Issues in State Creation and Inter-Group Relations in Delta State: A Historical Analysis

Abstract

The paper discusses the changing dynamics in inter-group relations in Delta state following its creation in 1991. It establishes that the process of state creation and the administrative reorganization that it necessitated has had adverse effects on inter-group relations in the state. The issues of conflict among the groups include competition over political positions in the state government, the choice of Asaba as the state capital and the location of local government headquarters. As a result, economic activities have been adversely affected with several lives and properties lost while there is a general state of insecurity in the state. The paper infers with the observation that while political and fiscal autonomy as has been suggested in related works is likely to enhance the chances for development and foster cooperation among groups, there is need for effective leadership devoid of corruption at all levels of governance. This is because the culture of brigandage perpetrated by past administrations in the state has largely accounted for inadequacies in social services, infrastructure and poor living standards. This, in turn, has led to general disaffection and the prevalence of intra and inter-group conflicts in the state.