Local Assemblies as a Transformed Indigenous Public Sphere: Nature, Operations and Impact on Political Efficacy and Participation in Ilorin Metropolis

Abstract

Few studies have explored the ways in which indigenous people achieve political sensitisation and mobilisation with the use of local assemblies. This paper draws its data from interviews with members of a local assembly among whom are historians, educators and entrepreneurs. Through their spoken words, it identifies how Ilorin people have used indigenous public spheres to enhance political
efficacy and participation. Research participants emphasised the importance of local assemblies as Ilorin people's discursive arenas where socio-political issues are deliberated on and attempts are also made to influence members' perceptions of public policies. Through their accounts, a picture emerges of the potency of local assemblies as indigenous public spheres which play critical roles in shaping both personal and political lives of members. Based on the findings, local assemblies in Ilorin are seen by the residents as part of their culture, passion and means of strengthening brotherhood. It was, therefore, recommended, among others, that further studies be carried out to investigate whether or not there is a link between local assemblies and social vices prevalent among some of the assemblies' members.