Tribalism has had a huge effect on the development of our country Nigeria. Unfortunately, tribalism and sectionalism are rearing their heads in Yobe State. The dominant languages in the area are Ngizim, Bolewa, Kare Kare and Kanuri. These tribes are the major problem in our dear state as their sons and daughters struggle to outwit one another in the chase for plum jobs and positions.
In a developing state like Yobe it is expected that its people will be united for its progress, but tribalism seems to be rearing its head and causing disunity among the people.
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Our state can never move forward unless we overcome this problem and the people act as one.
Already, the negative influence of tribalism has brought some damage to the socio-political and economic development of the state. For instance, whenever the government intends to provide jobs, projects, or other things of import, key members of the government start to push to get that development only for their people.
I believe it is time to have a deeper understanding of ourselves and work together without allowing tribal differences to divide us.
Also, the government needs to start practicing equality between the people of the state without showing any favoritism.
Likewise, we need to change our attitude of only voting for persons who are from our tribe without considering their competence to do the the job.
Zainab Muhammed Auwal,
Department of Mass Communication, University of Maiduguri
