In recent years, Nigeria has largely managed to contain the passions generated by the ethnic, religious, and language differences that characterize its people. There is intense rivalry among the Hausa, Yoruba, and Ibo, the three main ethnic groups, as well as among the 245 smaller ones. Members of one group tend to blame those of another for their problems.
Religion is a particular source of tension.
Outbreaks of communal violence, particularly in the north, are frequently attributable to clashes between Muslim fundamentalists and Christian proselytizers. When the northern state of Zamfara took the controversial step of introducing Islamic sharia law in October 1999, President Obasanjo, a Christian, refused to attend the ceremony . Except in the Islamic north, women have traditionally possessed independent economic status. In recent years they have, however, been subjected to some prejudice in professional circles.