Veteran journalist and author, Chuks Iloegbunam has called for tolerance and coexistence among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups, citing the example of the Yoruba community living in Côte d’Ivoire for nearly a century.
Speaking on the Edmund Obilo Show on Splash FM 105.5 from 5:27, Iloegbunam noted that the Yoruba population in Côte d’Ivoire has flourished peacefully without facing hostility from their host nation.
“There are millions of Yoruba people in Cote d’Ivoire, at least 5 million, they have been living there since the 30s. Nobody’s chasing them away,” Iloegbunam said, stressing that migration and settlement are natural human experiences that should not breed conflict.
According to him, the thriving Yoruba presence in Côte d’Ivoire demonstrates that ethnic and cultural diversity can be a source of strength rather than division. He argued that Nigeria must learn from such examples, especially in light of the tensions and separatist agitations that have frequently threatened its unity.
Iloegbunam further emphasized that hostility against people based on tribe or place of origin undermines national development. He maintained that just as Ivorians have accepted Yoruba communities as part of their society, Nigerians should promote inclusion and mutual respect across all regions.
Analysts have often noted that inter-ethnic mistrust remains one of Nigeria’s greatest challenges, fueling conflicts and weakening cooperation. Iloegbunam’s intervention, however, highlights the possibility of a different reality, where acceptance and tolerance foster peace and prosperity.
He urged political leaders, traditional rulers, and citizens to take deliberate steps toward bridging divides, warning that without unity, Nigeria’s democratic progress and economic growth would remain fragile.
By pointing to the Yoruba experience in Côte d’Ivoire, Iloegbunam underscored that peaceful coexistence is not only possible but essential for national survival.
