Mythmaking, Identity Formation and Ethnic Nationalism in Post-colonial Nigeria Through the Lens of Yoruba and Igbo Nationalism

Abstract

ABSTRACT Numerous accounts blame colonialism for the challenges to stability in multiethnic post-colonial states in Africa. The post-colonial state it is said, disrupted the homogeneous ethnic society, thereby sparking an intractable conflict between the two. One implication then, is the inevitability of conflict and instability, with suggestion of a return to default precolonial arrangement, or an “original position”, to disentangle the diverse ethnic identities artificially lumped together. Another argument seeks to leverage on the constructedness of ethnic identities as a basis for dismissing them and privileging the post-colonial state over its constituents. I problematise these arguments from both historical and philosophical viewpoints. Using the Yoruba and Igbo ethnic groups of Nigeria as fodder, I argue that mythmaking, though primordial, plays a significant role that is both constructivist and instrumental in the identity (re)construction process of ethnic groups. I conclude that social cohesion in post-colonial states requires a political framework that manages diversity through a free, other-regarding mode of dialogue as well as recognition of group rights, in a way that makes both the ethnic group and the state stable, yet open to constant renegotiation.