Atlantic Post

---

The passing of Emeritus Professor Tekena Nitonye Tamuno on April 11, 2015, marked the end of an era for Nigerian academia. A celebrated historian and former Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Tamuno was more than a scholar; he was a custodian of Nigeria’s complex and often contested history. His work, particularly his unapologetic narrative about the pivotal role of the Igbo people in shaping modern Nigeria, continues to provoke fierce debates about national identity, historical truth, and political power.

In a country where historical narratives are weaponised to justify regional dominance and marginalisation, Professor Tamuno’s writings serve as a clarion call for revisiting and reanalysing Nigeria’s past. His assertion that “the Igbos are the makers of modern Nigeria” offers a powerful counter-narrative to the dominant stories propagated by the Yoruba-controlled press and endorsed by northern political elites. These groups, according to Tamuno, have long manipulated historical records to perpetuate myths that downplay the contributions of the Igbo and other marginalised groups.

In this first batch of our in-depth exploration, we focus on Tamuno’s critiques of historical revisionism in Nigeria and the implications of his bold claims for understanding the nation’s socio-political dynamics. As a historian, Tamuno’s insistence on “a balance of stories” resonates as a plea for truth in a country deeply divided by its ethnic and regional identities.

The Weaponisation of History in Nigeria

The manipulation of historical narratives in Nigeria is not a new phenomenon. From the colonial period to the post-independence era, history has often been skewed to favor specific ethnic groups while vilifying others. According to Professor Tamuno, the Yoruba elite, with control over the press and other intellectual platforms, have been at the forefront of this practice. During and after the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970), this control enabled them to present a version of history that glorified their achievements while vilifying the Igbo people as instigators of national discord.

Tamuno’s critique is particularly scathing when it comes to the portrayal of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, often celebrated as the architect of modern Nigeria. While acknowledging Awolowo’s contributions, Tamuno argues that the Yoruba nationalist narrative inflates his achievements while erasing the transformative work of Igbo leaders like Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe and Michael Okpara. According to Tamuno, the East, under Azikiwe and Okpara’s leadership, achieved unparalleled economic and social development, laying the foundation for a modern Nigeria.

Economic Development and Educational Advancements in the East

One of Tamuno’s most compelling arguments is the economic and educational transformation of Eastern Nigeria between 1954 and 1964. Citing the Harvard Review, he highlights how the region was described as “the fastest growing economy in the world,” surpassing even the emerging Asian Tigers. This remarkable feat was achieved despite the East being the poorest region in terms of natural resources and revenue allocation.

Through community-driven initiatives and matching grants from the Eastern Nigeria Development Corporation, the region built schools, hospitals, and infrastructure that were unmatched anywhere else in the country. Institutions like the National High School in Okigwe and the Ngwa High School stand as enduring testaments to this era of progress. The Eastern government also allocated 45% of its revenue to education, a record unmatched in Nigeria’s history. Tamuno contrasts these tangible achievements with the so-called “free education” policy in the West, questioning the lack of surviving structures to support this claim.

The Role of the Igbo in Nation-Building

Professor Tamuno’s declaration that the Igbos are “the makers of modern Nigeria” is not mere hyperbole. He meticulously traces their contributions to nation-building, from establishing modern libraries and market systems to founding the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), the country’s first indigenous university. UNN’s pioneering programmes in law, engineering, journalism, and other fields redefined higher education in Nigeria, producing graduates who excelled in various spheres of public life.

Tamuno also credits the Igbo with introducing innovative systems of governance and development. The Onitsha Modern Market, often described as the “Dubai of Africa,” was a hub of commerce that attracted traders from across the continent. This economic vibrancy, coupled with a robust public health and education system, positioned the East as a model for development in Africa.

Historical Revisionism and Its Consequences

The deliberate erasure or distortion of these achievements has far-reaching consequences. According to Tamuno, the revisionist narratives perpetuated by the Yoruba-controlled press have not only marginalised the Igbo but also misled their own people. Many Yorubas, for instance, falsely believe that Awolowo founded the University of Ibadan and the University of Lagos, achievements that were actually driven by Azikiwe and the NCNC-led federal government.

This rewriting of history, Tamuno argues, has created a false sense of superiority among certain groups while fuelling resentment and alienation among others. It has also hindered Nigeria’s ability to build a cohesive national identity, as the contributions of key players are downplayed or ignored.

A Call for a Balance of Stories

Tamuno’s call for “a balance of stories” is a plea for fairness and accuracy in documenting Nigeria’s history. He believes that the advent of social media offers a unique opportunity to challenge entrenched narratives and bring suppressed truths to light. By amplifying voices that have been silenced or ignored, social media platforms can help foster a more inclusive and truthful account of Nigeria’s past.

