₦airaland Forum

Hello, greetings.

I've been on this platform for about 12 years. Since I came on board, one feature that has persistently ravaged this site is tribalism. Over the years, I've seen the creator of this site (Seun) and his moderators reel out several interventions to cub this menace, but in reality, these interventions remain grossly inadequate.

On this platform, I've seen people threaten each other with death, I've seen people wish an entire tribe gets destroyed or annihilated. When a sad event occurs, like a tragic loss of life, I've seen people look out for the tribe involved in this act - instead of concentrating on more relevant issues regarding the story.

When I see these things, I sometimes feel sad; other times, I feel scared. Each time I look at these actions, I see IGNORANT commenters "catching cruise" with absolutely nil regard on the possible outcome that may befall us.

But before I explore the outcome of tribalism, I'd like to ask a question: do we really hate ourselves?

I'm asking this question because the hatred that travels online is hardly present in the physical world. I remember when I was posted to Benue State as a youth corps member. I and a good friend (both of us from Southern Nigeria) were hosted by core northerners who are Muslims. We couldn't get our accommodation sorted out at the time, we were stranded. These people took us in, gave us a place to "live" (not just to sleep), and even FED US! Yes, they fed us. Each time they prepared their meals, they factored us into their plan. When we later proceeded to our PPA, I immediately made friends with one Ola, a gentleman (a Muslim too) from the South-West. Till this day, Ola and I still communicate. I have a very close friend who has been consistent in my life for about 16 years. We were classmates in the university (my first degree), we were both posted to Benue State for our national service (though different batches), he was my best man in 2014 when I got married. Importantly, through his guidance and persistence, I was able to find myself back to school where I eventually trained to become a medical doctor. In other words, this "Igbo man" was the instrument God used to guide me to what I consider my calling; and, yes, we were classmates in medical school.

In medical school, tribe never mattered. We hung out, looked out for each other, ate from the same plate, and supported each other. It didn't matter if anyone was Hausa, Igbo, or Yoruba. It didn't matter if anyone was a Christian or Muslim. What mattered was that we were humans, and we went out of our ways to support each other.

As a medical doctor, I've seen colleagues from one tribe work tirelessly (sometimes even going beyond the natural limits of their jobs) to save the life of a patient from another tribe.

My point is, in reality, I've met fantastic people from all parts of Nigeria. So far in my life, I'm yet to see tribal hatred play out within my space. In the last presidential election, some of my very close friends supported Tinubu. I supported Peter Obi. We would argue our political positions sometimes but this was never a problem. We are still friends today and life has been fine with us.

So, my question is, in reality, do Nigerians really hate ourselves so badly that we now wish death upon an entire tribe?

Well, I doubt!

Perhaps, the online tribal hatred we all see is a creation of those that benefit from the dividing lines that continue to keep us apart - the politicians. Have you not noticed that each time election approaches, tribal hatred climbs to an extreme level? I think this is all social engineering: the elite ignite and fan bad blood among the populace thereby ensuring that Nigerians never come together to agree on anything.

The most annoying thing, I think, are those people used by these paymasters to achieve this evil act. When I read some posts on Nairaland, I just let out a smile. Some posters here are so naive of the possible outcomes their activities may amount to. Some people here are just concerned about the naira that falls into their pockets. Some just want to massage their tribal egos, some are just being plain silly/stupid. Many, as they grow, will find the posts they make today repulsive (hopefully). Some, sadly, may take this idiotic mentality throughout their lives. Most importantly, many are cowards in real life: they cannot make similar statements in real life, they simply hide behind Nairaland's facelessness.

The Rwandan genocide (1994) was a culmination of decades of "division and incitement of hatred." In Ethiopia, Somalia, and other African societies, the effects of tribal conflicts are glaring.

Do Nairaland tribalists know that their online hatred may one day spill to reality? Do they know that if hatred is allowed to thrive in society, it may build up to a conflict? Do they know that this conflict may lead to the loss of lives and properties? Has any Nairaland tribalist witnessed a war? Can we all imagine what would happen to us all if things continue to get worse? Women raped, children killed or recruited, men tortured and killed, businesses, properties destroyed, no access to healthcare, diseases, poverty, anarchy, etc....

This is why I consider Nairaland tribalists ignorant, stupid, shortsighted, and foolish. Yes, you, if you are among those making tribalistic posts, you are a repulsive, stupid, ignorant, foolish, senseless, self-centred, irresponsible animal. You are a potential killer in genocidal scales as your actions may just lead to a large-scale conflict one day. You don't even know if your life, or the lives of your loved ones, may be the first price to be paid!!!

So, here is my conclusion: in reality, nope, we don't hate ourselves this much, not yet. In reality, Nigerians are lovely, hardworking, and dedicated. In reality, life is calm. But if this online tribal hatred is not addressed urgently and squarely, our reality may be redefined....in a negative way.

Good luck to us all.

Me that I actually love ibo girls...

You have spoken well, thanks for taking the time to put your thoughts about this disturbing trend in to words here. I do agree with you that many of those pushing hateful tribalistic threads and comments on Nairaland are paid malicious political actors. These are people working for APC with a mission to promote tribal hatred so as to divide Nigerians to ensure they don't hold the government accountable. They are also working tirelessly towards Tinubu's 2027 election victory. If you want to understand how pervasive this has gotten, just create a thread asking for an end to the unjust trial of Nnamdi Kanu. They will descend on you viciously within few minutes, they attack you, label you IPOB and manufacture all kinds of ridiculous lies to drive up tribal sentiments, they even go as far as liking their own posts multiple times just to influence other users opinion on the subject. I may be able to see through their deceptive antics but what about so many others who can't see them, they will sadly accept some of what these agents posts here as truth, falling for their divisive propaganda. It is indeed a dangerous precedence that will lead to real life negative consequences if left unchecked. I will advice all those who rely mainly on Nairaland for news update, to be mindful of the fact that there are so many sponsored political agents actively monitoring threads 247 and working tirelessly to promote their hateful divisive tribalistic agenda.

Please stop changing the narrative...

