A Discourse on the National Question and Democratic Development in Nigeria

Abstract

A country can only be referred to as a sovereign nation when there is a legitimate system of administration in place that enjoys the backing and support of all its citizens. A heterogeneous society like Nigeria has its attendant challenges arising from the diverse existing ethnic formations, which are characterized with different cultures and ideologies. It is the desire of every member of a community to be recognized, and provided with the enabling environment to carry out his/her legitimate business activities without fear, intimidation or the perceived notion of being treated as less deserving. The issues of equality, equity, freedom of movement and association are such that need not be debated nor clamoured for, as all men are created equal, and no religion, creed, tongue or tribe should be regarded as superior and the other inferior. The case for resource control, political participation and representation has further exacerbated the quest for national unity. This discourse is aimed at examining the challenges associated with the national question and democratic development in Nigeria. The study relied on the secondary sources for collection of data. The structural functional theory was employed in the research study. Findings from the study indicated the presence of division arising largely as a result of unequal distribution of state resources, and the agitation by minorities for state creation, and equal representation. The findings from the study recommended the need for inclusive government, intercultural dialogue, and peaceful conflict resolution.