As we delve deeper into Professor Tamuno’s assertions, the next section will explore the role of social media in reshaping historical narratives and examine how Tamuno’s ideas challenge the status quo in Nigeria’s intellectual and political landscape. The battle for historical truth, as Tamuno demonstrates, is not just an academic exercise; it is a struggle for justice and equality in a deeply divided nation.

---

The Role of Social Media in Reshaping Historical Narratives

The advent of the internet, particularly the social media revolution, has brought a transformative force to the global landscape of information dissemination. In Nigeria, a country steeped in contested histories and conflicting ethnic narratives, social media has emerged as a democratising tool, allowing suppressed voices to challenge dominant accounts. For Professor Tekena Nitonye Tamuno, this shift represents a vital opportunity to correct the distortions of Nigeria’s history and amplify the truths that have been systematically buried by elite-controlled platforms.

Social Media as a Battlefield for Historical Truth

Professor Tamuno’s assertion that “the greatest merit for Igbos in recent times is the social media aspect of the internet” underscores the power of these platforms to rewrite the script. The dominance of the Yoruba-controlled press, which Tamuno criticised for skewing historical narratives to favor the Yoruba elite while demonising the Igbo, can no longer go unchallenged. With platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, independent thinkers and scholars now have direct access to a global audience. They can present evidence, question official accounts, and, crucially, amplify voices that have long been marginalised in Nigeria’s historiography.

The post-Civil War dominance of the press by the Yoruba elite, in collaboration with northern political powers, created an echo chamber that perpetuated a particular version of Nigeria’s history. This version, as Tamuno lamented, painted the Yoruba as the architects of Nigeria’s post-independence success while blaming the Igbo for the nation’s woes. Social media has disrupted this monopoly, enabling a new generation of Nigerians to revisit and reexamine these narratives with fresh perspectives.

For instance, social media platforms have facilitated the dissemination of evidence debunking claims that Awolowo single-handedly initiated free education or built the foundational institutions of modern Nigeria. Users have highlighted records showing that many of these achievements, often attributed to the West, were either replicated or preceded by similar initiatives in the East, led by Igbo leaders like Nnamdi Azikiwe. Such revelations not only challenge entrenched myths but also empower the Igbo community to reclaim their place in Nigeria’s history.

The Rise of Independent Historical Scholarship

One of the most significant outcomes of the social media era is the rise of independent historians and commentators who are unafraid to challenge orthodox accounts. These individuals, inspired by the work of scholars like Professor Tamuno, are using digital platforms to uncover and share alternative narratives. Their work has been instrumental in validating Tamuno’s assertion that the Igbos were indeed the makers of modern Nigeria.

For example, detailed analyses of Eastern Nigeria’s economic achievements between 1954 and 1964 have gained traction on social media, supported by archival materials and testimonies. The Harvard Review’s description of the East as “the fastest growing economy in the world” during this period has been widely shared, drawing attention to the region’s innovative governance and community-driven development models. Social media users have also highlighted the East’s unparalleled investment in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, contrasting it with the less substantiated claims of progress in other regions.

Tamuno’s critiques of the so-called “firsts” attributed to the Yoruba have similarly found fertile ground online. Posts and threads dissecting the origins of the Western Nigeria Broadcasting Service (WNBS-TV) and the Eastern Nigeria Broadcasting Corporation (ENBC-TV) have revealed that the latter, founded in 1959, lagged behind its Western counterpart by only seven months. This timeline challenges the narrative of Yoruba exceptionalism in media innovation, showing that the East was not far behind, despite facing greater economic constraints.

Reclaiming Igbo Contributions to Nation-Building

Social media has also been instrumental in reclaiming the contributions of the Igbo to Nigeria’s nation-building efforts. Campaigns to honour the legacies of leaders like Azikiwe and Okpara have gained momentum, with users sharing stories of their transformative projects, such as the Onitsha Modern Market, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and the Eastern Medical Services. These projects, which laid the foundation for modern commerce, education, and healthcare in Nigeria, have been positioned as evidence of the East’s leadership in national development.

The emphasis on community-driven development in the East, as highlighted by Tamuno, has particularly resonated with younger Nigerians. Social media discussions often focus on how Town Development Unions and matching grants from the Eastern Nigeria Development Corporation enabled the construction of schools, hospitals, and libraries that continue to serve the region to this day. This model of grassroots governance, which Tamuno contrasted with the more centralised approach in the West, has been celebrated as a blueprint for sustainable development in contemporary Nigeria.

The Struggle for Recognition and Vindication

Tamuno’s assertion that “the Igbos are gradually being vindicated” reflects a broader struggle for recognition in Nigeria’s deeply divided society. For decades, the Igbo have been portrayed as aggressors and opportunists, a narrative that gained traction during the Civil War and its aftermath. Social media has provided a platform for Igbo voices to counter these stereotypes, using historical evidence to demonstrate their central role in building Nigeria.

