Ethnic Politics, Political Elite, and Regime Change in Nigeria

Abstract

Since the 1960s, intermittent social conflicts in Nigeria appear mostly linked to ethnic groups’ differences. Considering the importance of regime change in social and political stability, this article critically analyses the historic and dynamic role of the core political executive elite in the political system's stability. The article argues that ethnic politics persist in Nigeria based on the nature of interactions between political institutions, institution‐builders, and society. It asserts a contradictory link between deep‐rooted elite interests and popular preferences in ways that undermine orientations towards democracy. The empirical focus is on the composite nature of the core political executive elite analysed through their ethnic and educational backgrounds. It is observed that, although ethnic shocks are variously motivated, the atypical shape and inequity in power and role distribution at the highest levels of executive office‐holding stand out as a salient source and target of antagonism by ethnic groups. This finding has a paradoxical implication: deep‐seated economic and political interests of the elite play a diversionary role from the real causes of ethnic conflicts in Nigeria.

Modeling the Impacts of MSMEs’ Contributions to GDP and their Constraints on Unemployment: The Case of African’s Most Populous Country

“…Unemployment is perhaps one of the greatest challenges facing Nigeria as a population of about 191 million people (WDI, 2018). The country has passed through various monumental changes ranging from political reforms that have led the country through various regimes to include both military and civilian rules since her independence from Britain in 1960, to various degrees of socio-economic reforms which are often targeted at addressing macroeconomic variables like unemployment and inflation among others (Adebanwi and Obadare, 2010;Kifordu, 2011). However, it is still very clear that the nation has a long way to go as far as employment generation is concerned since most attempts at stemming the trend of unemployment in the country have yielded insufficient desired results over the years going by the current situation especially with regards to the level of youth unemployment vis-à-vis the entire population size, labor force, and the population growth rate (Folawewo and Adeboje, 2017;Akanle and Omotayo, 2019).…”

Citizen Responses to Ethnic Representation

“…Both scenarios provide rationales for country leaders increasing ethnic minority cabinet representation, and both scenarios rely to varying extents on the hope and promise that increased ethnic cabinet representation will improve citizen outgroup relations. Previous literature focuses on how elites use divisive rhetoric to exacerbate ethnic tensions and potentially to provoke civil conflict (Kaufman, 1996; Kifordu, 2011; Somer, 2001; van Dijk, 1992). While it has received significantly less attention, a calming effect of elite actions has also been posited.…”

Electoral Topography:A Contextual Perspective on Credible Election in Nigeria

“…For example, during the 1999 elections, Obasanjo was portrayed as "born again" in Abacha"s prison camp and a blessing to Nigeria (Obiyan and Amuwo 2013). In fact, for some scholars, the genesis of Nigerian political crises lies in the actual and potential usage of ethno-religious differences as instruments for political mobilisation,success and legitimacy (Kifordu 2011;Mustapha 2006;Suberu 1997 3 It is said that a hungry, malnourished and poor population is easy prey for elites" manipulations (Magaloni 2006). Bratton"s study (ed.…”