DIALECTICS OF NATIONAL QUESTION AND RESTRUCTURING IN NIGERIA: A RETHINK

Abstract

The paper examined the nexus between the National Question and Restructuring in Nigeria with a view to x-raying the centrifugal forces militating against fostering unity in diversity in the country. Relying on secondary data and employing content analysis, the paper found that the political elites are practising politics with bitterness; and have been exploiting the great diversity of the country to their advantage to the detriment of the majority citizens. This culminated to the country becoming enveloped in multifarious violent conflicts that is threatening to tear the country apart. Consequently, the paper recommended among others that Justice and equitable distribution of resources by political office holders and stamping out corruption among others will go a long way in reducing poverty induced conflicts to the barest minimum; and Strict adherence to the tenets of democracy such as accountability, transparency, rule of law and being responsive to the citizens’ yearnings and aspirations, coupled with diversifying the economy will enhance socio-economic development and political stability in Nigeria.