Community Relations: A Complex Issue In Nigeria

By: Akinbobola Vera Ajoke

In Nigeria, community relations have always been a sensitive issue, especially in recent years with the rising cases of ethnic and religious conflicts. The country, with its diverse cultures and traditions, is home to over 250 ethnic groups, each with its unique customs and beliefs. However, the lack of understanding and tolerance for each other’s differences has led to mistrust, suspicion, and outright hostility, resulting in communal clashes that have claimed many lives and destroyed properties worth millions of naira.

The complexity of community relations in Nigeria is rooted in several factors that have persisted over time. Poverty, inequality, diversities in cultural and ethnic identities, as well as political and religious affiliations, are critical factors contributing to the complexity of community relations in Nigeria. To address the issue, all stakeholders, including the government, civil society organizations, the media, and individuals, must play a role in promoting national unity and building trust between different ethnic and religious groups.

One of the critical factors contributing to the complexity of community relations in Nigeria is poverty. Nigeria is often referred to as a rich country with poor people, and this poverty has created an environment that fosters violence and conflict. In essence, poverty creates a significant threat to the social and economic fabric of the Nigerian society.In times of scarcity or economic hardship, people become more territorial and are willing to engage in violent or extremist activities to protect their interests. People who are unable to access or afford basic needs such as food, medical care, education, and accommodation are more likely to resort to crime in order to survive. There is evidence of a link between poverty and violence and invariably, this contributes to the exacerbation of social unrest among communities.

Thus, if the Nigerian government intends to promote community relations and mitigate social unrest, it should prioritize policies that target poverty reduction. The government needs to promote investment and economic growth, especially in rural areas, where the vast majority of Nigerians lives. Youth employment and entrepreneurship development programmes, such as vocational training, should be implemented to reduce unemployment, which is a significant cause of poverty and a critical factor in perpetuating community unrest.

Futhermore, Economic inequality is another challenge affecting community relations in Nigeria. The unequal distribution of resources and wealth in the country is a significant source of conflict. The distribution of resources is imbalanced such that most of the country’s oil reserves are in the Niger Delta region, where the people are among the poorest in the country. The wealth from Nigeria’s oil exports, which accounts for the bulk of the Nigerian foreign revenue, is often unequally distributed to favour some ethnic groups over others. While the rest of the country enjoys access to electricity and basic infrastructure, many people in the Niger Delta region do not have access to clean water or reliable electricity. This has created a feeling of marginalization and led to several conflicts between the government and local communities. The sense of disadvantage and exclusion could fuel anger among the affected communities.

These problems typify the discrepancies in wealth displayed by the elites and the successive governments in Nigeria, which tend to benefit a small clique of affiliated wealthy Nigerians to the detriment of the poorer masses. Thus, if Nigeria wants to curb the tensions, the government and policymakers must ensure that the distribution of resources, in particular, Nigeria’s oil wealth, is handled equitably.

Also, Cultural diversity is a strength of Nigeria, but it also poses a challenge to community relations. Nigeria’s population is comprised of over 200 ethnic groups, each with unique cultural identities. Cultural diversity in Nigeria has contributed to its unique historical traditions and resilience but has also led to several conflicts. Ethnic and religious tensions often erupt across Nigeria due to intolerance among various groups. For instance, it is not uncommon for one potentially mischievous comment by a politician or religious leader about another ethnic or religious group to trigger off a violent or extremist attack, which can quickly escalate into long-term crises.

Ethnic and religious leaders continue to promote exclusive identities, and there are increasing tendencies towards violent extremism, which often entail the subjugation of other communities by strictly adhering to the interests of one’s own. Sectarian violence and the Boko Haram insurgency in Northern Nigeria are examples of the violent tendencies that can arise from differences in culture and religious convictions.

Stakeholders must, therefore, find a way to promote dialogue and mutual respect among different ethnic and religious groups in Nigeria. Again, the government has a central role to play in promoting interethnic and interreligious dialogue while ensuring cultural diversity is respected and embraced.

However, The media can play a crucial role in promoting community relations through responsible reporting and the promotion of accurate information, as well as promoting national unity and cohesion. Although, the media may have also contributed to the complexity of community relations in Nigeria through irresponsible reporting. Several media outlets in Nigeria operate under the control of wealthy politicians and particular interests. These groups often use the media to promote divisive and hate-filled messages that exacerbate already tense community relations.

Social media platforms have also created opportunities for mischief-makers to disseminate false news and propaganda that can inspire hatred and division in society. Political and religious propagandists often use these platforms to sow seeds of misery, bringing disaffection and conflict amongst and within different communities.

The media can be an effective tool for promoting community relations if it is committed to responsible reporting and the promotion of national unity. The media must become more transparent about its ownership structure and funding sources to help promote accountability and professionalism.

Finally, Community relations in Nigeria is a complex issue that requires all stakeholders to play a role to mitigate the problem and move Nigeria towards a peaceful and prosperous nation. Nigeria is home to a rich cultural heritage and diversity, but it must find innovative ways to integrate and proactively manage these differences to build a more prosperous and peaceful country. The government must prioritise poverty eradication, reduce economic inequality and implement policies that can promote national unity. Targeted policies towards reducing the gaps in distribution of wealth will guarantee inclusive economic growth and address fears of marginalization, particularly by the poorer communities.

Addressing the fundamental challenges that contribute to community relations’ complexity in Nigeria, including promoting inclusive entrepreneurship programs and jobs creation, promoting political inclusiveness, interethnic and interreligious dialogue, and responsible and accountable media reporting are but a few ways that Nigeria can effectively manage its diversity and build a more inclusive and egalitarian society. Ultimately, creating a more prosperous and secure environment for all citizens must be high on the government’s agenda in Nigeria if the country seeks to move towards a sustainable future.

Akinbobola Vera Ajoke wrote in from Mass communication department of AAUA