12 causes of ethnic conflict in Nigeria – #2, #6 and #8 has led to death of millions of people

2) Tribalism

Tribalism is one of the causes of ethnic conflict in Nigeria. Loyalty to ethnic groups impedes true nationalism and unity of the country. From the colonial times till date, leaders use ethnic biases to win election and divide the country. Most of the conflicts that take place begin from this ancient ethnic sentiments fueled by selfish political motives.

For example, employment into public office, ministries, agencies and directorates of federal government are mostly for tribal reasons and not competence. When you raise objections it snowballs into ethnic fight. Tribalism drives a wedge into true brotherhood in the nation and upholds division which causes ethnic conflicts and stops collective efforts to grow the economy. The fact is that tribalism divides the people and fosters Favoritism.