THE NIGERIAN POLITICAL SYSTEM AND THE INFLUENCE OF ETHNICITY: A CASE STUDY OF IMO STATE, 2012–2023

CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION 1.1 Background to the Study Nigeria, being the most populous country on the African continent, possesses a complex political framework that is closely intertwined with its broad ethnic diversity. With over 250 ethnic groups, the nation’s political landscape is primarily influenced by the three major ethnic groups: the Hausa-Fulani, Yoruba, and Igbo, who play a dominant role in shaping both governmental and legislative affairs. Nigeria’s historical ethnic diversity has profoundly impacted its political dynamics, giving rise to a form of politics that is largely driven by ethnicity (Adebayo, 2023). This situation has had far-reaching implications for national cohesion, effective governance, and socio-economic progress. The political arrangement in Nigeria is heavily influenced by its colonial past, where the British administration employed a divide-and-rule policy that deepened existing ethnic divisions. The 1914 amalgamation of the Northern and Southern Protectorates marked a turning point, as it brought various ethnic communities together under a single administrative structure. However, this unification was largely a strategic move by the British to streamline governance and maximize economic gains, rather than to promote national unity (Ikelegbe, 2021). The legacy of colonialism left Nigeria with an overly centralized political system that failed to adequately reflect its ethnic heterogeneity. The regionalisation of politics, particularly following the enactment of the Richards Constitution in 1946, further reinforced ethnic consciousness (Adeoye, 2019). During this period, the three major ethnic groups established their political dominance in the Northern, Western, and Eastern regions respectively. This fostered a sense of rivalry and competition, thereby embedding ethnicity deeply within the political culture of the country—a trend that has persisted into Nigeria’s post-independence era (Suberu, 2022). Following independence in 1960, ethnic factors continued to play a decisive role in the country’s political trajectory. The First Republic (1960–1966) was marked by intense ethnic rivalries, culminating in the military coups of 1966 and the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970). The war, mainly involving the Eastern region—dominated by the Igbo—against the rest of the federation, underscored the deep-rooted ethnic tensions that had been simmering since independence (Adeoye, 2019). In the post-war era, successive military regimes attempted to address ethnic divisions through several mechanisms, including the creation of additional states and the introduction of the federal character principle. This principle, formally institutionalized by the 1979 Constitution, aimed to ensure fair representation of all ethnic groups in federal institutions. While this approach was intended to enhance unity, it inadvertently entrenched ethnicity as a key consideration in political appointments and resource distribution (Ogundiya & Baba, 2017). In contemporary Nigeria, ethnicity remains a central factor in political arrangements. Many political parties are formed along ethnic lines, with leaders leveraging ethnic loyalties to secure support. As a result, political allegiance is frequently tied more to ethnic identity than to ideology or national interest. This has contributed to a fragmented political system, where developmental policies and national strategies are often influenced by ethnic considerations (Mustapha, 2021). One notable manifestation of ethnic influence in Nigerian politics is the practice of "zoning"—an informal arrangement intended to rotate political power among various ethnic groups. Although designed to foster inclusion and prevent dominance by any one group, zoning has also intensified ethnic consciousness and limited the emergence of truly national political figures (Ikelegbe, 1996). Additionally, ethnicity plays a significant role in the electoral process, with politicians frequently mobilizing voters along ethnic lines. This often leads to violence and conflict during elections, as ethnic groups vie for dominance. Abdullahi (2015) notes that the 2011 and 2015 general elections witnessed heightened ethnic tensions, resulting in post-election violence in several parts of the country. Ethnic considerations continue to influence governance in Nigeria, affecting both the formulation and implementation of public policy. Although the federal character policy seeks inclusiveness, it has often led to the selection of candidates primarily based on ethnicity rather than merit. Consequently, this has contributed to inefficiencies and corruption in public institutions, as positions are sometimes filled by individuals who lack the required qualifications or experience (Abdullahi, 2015). Moreover, ethnic-based politics has exacerbated the marginalisation of minority groups, leaving them underrepresented in governance. This exclusion has fostered grievances and, in some cases, has sparked unrest, such as the insurgency in the Niger Delta and the agitation for Biafran independence (Suberu, 2022). In light of these issues, this research aims to critically examine Nigeria's political system and the role ethnicity plays within it, using Imo State as a case study from the period 2012 to 2023. 