Britain planted two evils in Nigeria – PDP Chieftain, Bode George
A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Bode George, has attributed Nigeria’s persistent divisions to what he called the “two evils” introduced by British colonial rule — tribalism and religious bigotry.
Speaking on Arise Television’s Morning Show on Thursday, George made the remark while reacting to a question about the Federal Government’s decision to grant a posthumous state pardon to Herbert Macaulay, a move that was later rejected by the late nationalist’s family.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had recently granted a presidential prerogative of mercy to Macaulay — widely regarded as the “Father of Nigerian Nationalism” — along with 174 other individuals. Macaulay was twice convicted by the British colonial authorities during his lifetime in Lagos.
Responding to the family’s rejection of the gesture, George said the government was free to act as it pleased, noting that history would ultimately judge such actions.
“That’s their business. They are in power. Let them use it as they think. When the time comes, Nigerians will have their say. As a family member, the man [Macaulay] dared the British,” he stated.
Chief George further criticized the colonial legacy that, according to him, continues to undermine national unity.
“Two evils were planted by the British in this country — tribalism and religious bigotry. Every time there’s a national issue, it can usually be traced back to either of these two. Look at the Christian-Muslim divide. In the western region, you can hardly find a home without a Christian, a Muslim, and a traditionalist,” he said.
The PDP stalwart cited his own family as an example of religious tolerance, revealing that his eldest sister is a Muslim whom he had sponsored to perform the Hajj pilgrimage.
“All these things we argue about are existential imbecilities that have no bearing on the management of this country. Nobody chose to be born a Christian or a Muslim. Just love your neighbour as yourself — it’s even in the Quran,” George concluded.