Tribal supremacy and Tribalism is one the reason corruption still thrive in this country...

Of course we hate ourselves

Nigerian civil war was all about Tribalism
Nigerian elections are all about Tribalism not good governance...

The tribalism has replaced merit

First find or search for the most qualified person from my Tribe first before considering other tribes

Even education, wealth and religion have been unable to cure Nigeria of Tribalism infact the most tribalism occurs in our universities or echoed more by the so called educated..

Our music and movie industry is all about Tribalism if you don't use a certain tribal to since or act movie, your music or movies won't get the desired promotion

Most people left or are leaving Nigeria because of Tribalism

Tribalism is worst than Racism

What members are doing here is a clear reflection of the larger society,we should stop pretending.
.
This is a foundation that has been laid down by the nationalist

If you're not an indigene,you cannot get a job or do business in some parts of the country.

Even the country's constitution promotes it,in form of quota system and the liikes

in a system where resources are scarce and perceived as unfairly distributed by FG, tribal identities become primary vehicle for accessing scarce resources (jobs, contracts, political appointments). It's not hate; it's resource competition encoded into identity.

the intensity of tribalism is often amplified by political actors who exploit these pre-existing group identities for their own gain. they don't hate their tribe; they leverage it. the narrative of us vs. them is a powerful tool for consolidating power and deflecting blame.

Without long story the answer is capital YES

@OP.

Yes we do is the short answer. Anonymous blogs online just reflects that reality far better since we can all speak the truth in heart here whereas most tend to be pretentious and dishonest when face to face with others.

You don't know those people are taught from kids by their parents to hate omo Igbos.

Tribalism exists when there’s no national identity.

Amalgamation took place but the people never truly became one. My land, my language, my traditions leaves no room for ‘our’.

A senator recently sponsored a bill to abolish state of origin and it was met with chaos.

At some point we need to tell ourselves the truth, aggregate or disintegrate? Let oduduwa have their republic, let Biafra have its, let’s arewa have its.

truthera:
You have spoken well, thanks for taking the time to put your thoughts about this disturbing trend in to words here. I do agree with you that many of those pushing hateful tribalistic threads and comments on Nairaland are paid malicious political actors. These are people working for APC with a mission to promote tribal hatred so as to divide Nigerians to ensure they don't hold the government accountable. They are also working tirelessly towards Tinubu's 2027 election victory. If you want to understand how pervasive this has gotten, just create a thread asking for an end to the unjust trial of Nnamdi Kanu. They will descend on you viciously within few minutes, they attack you, label you IPOB and manufacture all kinds of ridiculous lies to drive up tribal sentiments, they even go as far as liking their own posts multiple times just to influence other users opinion on the subject. I may be able to see through their deceptive antics but what about so many others who can't see them, they will sadly accept some of what these agents posts here as truth, falling for their divisive propaganda. It is indeed a dangerous precedence that will lead to real life negative consequences if left unchecked. I will advice all those who rely mainly on Nairaland for news update, to be mindful of the fact that there are so many sponsored political agents actively monitoring threads 247 and working tirelessly to promote their hateful divisive tribalistic agenda.

You're always over-emotional. Try to think before you rush to post.

The truth is many Nigerians are tribalistic in nature just that we try to manage it or pretend in reality in as much you dont trigger them to unleashed the tribalism in them,no tribe is saint in this.but here being a faceless forum it's easier to show the level of tribalism without any pretence,if I will answer you Yes.The online is just the manifest of the reality in which we try to cover up in order not to be tag bigot

It will be best let every major region stand on their own to practice their tribalism by themselves. A situation one is feeding from others wealth and still have the guts to be tribalistic, is insane.

OP I think we can start to fight back by enlightening other users about their antics. I've made a post about it here - https://www.nairaland.com/8550469/how-identify-political-tribalistic-malicious#137290030

Feel free to contribute.

TONYE001:
Hello, greetings.

I've been on this platform for about 12 years. Since I came on board, one feature that has persistently ravaged this site is tribalism. Over the years, I've seen the creator of this site (Seun) and his moderators reel out several interventions to cub this menace, but in reality, these interventions remain grossly inadequate.

On this platform, I've seen people threaten each other with death, I've seen people wish an entire tribe gets destroyed or annihilated. When a sad event occurs, like a tragic loss of life, I've seen people look out for the tribe involved in this act - instead of concentrating on more relevant issues regarding the story.

When I see these things, I sometimes feel sad; other times, I feel scared. Each time I look at these actions, I see IGNORANT commenters "catching cruise" with absolutely nil regard on the possible outcome that may befall us.

But before I explore the outcome of tribalism, I'd like to ask a question: do we really hate ourselves?

I'm asking this question because the hatred that travels online is hardly present in the physical world. I remember when I was posted to Benue State as a youth corps member. I and a good friend (both of us from Southern Nigeria) were hosted by core northerners who are Muslims. We couldn't get our accommodation sorted out at the time, we were stranded. These people took us in, gave us a place to "live" (not just to sleep), and even FED US! Yes, they fed us. Each time they prepared their meals, they factored us into their plan. When we later proceeded to our PPA, I immediately made friends with one Ola, a gentleman (a Muslim too) from the South-West. Till this day, Ola and I still communicate. I have a very close friend who has been consistent in my life for about 16 years. We were classmates in the university (my first degree), we were both posted to Benue State for our national service (though different batches), he was my best man in 2014 when I got married. Importantly, through his guidance and persistence, I was able to find myself back to school where I eventually trained to become a medical doctor. In other words, this "Igbo man" was the instrument God used to guide me to what I consider my calling; and, yes, we were classmates in medical school.

In medical school, tribe never mattered. We hung out, looked out for each other, ate from the same plate, and supported each other. It didn't matter if anyone was Hausa, Igbo, or Yoruba. It didn't matter if anyone was a Christian or Muslim. What mattered was that we were humans, and we went out of our ways to support each other.

As a medical doctor, I've seen colleagues from one tribe work tirelessly (sometimes even going beyond the natural limits of their jobs) to save the life of a patient from another tribe.

