Lack of Leadership or a Curse: The Plight of the Gbagyi People Across Five Nigerian States
The Gbagyi people, an ethnic group found primarily in Niger, Nasarawa, Kogi, Kaduna, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) of Nigeria, face a complex and multifaceted challenge that has stunted their collective growth and development. With over 6 million people spread across more than 30 local government areas in these regions, the Gbagyi people are one of the largest ethnic groups in Nigeria. Yet, despite their numbers, they have struggled to establish a unified identity and leadership. This lack of cohesion raises a crucial question: Is this a problem of leadership, or is it something deeper—perhaps even a curse?
By Innocent Kure
The Absence of a Unified Leadership
Unlike the Yoruba, Benin, or Kanuri people, who boast a rich history of kingdoms and centralized leadership, the Gbagyi people have no comparable historical figure or kingdom to rally around. The Gbagyi have always been a decentralized people, with a culture that values autonomy and individualism. While this has allowed for a diversity of thought and approach within the community, it has also led to a lack of unity and direction on a larger scale. Without a unifying leader or a centralized system of governance, the Gbagyi people have struggled to coordinate their efforts and assert themselves politically and socially within Nigeria.
This lack of leadership has had far-reaching implications. In a country where political power and influence are often tied to ethnic identity and leadership, the Gbagyi people find themselves marginalized and without proper representation at the highest levels of government.
The Problem of Acceptance: Identity Crisis.
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One of the most telling examples of the Gbagyi people’s struggle with identity is the case of General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB). The former military president of Nigeria, IBB, has repeatedly identified himself as a Gbagyi man. Born and raised among the Gbagyi, he speaks the language fluently and has maintained close ties with the people. Yet, many Gbagyi people refuse to accept him as one of their own, labelling him instead as Hausa. The same can be said of Mallam Ibrahim Aliyu, whose mother is Gbagyi, but who is not embraced by the Gbagyis.
This reluctance to accept prominent figures who identify with the Gbagyi people reflects a deeper problem of self-perception and acceptance. It is as if the Gbagyi people themselves do not believe that they are worthy of producing leaders of national or international stature. This internalized sense of inferiority has hindered their ability to unite and advocate for their collective interests.
A Curse of Division?
Beyond the issues of leadership and acceptance lies another troubling aspect of Gbagyi society: the apparent reluctance of Gbagyi people to support one another. It is often said that a Gbagyi man would rather see a fellow Gbagyi struggle than help him succeed. Even those who attain positions of power and influence are reluctant to bring their fellow Gbagyi along with them. This lack of solidarity and communal support has left the Gbagyi people fragmented and weakened.
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Is this behaviour a curse, as some have suggested? Or is it the result of years of marginalization and a lack of self-worth? The answer may lie in a combination of both. The Gbagyi people have been historically marginalized, and this has undoubtedly impacted their collective psyche. The absence of strong, unifying leadership has compounded this problem, leaving the Gbagyi people divided and unable to capitalize on their strengths.
For the Gbagyi people to overcome these challenges, a fundamental shift in mindset is required. First and foremost, there needs to be a recognition of the value of unity and the importance of strong, inclusive leadership. The Gbagyi must begin to embrace and celebrate their identity, recognizing and supporting those among them who rise to prominence. This includes accepting the Gbagyi heritage of figures like IBB and Mallam Ibrahim Aliyu, who can serve as symbols of pride and unity.
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Moreover, the Gbagyi people must work to build a culture of support and solidarity. This means helping one another to succeed, whether in business, politics, or other areas of life. By lifting each other up, the Gbagyi can begin to overcome the divisions that have held them back for so long.
Ultimately, the future of the Gbagyi people lies in their own hands. Whether they choose to continue on their current path or to forge a new one of unity, leadership, and self-acceptance will determine whether they remain a marginalized group or rise to their full potential as a powerful and cohesive force within Nigeria.
Kure is Media Aide to the former Niger state governor, Mu’azu Aliyu
