A. ethnic conflicts
B. environmental pollution
C. boundary disputes
D. fiscal allocation
Correct Answer:
Option A – ethnic conflicts
Explanation
A major problem associated with Nigerian federalism is ethnic conflicts. There has been inter-ethnic contact in the various regions but without discrimination and bitter experiences. The issue of neutralization of Lagos in 1953 would have strongly made Chief Obafemi Awolowo lead the Yorubas to secede from Nigeria but for the threat of war from the Governor and the Colonial Office in London. The real secession which was experienced in Nigeria was that of the then Eastern Region in the year 1967. The secession was as a result of the 1966 military coup which was followed by the pogrom that was perpetrated against the Igbos in the North. The East declared the Republic of Biafra and engaged Nigeria in a civil war from 1967-1970. This question of ethnic conflicts has also given rise to other serious issues such as unending demand for creating more states and acceptable revenue allocation formula.