My point is, in reality, I've met fantastic people from all parts of Nigeria. So far in my life, I'm yet to see tribal hatred play out within my space. In the last presidential election, some of my very close friends supported Tinubu. I supported Peter Obi. We would argue our political positions sometimes but this was never a problem. We are still friends today and life has been fine with us.

So, my question is, in reality, do Nigerians really hate ourselves so badly that we now wish death upon an entire tribe?

Well, I doubt!

Perhaps, the online tribal hatred we all see is a creation of those that benefit from the dividing lines that continue to keep us apart - the politicians. Have you not noticed that each time election approaches, tribal hatred climbs to an extreme level? I think this is all social engineering: the elite ignite and fan bad blood among the populace thereby ensuring that Nigerians never come together to agree on anything.

The most annoying thing, I think, are those people used by these paymasters to achieve this evil act. When I read some posts on Nairaland, I just let out a smile. Some posters here are so naive of the possible outcomes their activities may amount to. Some people here are just concerned about the naira that falls into their pockets. Some just want to massage their tribal egos, some are just being plain silly/stupid. Many, as they grow, will find the posts they make today repulsive (hopefully). Some, sadly, may take this idiotic mentality throughout their lives. Most importantly, many are cowards in real life: they cannot make similar statements in real life, they simply hide behind Nairaland's facelessness.

The Rwandan genocide (1994) was a culmination of decades of "division and incitement of hatred." In Ethiopia, Somalia, and other African societies, the effects of tribal conflicts are glaring.

Do Nairaland tribalists know that their online hatred may one day spill to reality? Do they know that if hatred is allowed to thrive in society, it may build up to a conflict? Do they know that this conflict may lead to the loss of lives and properties? Has any Nairaland tribalist witnessed a war? Can we all imagine what would happen to us all if things continue to get worse? Women raped, children killed or recruited, men tortured and killed, businesses, properties destroyed, no access to healthcare, diseases, poverty, anarchy, etc....

This is why I consider Nairaland tribalists ignorant, stupid, shortsighted, and foolish. Yes, you, if you are among those making tribalistic posts, you are a repulsive, stupid, ignorant, foolish, senseless, self-centred, irresponsible animal. You are a potential killer in genocidal scales as your actions may just lead to a large-scale conflict one day. You don't even know if your life, or the lives of your loved ones, may be the first price to be paid!!!

So, here is my conclusion: in reality, nope, we don't hate ourselves this much, not yet. In reality, Nigerians are lovely, hardworking, and dedicated. In reality, life is calm. But if this online tribal hatred is not addressed urgently and squarely, our reality may be redefined....in a negative way.

Good luck to us all.

God bless your soul.

Unfortunately, I won't be pretentious in my response to your beautiful write up.


I don't know your tribe, so I will comment sincerely.


I grew up in the Southeast and later Southwest.

I have lots of Yorubas as friends, I am Igbo. We went to school together, did nysc together and are still friends till date. Most of us are doing very well now, some live abroad, some in Nigeria, we do chat and call once in a while due to distance.

I also have few Northern friends I met during NYSC because I have never lived or stepped my foot in the North beyond Abuja. My second home after Southeast have always been Lagos, Ogun.

From my personal experience, Yorubas used to be very wonderful and peaceful. We Igbos always praised Yorubas for this in the past even amongst us, we cherished Yorubas and reason we always supported anything Yoruba with our full chest and accepted Lagos, Ogun, Ondo (Ore) as our second homes without ever thinking that what is happening in Southwest now will ever happen.


The current spread of tribalism in Nigeria now which is now mostly between Yorubas and Igbos is caused by nobody else but Bola Tinubu and his Lagos APC.

Tinubu in his desperate effort to continue to confiscate Lagos state felt that the only people that will threaten his political grip on Lagos are the Igbos, brought the renewed division between Igbos and Yorubas.


They always used this style towards every Governorship election in Lagos.

When Fashola was contesting and Igbos supported Jimmy Agbaje the PDP candidate based on party affiliation, Lagos APC started campaigning against Jimmy Agbaje by calling him an Igbo candidate that is not real Omoluabi.


They did same when Jimmy Agbaje contested against Ambode.

Ambode performed very well and Igbos noticed it and started supporting Ambode, unfortunately Ambode fell out with Tinubu due to their internal politics, Igbos kept supporting Ambode not minding the disagreement between him and Tinubu. Next they started calling Ambodi an omo ale because Igbos were supporting him.


In 2019 when Buhari contested against Atiku, Igbos supported Atiku against Buhari.

Lagos APC intensified their campaign against Atiku and PDP, next Oba of Lagos, Oba Akiolu threatened to throw Igbos into the Lagoon if they refuse to vote for APC in Lagos, that one slid, everybody forgot about it.


2023 came, Igbos had a belief that it was ripe for an Igbo man to become President since almost every other tribe have produced President, they campaigned for PDP to microzone their ticket to Southeast, Atiku supported it but Wike said never that it should be thrown open, Atiku said if it will be thrown open that he would contest. They threw it open, Igbo youths via social media told Obi that if he accept to become Atiku running mate that nobody will vote him that he should contest even he fails. Peter Obi decamped from PDP and joined LP an unknown party.


Gradually LP gained traction as Obi joined.


Gradually LP displaced PDP as the second most popular party in Lagos.

2023 Presidential election was drawing closer, APC Lagos from nowhere manufactured the mantra of Lagos is a no man's land that have existed for decades without anybody bothering or paying attention to it. They started saying Igbos wants to take over Lagos that Yorubas must rise up and stop Igbos. Gradually it gained tempo, and it became worst after Peter Obi won Tinubu in Lagos.


Lagos APC then went on rampage ahead of the Governorship election calling LP Governorship candidate an Igbo guy Shinedu that wants to help Igbos take over Lagos that Yorubas must stop them at all cost.


MC Oluomo threatened Igbos not to come out to vote.


This was how the whole thing became more profound and as Tinubu was sworn in, instead of him to douse the tension as the father of the nation being the President, with his actions he emboldened the tribalists from Southwest by appointing mostly Yorubas and sidelining Igbos and Lagos state government on their side intensified anti-Igbo policies.



