The reasons for political instability in Nigeria after Independence are:
(i) Economic mismanagement: Politicians embarked on prestigious and economically unviable projects which did not benefit the citizens.
(ii) Embezzlement and mismanagement: There was embezzlement and misappropriation of public funds by different regimes.
(iii)Election rigging and persecution of political opponents remain the order of the day.
(iv) There is complete disregard for the constitution and the rule of law.
(v) There is tribalism and nepotism, particularly in the appointment of public officers and in the distribution of amenities.
(vi) There is always disagreement on the revenue allocation formula and control of resources among the ethnic groups.
(vii)There is political interference in military affairs.
(viii)There is wide spread of religious intolerance and violence which threatened national unity
(ix) The politicians engage in a lot of bribery and corruption.
(x) The initial psychological impact of coups in neighbouring African states also led to instability in Nigeria.
(xi) The desire of political leaders to stay long in power is also responsible for the instability.
(xii)Census figures which were inflated by the component regions or states that make up the country also led to political instability.
(xiii)There is economic hardship caused by inflation and unemployment.
(xiv)External influence from big nations and institutions also promote instability in the country.