YORUBA AND IGBO INTER-ETHNIC RELATIONS IN IBADAN, 1945-1970

Abstract

Human interactions are necessary for the development of human society. Over the years, this fact played a profound role in building Africa as a close knitted society driven by ethos rooted in brotherhood. In Nigeria, therefore, the Igbo and Yoruba have largely demonstrated this reality in their interactions. Apparently, the Yoruba and Igbo share some historical affinities and have related well in the past. However, due to the nature and partner of Nigeria’s post-colonial politics rooted in self-centredness, the Yoruba and Igbo began to experience some strains in their interactions at the post-colonial era created by politicians from both groups. Nevertheless, Ibadan has over the years become a home for the Igbo as well as provided the enabling environment and atmosphere for Igbo-Yoruba relations. In another vein, the Igbo have contributed immensely to the socio-economic development of Ibadan through their peaceful comportment, industry and ingenuity. Be that as it may, the unique Yoruba-Igbo inter-ethnic relations are largely neglected by scholars. This study, therefore, analyzed the relations between Yoruba and Igbo with a view to understanding the mechanism employed in their relations and how they were able to explore and maintain cordial relationship with fewer clashes of interest. Both primary and secondary sources were utilized. Historical-analytical method was adopted for the study. It is observed that Yoruba and Igbo had robust interactions in Ibadan except for some isolated cases of mistrust and betrayal largely associated with the 1966 political crises in Nigeria.