So my brother it is Bola Tinubu that is polarizing Nigeria, especially between Yorubas and Igbos, nobody else. Let's call a spade a spade

Xbox2005:
The truth is many Nigerians are tribalistic in nature just that we try to manage it or pretend in reality in as much you dont trigger them to unleashed the tribalism in them,no tribe is saint in this.but here being a faceless forum it's easier to show the level of tribalism without any pretence,if I will answer you Yes.The online is just the manifest of the reality in which we try to cover up in order not to be tag bigot

I don't know about this. I don't think MANY Nigerians are tribalistic.

I agree that tribalism has infiltrated into the Nigerian leadership structure. We now have tribalistic heads in parastatals affecting admissions into schools, employments, and other governmental actions. This is just sad. It's why I strongly think state of origin should be entirely abolished. Truth is, tribal hatred is on a path that may lead to self destruction. Nigerians, therefore, must act quickly and decisively to stall this progression otherwise ours will be another tale demonstrating the dire consequences of tribalism. Our leaders know this; their greed is just beclouding their judgement. They are rather focused on the billions they will loot for themselves and their family members, the properties they will acquire here and in the abroad. Greed!

And, let me put it out here: by leaders, I do not mean the APC only. The PDP and politicians from all zones in Nigeria are culprits.

The day we are lucky to have a leader that can look beyond immediate gains for future profits, a leader that will not prioritize his pockets and throat, that day will define Nigerian's rebirth.

The truth is that you won't understand tribalism till you lived in the south west part of Nigeria. In the north, you'll feel the full weight of religion but tribalism is solely a south west thing.

It was only in south west that people are denied jobs or houses based in tribal affliction.

franchasng:
God bless your soul.

Unfortunately, I won't be pretentious in my response to your beautiful write up.


I don't know your tribe, so I will comment sincerely.


I grew up in the Southeast and later Southwest.

I have lots of Yorubas as friends, I am Igbo. We went to school together, did nysc together and are still friends till date. Most of us are doing very well now, some live abroad, some in Nigeria, we do chat and call once in a while due to distance.

I also have few Northern friends I met during NYSC because I have never lived or stepped my foot in the North beyond Abuja. My second home after Southeast have always been Lagos, Ogun.

From my personal experience, Yorubas used to be very wonderful and peaceful. We Igbos always praised Yorubas for this in the past even amongst us, we cherished Yorubas and reason we always supported anything Yoruba with our full chest and accepted Lagos, Ogun, Ondo (Ore) as our second homes without ever thinking that what is happening in Southwest now will ever happen.


The current spread of tribalism in Nigeria now which is now mostly between Yorubas and Igbos is caused by nobody else but Bola Tinubu and his Lagos APC.

Tinubu in his desperate effort to continue to confiscate Lagos state felt that the only people that will threaten his political grip on Lagos are the Igbos, brought the renewed division between Igbos and Yorubas.


They always used this style towards every Governorship election in Lagos.

When Fashola was contesting and Igbos supported Jimmy Agbaje the PDP candidate based on party affiliation, Lagos APC started campaigning against Jimmy Agbaje by calling him an Igbo candidate that is not real Omoluabi.


They did same when Jimmy Agbaje contested against Ambode.

Ambode performed very well and Igbos noticed it and started supporting Ambode, unfortunately Ambode fell out with Tinubu due to their internal politics, Igbos kept supporting Ambode not minding the disagreement between him and Tinubu. Next they started calling Ambodi an omo ale because Igbos were supporting him.


In 2019 when Buhari contested against Atiku, Igbos supported Atiku against Buhari.

Lagos APC intensified their campaign against Atiku and PDP, next Oba of Lagos, Oba Akiolu threatened to throw Igbos into the Lagoon if they refuse to vote for APC in Lagos, that one slid, everybody forgot about it.


2023 came, Igbos had a belief that it was ripe for an Igbo man to become President since almost every other tribe have produced President, they campaigned for PDP to microzone their ticket to Southeast, Atiku supported it but Wike said never that it should be thrown open, Atiku said if it will be thrown open that he would contest. They threw it open, Igbo youths via social media told Obi that if he accept to become Atiku running mate that nobody will vote him that he should contest even he fails. Peter Obi decamped from PDP and joined LP an unknown party.


Gradually LP gained traction as Obi joined.


Gradually LP displaced PDP as the second most popular party in Lagos.

2023 Presidential election was drawing closer, APC Lagos from nowhere manufactured the mantra of Lagos is a no man's land that have existed for decades without anybody bothering or paying attention to it. They started saying Igbos wants to take over Lagos that Yorubas must rise up and stop Igbos. Gradually it gained tempo, and it became worst after Peter Obi won Tinubu in Lagos.


Lagos APC then went on rampage ahead of the Governorship election calling LP Governorship candidate an Igbo guy Shinedu that wants to help Igbos take over Lagos that Yorubas must stop them at all cost.


MC Oluomo threatened Igbos not to come out to vote.


This was how the whole thing became more profound and as Tinubu was sworn in, instead of him to douse the tension as the father of the nation being the President, with his actions he emboldened the tribalists from Southwest by appointing mostly Yorubas and sidelining Igbos and Lagos state government on their side intensified anti-Igbo policies.



So my brother it is Bola Tinubu that is polarizing Nigeria, especially between Yorubas and Igbos, nobody else. Let's call a spade a spade

Your narrative confirms how politicians and their actors engineer social behaviour for their benefits.

Your post, however, passes the impression that it is only the Yorubas that have fueled tribalism. The sad truth is, no region is innocent - whether Hausa, Igbo, or Yoruba. Even minority tribes aren't left out. In Rivers State, for example, not too long ago, the government employed health workers. I noticed that the emphasis was the state of origin of participants. They were looking for qualified health workers from the state. Once you are from Rivers State and you are qualified, you are almost 95% sure of getting the job. I began to wonder what the case would be for those that are not from the state but are qualified. Note that this style of employment occurs across every state (North, North Central, South South, South East, South West, North East and North West) and it continues to be senseless to me. This is why I strongly propose that state of origin should be erased.

