Indigeneship and citizenship in Nigeria: myth and reality

Like in many societies the world over, the indigenes-settlers' syndrome in Nigeria is an age long problem. The distinction between autochthonous people and migrant groups even in ancient kingdoms and primordial communities attest to this assertion. However, unlike in the contemporary period when the problem has assumed a more serious dimension perhaps due to its manipulation for individual and group gains, this was not the case in the distant past when highly hybridized people and culture emerged from the blending of autochthonous and migrant groups. As a way of justifying the distinction between indigenes and settlers and reaping the gains, myths have been built while certain positions have been established. Not surprisingly, crises have been generated some of which have defied all known logic till now. Considering these realities, the contention of this paper is that the dividing line between indigenes and settlers is very thin and that in the context of modern Nigeria, the issue of citizenship needs to be strengthened. This involves going beyond mere Constitutional provisions to enforcement as well as strengthening of statutory provisions. Thus, this paper argues that the resolution of the central issues involved in citizenship/indigeneship conflicts will redefine the concept of federalism in Nigeria.