A recent poll conducted by Mallam Jabir, a chieftain in the Obidient movement, has sparked heated debate across Nigeria.
The poll, which asked, “Which tribe is the most tolerant and trustworthy in Nigeria?” invited respondents to choose among the Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba ethnic groups.
Mallam Jabir emphasized that the poll was solely for educational purposes and had no political motives. The poll attracted 33,658 votes, with the Igbo leading at 52%, followed by the Yoruba with 26%, and the Hausa with 22%.
The poll, however, drew sharp criticism from the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Benjamin Hundeyin, who described it as a “rubbish poll.” His comments have since become the center of controversy, with some accusing the police of bias, especially against the Igbo, who led the poll.
Adding to the discourse, an X user named Harry posted a screenshot of SP Hundeyin’s comment, accompanied by a sarcastic remark, “Hehehehehe! Police is your friend.” In response, SP Hundeyin clarified his stance, explaining that his disapproval was not influenced by the poll’s outcome. He stated, “Sorry o. My opinion has nothing to do with the outcome. I gave my opinion on the divisive poll early before the result came out (check the time stamp on the post and my comment). We shouldn’t make divisive posts and mask it with ‘for educational purposes.’”
The incident has sparked broader discussions about the role of public institutions, ethnic sensitivity, and the potential harm caused by divisive narratives in Nigeria’s multicultural society.