So, sir, no tribe is innocent. No region is innocent. I just don't want this thread to turn into another tribal war, and this is why I refused to call names/throw accusations in the original post.

We all must accept that we are guilty of this, and we must immediately begin to make efforts to do better.

Okay, no hatred only trying to outsmarted each other on the dinning table

TONYE001:
I don't know about this. I don't think MANY Nigerians are tribalistic.

I agree that tribalism has infiltrated into the Nigerian leadership structure. We now have tribalistic heads in parastatals affecting admissions into schools, employments, and other governmental actions. This is just sad. It's why I strongly think state of origin should be entirely abolished. Truth is, tribal hatred is on a path that may lead to self destruction. Nigerians, therefore, must act quickly and decisively to stall this progression otherwise ours will be another tale demonstrating the dire consequences of tribalism. Our leaders know this; their greed is just beclouding their judgement. They are rather focused on the billions they will loot for themselves and their family members, the properties they will acquire here and in the abroad. Greed!

And, let me put it out here: by leaders, I do not mean the APC only. The PDP and politicians from all zones in Nigeria are culprits.

The day we are lucky to have a leader that can look beyond immediate gains for future profits, a leader that will not prioritize his pockets and throat, that day will define Nigerian's rebirth.

In as much as you put forward good ideas,but the reality is that,this issue has eaten so deep in the minds of our people.For me,I suggest the country should disintegrate into regions with similar sense of belonging.

People's behaviour can make you avoid, detest, and protect yourselves from them, it's normal to avoid and distance yourself from bad minds and evil people.

dederocs:
People's behaviour can make you avoid, detest, and protect yourselves from them, it's normal to avoid and distance yourself from bad minds and evil people.

True.

But, uhhhhh, you also know that while Mr. A considers Mr. B a "bad mind", Mr. C may also be considering Mr. A a "bad mind" too.

So, no one is innocent.

I like to compare this analogy with people praying for their enemies to fall and die. I often ask if they know that they just may be another person's enemy, and that person may be in church at the same time praying for their enemies to fall and die.

Thankfully, the wisdom of God Almighty is far above man's comprehension....no enemy dey fall and die, we just end up wasting our time shouting and sweating.

illicit:
Me that I actually love ibo girls...

I can’t even dare to live without Ewedu while Bisi sits around me 😁

We hate ourselves

TONYE001:
True.

But, uhhhhh, you also know that while Mr. A considers Mr. B a "bad mind", Mr. C may also be considering Mr. A a "bad mind" too.

So, no one is innocent.

I like to compare this analogy with people praying for their enemies to fall and die. I often ask if they know that they just may be another person's enemy, and that person may be in church at the same time praying for their enemies to fall and die.

Thankfully, the wisdom of God Almighty is far above man's comprehension....no enemy dey fall and die, we just end up wasting our time shouting and sweating.

I don't pray for enemies to fall and die, I avoid, blacklist and never show them love...am not religious fanatic, am a realist.

TONYE001:
Hello, greetings.

I've been on this platform for about 12 years. Since I came on board, one feature that has persistently ravaged this site is tribalism. Over the years, I've seen the creator of this site (Seun) and his moderators reel out several interventions to cub this menace, but in reality, these interventions remain grossly inadequate.

On this platform, I've seen people threaten each other with death, I've seen people wish an entire tribe gets destroyed or annihilated. When a sad event occurs, like a tragic loss of life, I've seen people look out for the tribe involved in this act - instead of concentrating on more relevant issues regarding the story.

When I see these things, I sometimes feel sad; other times, I feel scared. Each time I look at these actions, I see IGNORANT commenters "catching cruise" with absolutely nil regard on the possible outcome that may befall us.

But before I explore the outcome of tribalism, I'd like to ask a question: do we really hate ourselves?

I'm asking this question because the hatred that travels online is hardly present in the physical world. I remember when I was posted to Benue State as a youth corps member. I and a good friend (both of us from Southern Nigeria) were hosted by core northerners who are Muslims. We couldn't get our accommodation sorted out at the time, we were stranded. These people took us in, gave us a place to "live" (not just to sleep), and even FED US! Yes, they fed us. Each time they prepared their meals, they factored us into their plan. When we later proceeded to our PPA, I immediately made friends with one Ola, a gentleman (a Muslim too) from the South-West. Till this day, Ola and I still communicate. I have a very close friend who has been consistent in my life for about 16 years. We were classmates in the university (my first degree), we were both posted to Benue State for our national service (though different batches), he was my best man in 2014 when I got married. Importantly, through his guidance and persistence, I was able to find myself back to school where I eventually trained to become a medical doctor. In other words, this "Igbo man" was the instrument God used to guide me to what I consider my calling; and, yes, we were classmates in medical school.

In medical school, tribe never mattered. We hung out, looked out for each other, ate from the same plate, and supported each other. It didn't matter if anyone was Hausa, Igbo, or Yoruba. It didn't matter if anyone was a Christian or Muslim. What mattered was that we were humans, and we went out of our ways to support each other.

As a medical doctor, I've seen colleagues from one tribe work tirelessly (sometimes even going beyond the natural limits of their jobs) to save the life of a patient from another tribe.

My point is, in reality, I've met fantastic people from all parts of Nigeria. So far in my life, I'm yet to see tribal hatred play out within my space. In the last presidential election, some of my very close friends supported Tinubu. I supported Peter Obi. We would argue our political positions sometimes but this was never a problem. We are still friends today and life has been fine with us.

So, my question is, in reality, do Nigerians really hate ourselves so badly that we now wish death upon an entire tribe?

Well, I doubt!

Perhaps, the online tribal hatred we all see is a creation of those that benefit from the dividing lines that continue to keep us apart - the politicians. Have you not noticed that each time election approaches, tribal hatred climbs to an extreme level? I think this is all social engineering: the elite ignite and fan bad blood among the populace thereby ensuring that Nigerians never come together to agree on anything.

