Tribalism in Nigeria driven by leadership failure – Mahdi Shehu
Public Affairs Analyst Calls for National Unity in Nigeria
KANO—Public affairs analyst Mahdi Shehu urged stronger national unity in Nigeria on Sunday, attributing ongoing tribalism and division to failures in leadership. He delivered his address as the keynote speaker at the Arewa Twitter Connect event, which took place in Kano and was themed “Beyond the Timelines.”
In his remarks, Shehu linked many of the country’s challenges to “selfish leadership” and a lack of accountability, arguing these issues have significantly influenced citizen behavior over time. He highlighted that society can be categorized into different groups based on mindset and actions—some individuals are self-centered, while others prioritize broader societal interests.
Shehu referenced Greek philosophy on nation-building, identifying four categories of people:
- Fools, who focus solely on their own needs,
- Tribalists, who prioritize their tribe above all else,
- Citizens, who empathize with others and take action to improve collective well-being, and
- Idiots, who remain perpetual victims without seeking change.
He emphasized that leaders play a crucial role in shaping these attitudes, stating, “Who creates fools? It is leaders.” According to Shehu, when leaders exhibit greed and arrogance, it fosters a culture of selfishness among citizens. He cautioned that when leaders become wealthy while the populace suffers, it normalizes selfish behavior.
Shehu connected rising tribal sentiments to inadequate leadership, asserting that those in power often exacerbate divisions through their actions and decisions. He noted, “The same leaders who break laws, fail to keep promises, and steal resources are the ones creating tribalists and divided citizens.”
The analyst also condemned the societal protection of corrupt individuals, indicating that it undermines national unity. “As long as Nigeria continues to shelter criminals and corrupt people, the country will remain divided along ethnic and religious lines,” he stated.
Further, Shehu called on religious and traditional leaders to play a more active role in promoting integrity and accountability, rather than enabling corruption. He illustrated this point by highlighting instances where such leaders protect wrongdoers, referring to them as “sons.”
He encouraged Nigerians to adopt a stronger sense of citizenship, emphasizing empathy and responsibility for one another regardless of background. “Citizens are those who feel the pain of others as their own pain,” he affirmed.
In closing, Shehu urged reflection and unity among Nigerians, calling for a commitment to nation-building over division and self-interest.
