REGIONALISM, PSEUDO-FEDERALISM AND NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA

Abstract

The study explores the linkages between regionalism, pseudo-federalism and development crises
in Nigeria. The theoretical framework is the decision-making theory which remains central in
understanding human choices and their effects. Data are drawn and analysed through the
qualitative methods of document tracing and content analysis. Contrary to the wide claim that
regionalism bequeathed Nigeria federalism, the study argues that regionalism laid the foundation
of pseudo-federalism which has continued to militate against development in the country. The
Richards constitution of 1946 created the northern, western and eastern regions in which the
Hausa/Fulani, the Yoruba and the Igbo were the major ethnic groups respectively. This generated
tension between major and minor ethnic groups in the country. The minor ethnic groups saw
themselves as going to confront a situation of perpetual domination in the event that power was
transferred to indigenous leadership. The minority groups thus demanded separate regions for
themselves as a measure to secure their identities. The agitations for more regions brought about
the persistent fragmentation of Nigeria into weak states and powerful central government.
Consequently, Nigeria has been reduced to a pseudo-federation clearly defined by a legalised
federal hegemony. The pseudo-federalism which Nigeria operates has created numerous problems
for the state. There are agitations for resource control and self-determination, herdsmen-farmers
clashes, militancy, banditry and insurgency in the country. These contradictions, which have made
Nigeria a state under tension, are formidable forces against national development.