The most annoying thing, I think, are those people used by these paymasters to achieve this evil act. When I read some posts on Nairaland, I just let out a smile. Some posters here are so naive of the possible outcomes their activities may amount to. Some people here are just concerned about the naira that falls into their pockets. Some just want to massage their tribal egos, some are just being plain silly/stupid. Many, as they grow, will find the posts they make today repulsive (hopefully). Some, sadly, may take this idiotic mentality throughout their lives. Most importantly, many are cowards in real life: they cannot make similar statements in real life, they simply hide behind Nairaland's facelessness.

The Rwandan genocide (1994) was a culmination of decades of "division and incitement of hatred." In Ethiopia, Somalia, and other African societies, the effects of tribal conflicts are glaring.

Do Nairaland tribalists know that their online hatred may one day spill to reality? Do they know that if hatred is allowed to thrive in society, it may build up to a conflict? Do they know that this conflict may lead to the loss of lives and properties? Has any Nairaland tribalist witnessed a war? Can we all imagine what would happen to us all if things continue to get worse? Women raped, children killed or recruited, men tortured and killed, businesses, properties destroyed, no access to healthcare, diseases, poverty, anarchy, etc....

This is why I consider Nairaland tribalists ignorant, stupid, shortsighted, and foolish. Yes, you, if you are among those making tribalistic posts, you are a repulsive, stupid, ignorant, foolish, senseless, self-centred, irresponsible animal. You are a potential killer in genocidal scales as your actions may just lead to a large-scale conflict one day. You don't even know if your life, or the lives of your loved ones, may be the first price to be paid!!!

So, here is my conclusion: in reality, nope, we don't hate ourselves this much, not yet. In reality, Nigerians are lovely, hardworking, and dedicated. In reality, life is calm. But if this online tribal hatred is not addressed urgently and squarely, our reality may be redefined....in a negative way.

Good luck to us all.

Bro you ask question, still answer yourself.

Ok sha let me wait for them to answer first

All those mentioning politicians or APC etc are wrong. What we are seeing today started online and on Nairaland in particular a long time ago.

Politicians didn't start anything, it was started here on Nairaland by a small group of people and encouraged on by their fellow ethnic bigots.

The OP said all the right things but unfortunately there has been countless people with similar opinions long before this became an issue on Nairaland. But People like the OP were labeled " unity beggars"

I was here when it started, I can even give you a few monikers, we told them the repercussions but right now my attitude is I don't care.

franchasng:
God bless your soul.

Unfortunately, I won't be pretentious in my response to your beautiful write up.


I don't know your tribe, so I will comment sincerely.


I grew up in the Southeast and later Southwest.

I have lots of Yorubas as friends, I am Igbo. We went to school together, did nysc together and are still friends till date. Most of us are doing very well now, some live abroad, some in Nigeria, we do chat and call once in a while due to distance.

I also have few Northern friends I met during NYSC because I have never lived or stepped my foot in the North beyond Abuja. My second home after Southeast have always been Lagos, Ogun.

From my personal experience, Yorubas used to be very wonderful and peaceful. We Igbos always praised Yorubas for this in the past even amongst us, we cherished Yorubas and reason we always supported anything Yoruba with our full chest and accepted Lagos, Ogun, Ondo (Ore) as our second homes without ever thinking that what is happening in Southwest now will ever happen.


The current spread of tribalism in Nigeria now which is now mostly between Yorubas and Igbos is caused by nobody else but Bola Tinubu and his Lagos APC.

Tinubu in his desperate effort to continue to confiscate Lagos state felt that the only people that will threaten his political grip on Lagos are the Igbos, brought the renewed division between Igbos and Yorubas.


They always used this style towards every Governorship election in Lagos.

When Fashola was contesting and Igbos supported Jimmy Agbaje the PDP candidate based on party affiliation, Lagos APC started campaigning against Jimmy Agbaje by calling him an Igbo candidate that is not real Omoluabi.


They did same when Jimmy Agbaje contested against Ambode.

Ambode performed very well and Igbos noticed it and started supporting Ambode, unfortunately Ambode fell out with Tinubu due to their internal politics, Igbos kept supporting Ambode not minding the disagreement between him and Tinubu. Next they started calling Ambodi an omo ale because Igbos were supporting him.


In 2019 when Buhari contested against Atiku, Igbos supported Atiku against Buhari.

Lagos APC intensified their campaign against Atiku and PDP, next Oba of Lagos, Oba Akiolu threatened to throw Igbos into the Lagoon if they refuse to vote for APC in Lagos, that one slid, everybody forgot about it.


2023 came, Igbos had a belief that it was ripe for an Igbo man to become President since almost every other tribe have produced President, they campaigned for PDP to microzone their ticket to Southeast, Atiku supported it but Wike said never that it should be thrown open, Atiku said if it will be thrown open that he would contest. They threw it open, Igbo youths via social media told Obi that if he accept to become Atiku running mate that nobody will vote him that he should contest even he fails. Peter Obi decamped from PDP and joined LP an unknown party.


Gradually LP gained traction as Obi joined.


Gradually LP displaced PDP as the second most popular party in Lagos.

2023 Presidential election was drawing closer, APC Lagos from nowhere manufactured the mantra of Lagos is a no man's land that have existed for decades without anybody bothering or paying attention to it. They started saying Igbos wants to take over Lagos that Yorubas must rise up and stop Igbos. Gradually it gained tempo, and it became worst after Peter Obi won Tinubu in Lagos.


Lagos APC then went on rampage ahead of the Governorship election calling LP Governorship candidate an Igbo guy Shinedu that wants to help Igbos take over Lagos that Yorubas must stop them at all cost.


MC Oluomo threatened Igbos not to come out to vote.


This was how the whole thing became more profound and as Tinubu was sworn in, instead of him to douse the tension as the father of the nation being the President, with his actions he emboldened the tribalists from Southwest by appointing mostly Yorubas and sidelining Igbos and Lagos state government on their side intensified anti-Igbo policies.



So my brother it is Bola Tinubu that is polarizing Nigeria, especially between Yorubas and Igbos, nobody else. Let's call a spade a spade

This is truth and nothing but truth.

But they have twisted everything.

