The Yoruba Council Worldwide (YCW), led by its President Hassan Oladotun, has identified critical historical, political, and socio-economic factors contributing to the longstanding feud between the Igbo and Yoruba ethnic groups in Nigeria.
A recent viral video viral video in which one Amaka Patience Sunnberger, a Canada-based woman, made threatening remarks against Nigerians of Yoruba and Benin descent.
As noted from the video, Amaka was heard saying:
Reacting to this, Oladotun condemned this action and called on Interpol to have her arrested immediately.
However, before now, there have been instances where some individuals of Yoruba descent also called for the evacuation of Igbos in Lagos.
Legit.ng notes that the feud between the Yorubas and the Igbos has been a major concern and has significantly affected the growth of Nigeria.
Reacting to this episode of tribal intolerance, Oladotun, speaking exclusively with Legit.ng on Saturday, August 21, outlined potential causes and solutions aimed at fostering unity and peace between the two communities.
Oladotun traced the conflict’s origins back to the colonial era, particularly the amalgamation of the Northern and Southern Protectorates in 1914.
He pointed out that the British colonial indirect rule system laid the groundwork for ethnic tensions by creating a power imbalance, particularly favouring the North.
He said:
The YCW president highlighted the 1966 coup, led predominantly by Igbo officers, as a significant flashpoint in the Igbo-Yoruba rivalry.
The coup, followed by a counter-coup and the ensuing Biafra War, deepened the divide between the two groups.
He explained:
Oladotun also pointed to socio-economic differences as a source of tension.
Igbos and Yorubas are known for their industrious nature, but the competition for economic dominance, particularly in Lagos, has exacerbated the rivalry.
He said:
Religious and cultural differences have further complicated the relationship between the two groups.
While the North is predominantly Muslim, the South is a mix of Christians and traditional religions, with Yorubas being more religiously diverse.
He said:
Oladotun proposed several solutions to bridge the divide between the Igbos and Yorubas.
