Renowned political activist Dele Farotimi has launched a scathing critique of underlying ethnic prejudices prevalent in post-election discussions, challenging what he perceives as deeply ingrained discriminatory attitudes across Nigerian ethnic groups.
In a recent post Dele Farotimi shared on his official X handle, Farotimi dissected a seemingly innocuous statement that he argues reveals systemic ethnic bias. “Even when you’re passing what you believe to be a compliment, you couldn’t hide the reflexive bigotry that you have all embraced, Yoruba, Igbo, all of you,” he declared.
The activist specifically targeted a statement praising a “Yoruba man with sense intact,” challenging the implied narrative. “..their is still a Yoruba man with sense intact..” like seriously?” Farotimi questioned, highlighting the inherent stereotyping in such language.
Directly confronting electoral dynamics, he challenged ethnic voting narratives: “Was it Igbo votes that gave PO victory in Lagos?” Farotimi pointedly asked, referencing the recent political landscape.
Concluding with a sharp indictment, he asserted: “You are little different from what you have decried,” emphasizing the perpetuation of divisive ethnic stereotypes even among those who claim to oppose such perspectives.
These remarks come amid ongoing discussions about ethnic representation and political participation in Nigeria, reflecting the complex interplay of identity and electoral politics in the nation’s democratic process.