Purpose: Nigeria is characterized by ethnic diversity and the quest to achieve ‘unity in diversity’ led to its adoption of federalism as the basic structure and principle of governance. Over six decades after independence, the country remains sharply divided along ethnic lines, and national unity remains a mirage. While there is a burgeoning body of research on the causes, manifestations, and consequences of ethnic diversity mismanagement in Nigeria, few attempts have been made to analytically study the effects of constitutional provisions on the phenomenon. The study, thus, examined the effects of the indigeneity clause in the Nigerian constitution on ethnic diversity management in the country. Research methodology: The study is based on a review of secondary data on Nigeria’s constitutional provisions and institutional processes. Results: It identified that the indigeneity clause in the country’s constitutions has created different notions of citizenship and further exacerbated differences between ethnic groups in the country. The clause established two classes of Nigerians, indigenes, and settlers, and the ensuing ‘us against them’ culture lies at the root of ethnic tensions witnessed in the country. Limitations: Other issues, apart from the indigeneity clause, may also lead to the mismanagement of ethnic diversity in the country. Contribution: The findings and recommendations of the study provide a veritable template to help ensure good ethnic diversity management in Nigeria and other multi-ethnic states.

Purpose: Opposition political parties are generally believed to be weak in Africa and particularly in Nigeria. Despite their centrality to the democratic consolidation, opposition parties are not performing the critical role as watchdogs to the ruling party partly because of their sizes or fragmentations. This study examined the role of the ruling political party in Nigeria and, by extension, the Nigerian government in making opposition parties be perpetually weak to ensure its hold on power. Research methodology: The study employed qualitative data in carrying out the research. Results: From the contextual analysis of the literature reviewed, the study discovered that weak political institutions and a lack of political will are largely at the heart of the problem in Nigeria. Recommendations: It posited that transparency and political will on the part of the ruling party and the government will create a level playing field for all political parties to thrive.