Political Parties and Nation Building in Nigeria's Fourth Republic

Abstract

This study evaluates the role of political parties in nation building using Nigeria as a case study and specific reference to the Fourth Republic. The objectives of this study are: to evaluate the general roles of political parties in nation building in Nigeria; to examine the extent to which political parties in Nigeria have fared in the task of nation-building in the Fourth Republic and to analyze the challenges confronting political parties in enhancing nation-building in Nigeria. However, through the adoption of the historical/qualitative analysis cum comparative method, and the adoption of the plural society theory as the theoretical framework it was discovered that Nigerian political parties beginning from 1922 till now have not fared well in the task of nation building. This is because political parties in Nigeria right from independence were interested in championing sectional interests. It was also found out that despite constitutional provisions, most Nigerian political parties in the Fourth Republic have given little or no regard to nation-building. It is however, recommended among others that Nigerian political parties should be more concerned about the activities that can enhance nation-building. Political parties need to train and produce leaders that will promote the interest of the citizens and not a section of the population. This is to douse the tension that may arise from interethnic conflict. Parties also need to adhere to constitutional provisions especially those on their formation and organization and those activities that can give credence to nation-building.