MULTICULTURALISM IN NIGERIA AND THE PROSPECTS OF TRUE DEMOCRACY MODELS

Abstract

The plethora of problems confronting Nigeria as a multicultural nation often compels a reconsideration of homogenization over multiculturalism. Thus the aim of this paper is to address the problems that bedevil governance in a multicultural nation like Nigeria, hence recommending democratic solutions. This research applies analytic tool of investigation to examine Nigeria’s multicultural problems in their atomic form. This research studies the rich benefits that multiculturalism offers a nation from survival of culture and growth through friction to the color and the richness it adds. This research studies some fundamental challenges of multiculturalism to which all other problems are merely outgrowths such as; conflicts due to fundamentalism and chauvinism; cultural fixity discouraging interaction with other cultures and its peoples; extermination of minority and individual rights in a context that emphasizes group rights. This research recognizes Hausa, Yoruba and Igbo as the major tribes among many other minor tribes, the use of English as the lingua franca and the NYSC initiative towards unity amidst multiculturalism. However, the work calls for a proper enforcement of these initiatives. Minding the weight of problems rocking the nation as a result of her multiculturalism, this research proposes democratic solution anchoring on true federalism; power-sharing among the regions; a return to regional autonomy against the presidential system currently in practice; a consensus democracy which grants citizens not only voting rights but right to referendum; and enforcement of the rule of law. The work also highlights the need to initiate attitudinal changes through education. When these situations are well addressed then Nigeria’s multiculturalism can best be described as unity in diversity