After innumerable citizens indigenous to Lagos and the South-West in Nigeria roundly criticised traditional ruler Rilwan Akiolu, the Oba of Lagos, for his unfortunate ‘warning to the Igbos’, one should be impressed that there is hope in Nigeria even though not immediately convincing. The warning the Oba meted bordered on vicious tribalism and tribal cleansing. It demonstrated social and political maturity and sensibility in the South West that is alive, sensitive and robust. Wole Soyinka, who is Nigeria’s most influential intellectual, did not say a word. Continue reading →