The Conundrum of Ethnicity in Nigerian Society: The Igbo Experience

Today, as a Post-Doctoral Student at the University of Abuja’s Department of Education, I explore the intersection of ethnicity and occupation. On one hand, I work as a taxi driver to fulfill my financial responsibilities; on the other, I maintain a fish farm that requires constant attention. The disparity between these roles often reiterates the complexities of the Igbo identity in Nigeria, capturing a nuanced perspective on what it means to be Igbo and Nigerian.

Contextual Challenges and Prejudices

While driving at Giri junction, I witnessed a peculiar occurrence. That day, a bus from the South East of Nigeria arrived, and all drivers present there rose to warn me about the use of Igbo ethnic language. The argument was that such languages should be withheld in public spaces. This incident, though brief, encapsulates the dual challenge of being Indigenous and Indigenous to no land in Nigeria.

Near Absurdity in Public Spaces

Such comments reflect a broader societal divide. While I, as an Igbo, feel deeply rooted in the Nigerian narrative, being compelled to assimilate or conceal my ethnic identity feels nearly absurd. The notion that using Igbo language could deter potential customers or negatively impact business decisions underscores a divisiveness that often manifests in everyday interactions, challenging the ethos of National Unity.

Integration and Discrimination: An Unfolding Tale

Despite such incidents, the Igbo people have endured and carved a niche in various sectors of economic and social life. Consider the following:

Economic Resilience

The Igbo have businesses and enterprises across the country. Notably, many of these are outside their indigenous zones, indicating a broader acceptance and opportunities.

Igbo people hold prominent positions in government and public service in non-indigenous regions. They also participate in political appointments and elections, occasionally securing considerable electoral support.

In some regions, particularly markets like Alaba Market in Lagos, igbo-run businesses enjoy a near market monopoly, suggesting a strong and enduring influence on economic life.

The importation of goods into Nigeria is significantly driven by Igbos, often influencing consumer decisions and preferences across the nation.

Products from established Igbo-owned companies, such as the Innoson Motors, further demonstrate the economic footprint of the Igbo people, pointing to their success and resilience.

Political Influence

It's intriguing to observe how other significant ethnic groups in Nigeria seek political alliances with the Igbo community. This is often done to secure the desired electoral outcomes. This strategic move highlights the political influence and rapport Igbo people have built over the years within the Nigerian political sphere.

Geopolitical Precedents and Neo-Tribalism

The geopolitical landscape of Nigeria presents myriad layers of complexity. It's important to note that the South-East region, being the indigenous home of the Igbo people, remains the smallest region in terms of geographical size. Yet, it houses five states, which is a disproportionate number compared to its others in the country. Each state within this region has the same number of senators, furthering its political clout in the Nigerian establishment.

It is also pertinent to recognize that while resource allocations are often skewed, the South-East has historically received significant allocations, which in itself indicates a complex interplay of resource management and ethnic power dynamics.

Heritage and Resilience

While numbers and influence are factors, the Igbo people's resilience is perhaps their most striking feature. They have faced numerous political crises, including a civil war, yet their spirit remains unbroken. Their involvement in significant national events and their ability to maintain cultural and social traditions through institutions like the Eze Ndigbo speak volumes about the enduring nature of the igbo culture.

Conclusion: Building a United Nigeria

At a time when national unity is often called into question due to ethnic and regional tensions, it's crucial to recognize the diverse yet unified contributions each ethnic group makes to the Nigerian identity. Understanding the experiences of the Igbo people offers a clearer picture of the challenges and resilience inherent in Nigerian society.

While there are certainly instances of discomfort around ethnic identity, the overarching narrative of the Igbo people shows a nation where unity is not merely a slogan but a lived experience.

Promoting National Unity, educating ourselves comprehensively about our cultural histories, and fostering harmonious coexistence are essential steps towards building a future where all communities can thrive, ensuring that Nigeria remains a beacon of hope in the region and globally.