…Public affairs analyst Mahdi Shehu Blames Leadership Failure for Nigeria’s Ethnic Divide, says selfish governance is fuelling division, urges citizens to embrace national unity.
KANO, NIGERIA — The iNews Times | Mahdi Shehu Blames Leadership Failure for rising tribalism in Nigeria, declaring that the country’s deepening ethnic divisions are largely the product of poor governance, selfish politics, and a breakdown of accountability at the highest levels of power.
Speaking on Sunday as keynote speaker at the Arewa Twitter Connect event themed “Beyond the Timelines,” the public affairs analyst argued that leadership failure has shaped citizens’ behaviour over time, normalising selfishness and weakening national cohesion.
In this report, we examine the key developments, reactions from stakeholders, and the broader implications.
Background of the Story
Nigeria has long grappled with ethnic and religious tensions, often intensified during election cycles and moments of political transition. From debates over federal character to recurring disputes over resource control and appointments, the issue of tribalism remains central to national discourse.
Mahdi Shehu Blames Leadership Failure within this historical context, insisting that citizens often mirror the conduct of those who govern them. According to him, when leaders demonstrate integrity and fairness, societies tend to unify. But when leaders pursue personal enrichment, division becomes entrenched.
The Arewa Twitter Connect event in Kano provided a platform for frank discussions on civic responsibility, governance, and the role of youth in shaping Nigeria’s democratic future.
Key Developments
During his address, Shehu referenced Greek philosophical classifications of society to explain how nations evolve based on mindset and conduct.
He stated that societies are typically composed of different categories of people, those who think only of themselves, those who prioritise tribal interests, those who act as responsible citizens, and those who remain perpetual victims without seeking change.
Mahdi Shehu Blames Leadership Failure for expanding the first two categories, arguing that selfish and divisive leadership breeds selfish and divisive followership.
“Who creates fools? It is leaders,” he declared. “When leaders display greed, arrogance, and indifference to the suffering of the people, they indirectly create a culture of selfishness.”
He further warned that when public office holders assume power with modest means and exit with enormous wealth, it sends a dangerous message to society.
“If a leader comes into office poor and suddenly becomes extremely wealthy while citizens suffer, people begin to believe selfishness is normal,” he said.
Shehu also linked the rise in tribal sentiments to governance practices that appear biased or unjust.
“When leaders break promises, fail to uphold the law, and protect corrupt allies, they deepen ethnic suspicions and create divided citizens,” he stated.
Reactions from Stakeholders
Participants at the event described the speech as both blunt and necessary.
A youth organiser at the forum noted that Shehu’s remarks reflected widespread frustration among young Nigerians. “Many people feel disconnected from leadership. When institutions fail to deliver justice fairly, citizens retreat into ethnic or religious identities,” he said.
Another attendee, a civic engagement advocate, told The iNews Times that Shehu’s emphasis on accountability was timely. “Leadership defines the moral direction of a country. If those at the top model integrity, citizens will follow,” she said.
Shehu also criticised the culture of shielding corrupt individuals, particularly when religious and traditional leaders defend them under the guise of loyalty.
“As long as Nigeria continues to give shelter to criminals and corrupt individuals, unity will remain fragile,” he warned.
Implications
Mahdi Shehu Blames Leadership Failure at a time when Nigeria is navigating economic reforms, security challenges, and preparations for future elections.
Analysts say his remarks underscore a growing public sentiment that governance quality directly affects national unity. Rising living costs, unemployment, and insecurity have intensified debates about accountability and transparency in public office.
If citizens continue to lose trust in institutions, experts warn, ethnic and regional loyalties may overshadow national identity, complicating efforts toward inclusive development.
The speech also raises questions about the role of civic education in nation-building. Shehu’s call for empathy and collective responsibility suggests that restoring unity requires both ethical leadership and active citizenship.
What Happens Next
Observers expect conversations sparked by the event to continue across digital platforms and civic spaces, particularly among youth groups engaged in political discourse.
With social media playing a growing role in shaping public opinion, initiatives like Arewa Twitter Connect may influence broader discussions about governance reforms and citizen engagement.
Whether leaders heed such calls remains to be seen, but the pressure for accountability appears unlikely to fade.
Conclusion
Mahdi Shehu Blames Leadership Failure not merely as criticism, but as a warning about the direction of national consciousness. His message in Kano was clear: a divided society is often the reflection of divided leadership.
As Nigeria confronts its persistent fault lines, the challenge may lie not only in confronting tribalism among citizens, but in addressing the leadership practices that give it life.
For continuing coverage of governance, national unity debates, and civic discourse, stay with The iNews Times.
