Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State addressed the recent increase in ethnic tension in Nigeria, stating that politicians bear responsibility for exacerbating the situation.
The growing misunderstandings between ethnic groups, particularly the Yoruba and Igbo, peaked during the lead-up to the last general election.
Speaking at a lecture organized by the Freedom of Online Newspapers in Lagos on Tuesday, Governor Uzodinma, represented by Imo’s Commissioner for Information, Declan Emelumba, emphasized that Nigerians are generally willing to coexist peacefully.
However, he pointed out that ethnic sentiments deployed by politicians are the primary cause of tension among the citizens.
Governor Uzodinma praised President Bola Tinubu’s administration, expressing confidence that it would lead Nigeria towards progress and development. He stressed that good governance is the answer to the various challenges the country is facing.
He stated, “The truth needs to be told that our politicians and leaders are responsible for the recent upsurge in ethnic tensions across the country. And as some analysts put it, hunger, poverty, and insecurity do not spare any ethnic group. In the face of these communication challenges is a common language that all Nigerians, irrespective of tribe, tongue, or religion, do understand perfectly—good governance.”
Governor Uzodinma highlighted the importance of good governance in tackling poverty, unemployment, and insecurity, emphasizing that when it prevails, these challenges will diminish. He recalled a joint effort he made with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos earlier in the month, wherein they established a committee to foster a stronger relationship between the Yoruba and Igbo ethnic groups in the southwestern state, with the goal of easing ethnic tensions.