For instance, the claim that Azikiwe’s leadership was instrumental in the founding of institutions like the University College, Ibadan, and the University of Lagos challenges the narrative that these achievements were exclusively Yoruba-driven. Similarly, discussions about the East’s superior public library system and its emphasis on literacy have highlighted the region’s intellectual contributions, which were often overshadowed by the more visible achievements of the West.

The Backlash Against Historical Revisionism

While social media has opened up new avenues for historical discourse, it has also sparked fierce resistance from those invested in maintaining the status quo. Critics of Tamuno’s work and the narratives it supports have accused him and his followers of revisionism, arguing that his focus on Igbo achievements downplays the contributions of other regions. This backlash, often fuelled by ethnic and political rivalries, underscores the deeply contentious nature of historical memory in Nigeria.

In many cases, these criticisms have centred on Tamuno’s dismissal of certain Yoruba “firsts” as mere prestige projects or white elephants. For instance, his critique of the Liberty Stadium and Cocoa House as symbolic rather than substantive achievements has drawn ire from Yoruba commentators who view these projects as milestones in regional and national development. Similarly, his emphasis on the tangible outcomes of Eastern Nigeria’s development programs has been framed as an attempt to undermine the legacy of Awolowo and other Yoruba leaders.

The Implications for Nigeria’s Future

The battle over historical narratives is more than an academic exercise; it has profound implications for Nigeria’s future. As Tamuno himself noted, a nation that fails to acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of all its people is doomed to remain divided and dysfunctional. Social media, with its ability to democratise access to information and amplify marginalised voices, offers a glimmer of hope for achieving what Chinua Achebe famously called “a balance of stories.”

However, the road to this balance is fraught with challenges. The entrenched power structures that have shaped Nigeria’s historical narratives are unlikely to relinquish their hold without a fight. As the backlash against Tamuno’s work demonstrates, any attempt to challenge the status quo will be met with resistance. Yet, the growing influence of social media suggests that the tide may be turning, with more Nigerians demanding truth and accountability from their leaders and intellectuals.

In the final section, we will delve deeper into the socio-political implications of Tamuno’s revelations, examining how his critiques of historical revisionism intersect with contemporary debates about governance, ethnicity, and national unity in Nigeria. Stay tuned for Batch 3, where we explore the enduring legacy of Professor Tekena Tamuno and the lessons his work offers for a more inclusive and equitable Nigeria.

---

Tamuno’s Legacy and the Struggle for a Balanced Nigerian Narrative

As we delve deeper into Professor Tekena Nitonye Tamuno’s groundbreaking critique of Nigeria’s historical revisionism, it becomes clear that his work extends beyond intellectual discourse. It is a clarion call for national introspection and an urgent reminder of the dangers of allowing one-sided narratives to dominate the public consciousness. His assertion that “the Igbos are the makers of modern Nigeria” is not merely a historical observation but a call to recognise the diverse contributions of all ethnic groups to the country’s development.

Ethnic Bias and the Distortion of Nigeria’s History

Tamuno’s revelations about the systematic rewriting of Nigeria’s history expose the perilous intersection of ethnicity and power. His criticism of the Yoruba-dominated press and its post-Civil War collaboration with northern elites underscores how historical narratives can be weaponised to serve political interests. By painting the Yoruba as the architects of Nigeria’s successes and the Igbo as perpetual scapegoats, these distortions have deepened ethnic divisions and stymied efforts at national unity.

The implications of this bias are profound. For decades, generations of Nigerians have been educated on a version of history that marginalises the Igbo contribution to nation-building while glorifying the achievements of other regions. This has perpetuated stereotypes, fuelled mistrust, and hindered the development of a truly inclusive national identity. Tamuno’s work challenges Nigerians to confront these uncomfortable truths and strive for a more equitable representation of their shared history.

One of the most contentious points in Tamuno’s critique is his dismantling of the myth surrounding Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s contributions. While acknowledging Awolowo’s achievements, Tamuno highlights the exaggerated claims surrounding his legacy, such as the narrative that he single-handedly introduced free education or established Nigeria’s foundational institutions. By providing evidence of the Eastern Region’s superior investment in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, Tamuno forces Nigerians to reevaluate their understanding of the country’s developmental history.

Igbo Contributions: A Blueprint for Development

Tamuno’s focus on the Eastern Region’s achievements between 1954 and 1964 offers a compelling counter-narrative to the prevailing historical orthodoxy. Under the leadership of Nnamdi Azikiwe and Michael Okpara, the East implemented policies and projects that set benchmarks for governance and development in Africa. From the establishment of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), to the creation of the Eastern Medical Services and the Onitsha Modern Market, the region demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to public welfare and economic progress.