1.2 Statement of the Problem Ethnic considerations continue to exert significant influence over Nigeria's political framework, shaping the country’s system of governance, electoral conduct, and sense of national identity. Despite numerous efforts to manage ethnic plurality through mechanisms such as federalism and the federal character principle, ethnicity remains a dominant force, often contributing to political instability, administrative inefficiency, and social unrest (Adamu & Ocheni, 2016). A core challenge lies in the tendency of political actors to exploit ethnic sentiments for political gain, resulting in the emergence of parties and alliances formed primarily along ethnic lines rather than national ideologies. This has led to a fragmented political environment where ethnic loyalty often takes precedence over national priorities (Adeforiti, 2018). As a consequence, policy decisions and developmental initiatives frequently favor dominant ethnic groups, marginalizing minority communities and deepening feelings of exclusion. Additionally, the informal zoning arrangement within Nigeria's political landscape—meant to ensure equitable distribution of power—has further solidified ethnic identities. Although intended to curb ethnic domination, this practice has hindered the emergence of truly national leaders and perpetuated a governance system steeped in ethnicity (Ibrahim, 2023). Ethnic influences are also starkly evident in the electoral process, where elections are marred by ethnic mobilisation, violence, and inter-group conflict. These occurrences weaken the legitimacy of elections and pose a threat to Nigeria’s democratic integrity. The 2023 general elections exemplified this trend, with widespread reports of voter suppression and violence in regions where particular ethnic groups felt disenfranchised (Adeyemi, 2023). Furthermore, while the federal character policy aims to promote inclusion, it has often resulted in appointments based on ethnic considerations rather than competence. This has contributed to inefficiency in public administration and has been linked to persistent corruption, as individuals lacking appropriate qualifications are frequently appointed to key positions (Okeke, 2023). Given the ongoing challenges posed by ethnicity within the Nigerian political system, this study seeks to conduct an in-depth investigation of the issue, with a focus on Imo State from 2012 to 2023. 1.3 Research questions The following questions have been prepared to guide the study i.What is the historical evolution of Nigeria's political system? ii.What is the role of ethnicity in shaping political party formations and alliances in Nigeria? iii.What is the impact of ethnic-based politics on governance and policy-making in Nigeria? 1.4 Objectives of the study The broad objective of the study is the Nigerian political system and the influence of ethnicity: a case study of Imo state, 2012–2023 . The specific objectives is as follows i.To analyze the historical evolution of Nigeria's political system ii.To examine the role of ethnicity in shaping political party formations and alliances in Nigeria iii.To assess the impact of ethnic-based politics on governance and policy-making in Nigeria. 1.5 Research hypothesis The stated hypotheses have been formulated to further guide the study H0: Ethnicity does not have an impact on Nigeria political system Ha: Ethnicity does have an impact on Nigeria political system 1.6 Scope of the study The study focus on the Nigerian political system and the influence of ethnicity: a case study of Imo state, 2012–2023. Empirically, the study will analyze the historical evolution of Nigeria's political system, examine the role of ethnicity in shaping political party formations and alliances in Nigeria and assess the impact of ethnic-based politics on governance and policy-making in Nigeria. Geographically the study is delimited to Imo Sate. 1.7 significance of the study Findings of this study will guide policymakers in designing strategies that mitigate the negative effects of ethnic politics. By revealling the ways in which ethnicity can hinder national unity and effective governance, the study emphasizes the need for policies that promote inclusivity, equity, and national cohesion. Such policies are essential for creating a political environment that transcends ethnic divisions and fosters a sense of shared national identity. The study will also be significant to the academic community as it will contribute to existing literature, add to library resources and serve as a guide to future researcher. 1.8 Research methodology Research methodology deals with the different ways or methods the researcher applied in order to carry out the research as well as the instrument used for gathering the data. There are several research methodologies appropriate for answering the research questions. The type of research methodology used in this research to gather data and relevant information is the systematic review and historical research and the study will adopt descriptive method of data collection. This will involve the collection of materials from secondary sources, such as books, journal articles, magazines, internet sources, international and national conference proceedings, published and unpublished articles. 1.9 Definitions/Clarification of terms Political System: The structure and processes through which a country organizes, governs, and makes decisions. In the context of Nigeria, it refers to the federal system of government that includes the executive, legislative, and judicial branches, as well as the interactions between various levels of government (federal, state, and local). Ethnicity: A social construct that categorizes people based on shared cultural, linguistic, religious, or ancestral traits. In Nigeria, ethnicity often refers to the identification with one of the numerous ethnic groups, such as Hausa-Fulani, Yoruba, Igbo, and others, which play a significant role in social, economic, and political life. Federal Character Principle: A constitutional provision in Nigeria aimed at ensuring equitable representation of the country's diverse ethnic groups in federal institutions and appointments. The principle is designed to prevent the domination of any single ethnic group in government and promote national unity. Zoning Arrangement: An informal political practice in Nigeria where political offices, particularly the presidency, are rotated among different ethnic regions to promote power-sharing and reduce ethnic tensions. This arrangement is intended to ensure that no single ethnic group monopolizes political power. Ethnic-Based Politics: A form of politics in which political parties, candidates, and voters prioritize ethnic affiliations over national interests or ideological platforms. This often leads to the formation of political alliances based on ethnic considerations rather than policy objectives. National Unity: The sense of solidarity and cohesion among the diverse ethnic groups in Nigeria, fostering a collective national identity and purpose. National unity is often challenged by ethnic divisions and political competition along ethnic lines.