Ethnic chauvinism is the forebear of stigmatism, the belief that one’s own mother tongue, dialect, birth or group is superior to others. This form of prejudice and discrimination is not only harmful but also divisive, as it seeks to promote the interests of one group at the expense of others.
The Okun Yoruba people of Kogi State, have a very rich cultural heritage that dates back centuries. However, in order to truly fit into the modern world and thrive in today’s society, it is imperative that they jettison all forms of historical and contemporary primordial stigmatization.
Historical stigmatization is the negative stereotypes and discrimination that have been perpetuated by variouse dialect and towns in Okunland among themselves based on their family, birth and dialect identity. It is either between Bunu and Owe, Yagba and Ijumu, or Oworo versus their other Okun kins and kindred.
The worst of it happens within the various dialects themselves. This had manifested in forms such as marginalization, exclusion, cheating and belittlement, which had hindered and negatively impacted their political progress, economic and social growth and development. By letting go of these outdated perceptions and truly embrace their true identities in onness and seek to cooperatively contribute positively to the Okun nation they are a all part of.
Stigmatization is the continued reinforcement of negative stereotypes and biases by Okun people based on birth and family against their fellow Okun in this modern times. This can be seen in the form of discrimination in areas such as employment, education, and politics, which had limited their opportunities for social and political mobility and economic advancement.
By challenging to dismantling these stereotypes, the Okun people can create a more inclusive and equitable society for themselves, ensue a bond of togetherness, onness in fraternal love for themselves in the interest of future generations.
Clanish and family chauvinists in Okun often hold narrow-minded views about other families based on stereotypes and misinformation. This had led to acts of discrimination, marginalization, and even violence against families who are perceived as belonging to a different family of lesser pedigree within the same community.
Clan chauvinism have a negative impact on Okunland as a whole, creating divisions and hindering social cohesion. It had also contributed greatly to their unfortunate political misfortunes, as the different dialects and groups perennially refuse to step down for themselves in an electoral pursuit that entails a fierce competition with other tribes in Kogi state.
In order to combat clannish chauvinism in Okun, it is important that they truly and sincerely promotes understanding, tolerance, and respect for all persons and clans within the various towns and villages. Education and awareness-raising campaigns can help to challenge stereotypes and prejudices, and promote a more inclusive and harmonious Okun, in the spirit of give and take.
In this contemporary times, primordial stigmatization continues to be a prevalent issue, despite advancements in social justice and awareness among nations. Instances of clannish profiling, gender discrimination, and classism are still common, perpetuating harmful stereotypes and limiting the potential of individuals and groups based on their inherent characteristics.
Family and individual stigmatization remains a significant societal challenge that requires ongoing efforts to address and eliminate in Okunland. By recognizing and confronting stigmatizing attitudes and behaviors, Okun people can work towards creating a more equitable and just society for all of their peoplepeople and achieve their political and economy aims and objectives with ease
– Musa Bakare is the Coordinator of Okun Parapo.
