November 11, 2024 –
Abia State legislator Hon. Emeka Jacob Obioma has raised concerns over the pervasive influence of tribal and religious divisions in Nigeria, warning that these issues are eroding the nation's unity and jeopardizing its future.
Speaking to newsmen in Monday in Umuahia, the state capital, Hon. Obioma decried the escalation of tribal and religious sentiments, describing them as "cancerous" to Nigeria’s social fabric and overall stability.
Obioma, the Chief Whip of the House of Assembly representing Umuahia South constituency, emphasized that tribal and religious biases are fueling divisions and undermining critical national development efforts.
According to him, these sentiments often disrupt progress, create unnecessary conflicts, and lead to unfair distribution of resources across the country. He called for an urgent re-evaluation of how Nigerians view one another, stressing that prioritizing unity over division is essential for the country to reach its full potential.
The lawmaker’s concerns come amid rising ethnic and religious tensions in Nigeria, a country that is home to over 250 ethnic groups and a variety of faith communities. He lamented that these divisions are deeply embedded in the nation’s political structure, social institutions, and everyday interactions.
"Nigeria cannot move forward if we continue to let tribal and religious sentiments dictate our actions and policies. These sentiments are killing Nigeria,"
Hon. Obioma said during his address.
"When our leaders make decisions based on ethnicity or religion rather than merit and competence, it creates a system that marginalizes capable citizens and fuels bitterness and frustration."
Obioma stressed that the consequences of these divisions are visible across all sectors, including employment, education, healthcare, and security. He warned that the growing influence of identity politics has compromised governance, with some politicians using these sentiments to manipulate the masses for personal gain.
Hon. Obioma pointed to instances where tribalism and religious biases have led to unequal resource distribution and hindered regional development.
According to him, states and local governments often favor people from their own ethnic or religious backgrounds when allocating public resources, which has contributed to inequality and resentment among Nigeria’s diverse population.
He cited education and healthcare as two areas significantly impacted by these biases, where regions perceived to be aligned with those in power may receive greater funding and development efforts than others.
"We see it all the time, where regions are prioritized not because of need but because of ethnic and religious affiliations," Obioma said.
"This is not only unfair but also harmful to our nation's long-term development."
Obioma argued that a sense of national identity is crucial to achieving lasting peace and progress.
"If we continue like this, we are only deepening the divides among us. The future of Nigeria depends on how willing we are to set aside tribal and religious differences for the common good."
To address the growing problem, Hon. Obioma urged leaders at all levels to foster inclusiveness and fair representation in governance. He recommended constitutional reforms that would promote equal opportunities for all Nigerians, irrespective of ethnic or religious backgrounds.
In addition, he called on religious and traditional leaders to promote unity and discourage divisive rhetoric among their followers. According to him, these leaders hold significant influence and can play a vital role in shaping attitudes toward national unity.
"The responsibility does not lie with politicians alone," he noted. "Our religious and traditional leaders must also promote messages of peace, tolerance, and unity. Nigeria is for all of us, and we must work together to secure a better future."
Hon. Emeka Obioma’s appeal reflects the concerns of many Nigerians who are disillusioned with a system often perceived as biased and unfair. As calls for unity grow louder, there is cautious optimism that Nigerian leaders will take meaningful steps toward bridging the divides that threaten the country’s future stability.
The lawmaker’s plea is a reminder that Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity, not in its divisions.
As the country navigates this critical moment, leaders across sectors are urged to prioritize inclusivity and national cohesion, with the hope of building a Nigeria that transcends tribal and religious lines for the betterment of all its citizens.
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