Just days ago, a silly girl was marketing a brand and insulted igbos in the video, just like that, no provocation nothing.

After public outcry, she went ahead to do a cut and join apology, but the retail business she did advert for has yet to discociate with the bigotry she did....they support her.

Go to twitter and see yorubas supporting her, including people with PHD, swimming in bigotry and tribalism

But some evil godforsaken children will come out and blame Igbos for causing trouble.

@OP The founding fathers of Nigeria wanted a truly free and independent nation where all tribes could live and work together as one.. except the Igbos of course, they had hidden agenda to dominate and re-colonize other ethnic groups in Nigeria.

I don't know how well you know history.. the NCNC that a Yoruba man called Herbert Macaulay founded was handed to Nnamdi Azikiwe to be the leader, but guess what he did, he turned it tribal and made his igbo kins the key figures of the party, completely shutting the Yorubas out.

Igbos lived freely in every part of Nigeria until the unfortunate bloody coup of 15 January, 1966 by mostly Igbo soldiers that eventually ripped Nigeria apart.. The environment was tense, the Northern elites were trying to pacify their people not to start violence, same with the West but guess what Igbos did.. they started rejoicing, rolling out drums, printing provocative pamphlets and flyers to celebrate Nzeogwu's murder of Ahmadu Bello and his pregnant wife. You know what followed.
So imagine a people who could celebrate the death of prominent leaders of other tribes all of a sudden trying to play victims.

You better use your head.. the fact that there is "tribe" alone means "tribalism" is inevitable.. depends on how you try to justify it. For me, tribalism is to wake my docile people from slumber, we're destined for greatness not this mediocrity we've confined ourselves to. I desire to see Professors, Medical Doctors, Engineers etc. of Yoruba origin in years to come by making sure our people are prioritized just like other tribes are doing. I desire greatness for my people, not like Kanu and his followers who called for attacks and destruction of other tribes and their properties (those are the real purveyors of negative tribalism and ethnic bigotry).

TONYE001:
Your narrative confirms how politicians and their actors engineer social behaviour for their benefits.

Your post, however, passes the impression that it is only the Yorubas that have fueled tribalism. The sad truth is, no region is innocent - whether Hausa, Igbo, or Yoruba. Even minority tribes aren't left out. In Rivers State, for example, not too long ago, the government employed health workers. I noticed that the emphasis was the state of origin of participants. They were looking for qualified health workers from the state. Once you are from Rivers State and you are qualified, you are almost 95% sure of getting the job. I began to wonder what the case would be for those that are not from the state but are qualified. Note that this style of employment occurs across every state (North, North Central, South South, South East, South West, North East and North West) and it continues to be senseless to me. This is why I strongly propose that state of origin should be erased.

So, sir, no tribe is innocent. No region is innocent. I just don't want this thread to turn into another tribal war, and this is why I refused to call names/throw accusations in the original post.

We all must accept that we are guilty of this, and we must immediately begin to make efforts to do better.

My brother, in every issue in life, there is always the aggressor, the person fueling and the responders.

In the current wave of tribal division that is ravaging Southern Nigeria currently, it is being fueled by Bola Tinubu's political antics that emboldened Yorubas to see his reign as a conquer of the Igbos and a time to suppress Igbos and send them back to their region away from Lagos state. That is the truth of the current situation.


It was never like this in the past, we all accommodated and overlooked our individual weaknesses and errors in the past and forged ahead until Tinubu's divisive politics happened


And why I capitalize on Yorubas as the culprits is because it is in the hands of Tinubu and Yorubas to douse the current division and tribalism because they are the ones holding the government power and authority. If Peter Obi was the President and this persisted, I will blame it on Peter Obi if he refused to act.


Bola Tinubu's actions can end this division and tribalism currently rampaging Nigeria.


But unfortunately Tinubu's policies and actions is rather emboldening Yoruba tribalism actors to see his regime as a defeat of the Igbos and a time to send strong message to Igbos that Yorubas have conquered. That is it.


Again how do you know the person that want peace when there is disagreement between two people? The person that still reaches out to you and still visits your house and still lives with you. But the person that cancels your house and swear never to visit your house or relate with you after disagreement is the bad person here.


Despite decades of political marginalization of Igbos, Igbos still hold no grudge against any tribe or region, reason they still happily find anywhere they find themselves in Nigeria as a second home and contribute in building and developing that place without any prejudice unlike Yorubas who always swear by sango that nothing will take them to Southeast and that even if they go there that they will never build house or invest there, some claim Igbos don't sell land to none Igbos which is pure lies cos I have said it several times that I have lands in different Southeast state capitals and looking for any buyer from anywhere.


The only land Igbos don't sell even to fellow Igbos is their ancestral home land where their father and grandfathers lived or are buried cos in Igbos tradition it's considered a taboo, but any other land in any Igbo city or town is up for sale to highest bidder.


And funny enough even some Igbos like some of us who no longer live in Nigeria or something still happily invest in Lagos, Ogun by happily buying lands and building and establishing businesses with joy until 2023 that Tinubu's tribal divisive politics happened that many Igbos outside Nigeria are now becoming scared.


Now tell me how many Yorubas that live outside Nigeria that ever consider investing in Southeast or building house in Southeast? NONE! Because they have negative and bad mindset about Igbos even from childhood that they refused to let go and always carry about unlike Igbos that harbor nothing like that for any tribe to the extent of canceling investing in their region.


Yes Igbos have their own plenty shortcomings and flaws, but you see the current tribalism and division in Nigeria, it is fueled by Bola Tinubu's tribalism politics starting from Lagos state.


We must call a spade a spade

TONYE001:
Hello, greetings.

I've been on this platform for about 12 years. Since I came on board, one feature that has persistently ravaged this site is tribalism. Over the years, I've seen the creator of this site (Seun) and his moderators reel out several interventions to cub this menace, but in reality, these interventions remain grossly inadequate.

On this platform, I've seen people threaten each other with death, I've seen people wish an entire tribe gets destroyed or annihilated. When a sad event occurs, like a tragic loss of life, I've seen people look out for the tribe involved in this act - instead of concentrating on more relevant issues regarding the story.