The Eastern Region’s success in education stands out as a testament to the visionary leadership of its administrators. By allocating 45% of its revenue to education, the region achieved the highest school enrolment rates and literacy levels in Nigeria. Community-driven initiatives, supported by matching grants from the Eastern Nigeria Development Corporation, enabled the construction of schools, libraries, and hospitals that still serve the region today. This model of grassroots development, rooted in collective effort and self-reliance, remains a source of inspiration for contemporary governance.

The economic impact of projects like the Onitsha Modern Market, which Tamuno described as “effectively Dubai before Dubai,” cannot be overstated. As a hub of commerce and trade, the market attracted traders from across Africa, generating wealth and fostering economic integration. Similarly, the region’s investment in road networks and public health infrastructure laid the groundwork for sustained growth and social cohesion. These achievements challenge the narrative that Nigeria’s development was solely driven by Western Nigeria’s initiatives, highlighting the East’s pivotal role in shaping the country’s destiny.

The Political Weaponisation of History

Tamuno’s critique extends beyond historical distortion to address the political weaponisation of narratives. The rhetoric of “Igbo domination,” which gained prominence in the early 1960s, exemplifies how historical revisionism can be used to marginalise and scapegoat ethnic groups. By framing the Igbo as a threat to national unity, political elites exploited ethnic tensions to consolidate power and suppress dissent.

This strategy reached its zenith during the Nigerian Civil War, when the federal government, backed by international allies, waged a brutal campaign against Biafra. The propaganda machine, fuelled by a compliant press, portrayed the war as a fight against Igbo secessionism rather than a response to systemic injustices and targeted violence. Tamuno’s assertion that “when the Igbos abandoned their project, Nigeria collapsed” underscores the devastating consequences of sidelining a group that has consistently driven innovation and progress.

The enduring impact of this propaganda is evident in contemporary debates about resource allocation, political representation, and national unity. The stigmatisation of the Igbo has perpetuated cycles of exclusion and underdevelopment, hindering efforts to build a cohesive and prosperous Nigeria. Tamuno’s work challenges Nigerians to confront these legacies of division and work towards a future that recognises and celebrates the contributions of all ethnic groups.

Tamuno’s Call for a Balance of Stories

In his critique, Tamuno invokes Chinua Achebe’s concept of “a balance of stories” as a framework for addressing Nigeria’s historical injustices. By amplifying suppressed voices and challenging dominant narratives, Nigerians can create a more inclusive and accurate account of their shared history. This process requires not only a commitment to truth but also the courage to confront uncomfortable realities and acknowledge past mistakes.

Social media has emerged as a powerful tool in this endeavour, enabling individuals and communities to share their stories and challenge official accounts. From viral threads about Eastern Nigeria’s economic achievements to debates about the origins of Nigeria’s universities, these platforms have democratised access to information and fostered a new era of historical inquiry. However, the backlash against these efforts, as evidenced by the resistance to Tamuno’s work, underscores the challenges of achieving a balance of stories in a polarised society.

The Lessons of Tamuno’s Legacy

Professor Tekena Tamuno’s work offers valuable lessons for Nigeria as it grapples with its complex history and uncertain future. His insistence on truth, his commitment to scholarly rigor, and his advocacy for inclusivity provide a roadmap for addressing the country’s deep-seated divisions. By embracing these principles, Nigerians can begin to heal the wounds of the past and build a more united and equitable society.

One of the most important takeaways from Tamuno’s critique is the need for self-reliance and community-driven development. The Eastern Region’s achievements, rooted in collective effort and innovative governance, demonstrate the potential of local initiatives to drive national progress. This model, if replicated across Nigeria, could address the country’s developmental challenges and foster a sense of ownership and accountability among its citizens.

Furthermore, Tamuno’s work highlights the importance of education and historical awareness in fostering national unity. By teaching future generations about the contributions of all ethnic groups, Nigeria can create a more inclusive narrative that celebrates diversity and promotes mutual respect. This process requires not only curricular reforms but also a commitment to addressing the structural inequalities that perpetuate ethnic divisions.

A Vision for Nigeria’s Future

As Nigeria continues to navigate its post-independence challenges, Tamuno’s vision of a balanced and inclusive narrative remains more relevant than ever. His critique of historical revisionism serves as a reminder of the dangers of allowing ethnicity and politics to dictate the country’s story. By embracing truth and inclusivity, Nigeria can honor the contributions of all its people and build a future that reflects its collective potential.

In conclusion, Professor Tekena Tamuno’s legacy is a testament to the power of truth and the resilience of the human spirit. His work challenges Nigerians to confront their past, celebrate their diversity, and strive for a more just and equitable society. In a country where history has often been wielded as a weapon, his call for a balance of stories offers a path towards healing and unity. For Nigeria to truly fulfill its potential, it must embrace this vision and work towards a future that reflects the best of its shared heritage.