Mobilization of Ethnoreligious Sentiments and Leadership Selection in Sardauna Local Government Area of Taraba State, Nigeria

Sani; Hussaina; Heman Solomon Ahima; Ibrahim Yusuf Dubagari

doi:10.56201/jpslr.vol.12.no9.2026.pg289.297

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Mobilization of Ethnoreligious Sentiments and Leadership Selection in Sardauna Local Government Area of Taraba State, Nigeria

Sani, Hussaina, Heman Solomon Ahima, Ibrahim Yusuf Dubagari

Abstract

This study examined the mobilisation of ethnoreligious sentiments and leadership selection in Sardauna Local Government Area of Taraba State, Nigeria. The study was anchored on Social Identity Theory, which explains how individuals derive political identities from their membership of social groups and how such identities can influence political attitudes and behaviour. A qualitative research design was adopted, using Sardauna Local Government Area as a case study. Primary data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 15 key informants and one focus group discussion, while secondary data were obtained from relevant academic publications and official documents. The data were analysed thematically. The study found that political actors actively mobilise ethnic and religious sentiments during party primaries and general elections to secure political support and influence leadership selection. The findings further revealed that religious leaders, traditional rulers, community elders and youth groups serve as important channels for disseminating identity-based political messages through religious gatherings, community meetings, informal networks and social media platforms. Appeals to group interests, previous experiences of marginalisation, fear of losing political opportunities and peer pressure were also found to reinforce collective political behaviour. The study concludes that ethnoreligious mobilisation constitutes an important factor influencing leadership selection in Sardauna Local Government Area. It recommends greater emphasis on issue-based political mobilisation, E-ISSN 2504-883X P-ISSN 2695 2432 inclusive political structures, responsible involvement of religious and traditional leaders, civic education and intergroup dialogue to promote peaceful and inclusive leadership selection.

Keywords

Ethnoreligious Sentiments; Political Mobilisation; Leadership Selection; Sardauna Local Government Area.

References

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Mobilization of Ethnoreligious Sentiments and Leadership Selection in Sardauna Local Government Area of Taraba State, Nigeria

Abstract

Keywords

References

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