When I see these things, I sometimes feel sad; other times, I feel scared. Each time I look at these actions, I see IGNORANT commenters "catching cruise" with absolutely nil regard on the possible outcome that may befall us.

But before I explore the outcome of tribalism, I'd like to ask a question: do we really hate ourselves?

I'm asking this question because the hatred that travels online is hardly present in the physical world. I remember when I was posted to Benue State as a youth corps member. I and a good friend (both of us from Southern Nigeria) were hosted by core northerners who are Muslims. We couldn't get our accommodation sorted out at the time, we were stranded. These people took us in, gave us a place to "live" (not just to sleep), and even FED US! Yes, they fed us. Each time they prepared their meals, they factored us into their plan. When we later proceeded to our PPA, I immediately made friends with one Ola, a gentleman (a Muslim too) from the South-West. Till this day, Ola and I still communicate. I have a very close friend who has been consistent in my life for about 16 years. We were classmates in the university (my first degree), we were both posted to Benue State for our national service (though different batches), he was my best man in 2014 when I got married. Importantly, through his guidance and persistence, I was able to find myself back to school where I eventually trained to become a medical doctor. In other words, this "Igbo man" was the instrument God used to guide me to what I consider my calling; and, yes, we were classmates in medical school.

In medical school, tribe never mattered. We hung out, looked out for each other, ate from the same plate, and supported each other. It didn't matter if anyone was Hausa, Igbo, or Yoruba. It didn't matter if anyone was a Christian or Muslim. What mattered was that we were humans, and we went out of our ways to support each other.

As a medical doctor, I've seen colleagues from one tribe work tirelessly (sometimes even going beyond the natural limits of their jobs) to save the life of a patient from another tribe.

My point is, in reality, I've met fantastic people from all parts of Nigeria. So far in my life, I'm yet to see tribal hatred play out within my space. In the last presidential election, some of my very close friends supported Tinubu. I supported Peter Obi. We would argue our political positions sometimes but this was never a problem. We are still friends today and life has been fine with us.

So, my question is, in reality, do Nigerians really hate ourselves so badly that we now wish death upon an entire tribe?

Well, I doubt!

Perhaps, the online tribal hatred we all see is a creation of those that benefit from the dividing lines that continue to keep us apart - the politicians. Have you not noticed that each time election approaches, tribal hatred climbs to an extreme level? I think this is all social engineering: the elite ignite and fan bad blood among the populace thereby ensuring that Nigerians never come together to agree on anything.

The most annoying thing, I think, are those people used by these paymasters to achieve this evil act. When I read some posts on Nairaland, I just let out a smile. Some posters here are so naive of the possible outcomes their activities may amount to. Some people here are just concerned about the naira that falls into their pockets. Some just want to massage their tribal egos, some are just being plain silly/stupid. Many, as they grow, will find the posts they make today repulsive (hopefully). Some, sadly, may take this idiotic mentality throughout their lives. Most importantly, many are cowards in real life: they cannot make similar statements in real life, they simply hide behind Nairaland's facelessness.

The Rwandan genocide (1994) was a culmination of decades of "division and incitement of hatred." In Ethiopia, Somalia, and other African societies, the effects of tribal conflicts are glaring.

Do Nairaland tribalists know that their online hatred may one day spill to reality? Do they know that if hatred is allowed to thrive in society, it may build up to a conflict? Do they know that this conflict may lead to the loss of lives and properties? Has any Nairaland tribalist witnessed a war? Can we all imagine what would happen to us all if things continue to get worse? Women raped, children killed or recruited, men tortured and killed, businesses, properties destroyed, no access to healthcare, diseases, poverty, anarchy, etc....

This is why I consider Nairaland tribalists ignorant, stupid, shortsighted, and foolish. Yes, you, if you are among those making tribalistic posts, you are a repulsive, stupid, ignorant, foolish, senseless, self-centred, irresponsible animal. You are a potential killer in genocidal scales as your actions may just lead to a large-scale conflict one day. You don't even know if your life, or the lives of your loved ones, may be the first price to be paid!!!

So, here is my conclusion: in reality, nope, we don't hate ourselves this much, not yet. In reality, Nigerians are lovely, hardworking, and dedicated. In reality, life is calm. But if this online tribal hatred is not addressed urgently and squarely, our reality may be redefined....in a negative way.

Good luck to us all.

People feeling more comfortable with their tribes men is natural even in Diversity Theories but hating other tribes is what we learnt with the aid of Politicians.

And the selfish politicians are still on it.

Normally, you can use tribal sentiments to rally your people to vote for you, but then, once you win, you are supposed to douse the tension and become neutral, not making tribalism your key policy.



Tinubu and Lagos APC used tribal divisive politics to gain political power and control from federal to state level, they are supposed to be on the neutral side doing everything possible to reunite the nation haven achieved their goal which is gain political power and control, not using the political power they have gained to advance and embolden tribalists and division thinking it's awesome.


Tinubu ought to have called everybody to order as soon as he was sworn in. He should have done everything to prove he only used tribalism card as a political tactics and not to capitalize on it to make it look like it's now a war where Yorubas now feel they have defeated and conquered Igbos and must use the political power they gained to deal with Igbos and put them in their place, that's the root cause of the issue today.


Of course you should expect Igbos who felt they were robbed of 2023 Presidential election to cry, wail and talk, you that won should be calming them down and reassuring them that we are all together that they should let go and not using the federal and political power to clampdown on Igbos and further marginalize and punish Igbos, it will come with consequences.


Anybody that thinks that Igbos a tribe of over 45million people both in and outside Nigeria spread all over the world can be taken for a ride without serious consequences is nothing but a joker.


Tinubu and his team need to do something fast before we witness Sudan and Somali in Nigeria.


And anybody thinking if Nigeria descends into crises that his region or place will be safe or that it will be like 1967 is just daydreaming cos things and situations have changed completely, so the narrative won't be the same, nobody can predict how it will end so the better we all borrow sense the better for all of us.


And the buck stops at Tinubu's table to douse this tribalism tension before it swallows Nigeria under his watch