By Michael Craigg

Tensions between two main ethnic groups clash in Nigeria, as their newly elected president assumes his role in Nigerian politics. General Olusegun Obasanjo, Nigeria's president-elect, gained his victory late February. Many Nigeria fear that Obasanjo's term will be a continuation of military rule. Zaccheaus Jatto, 35, a musician for a local band, said he believes the country will spilt over the election.

"If the presidency goes to Obasanjo," he said, "this Nigeria is going to divide." Other Nigerians, like Moses Amidiobi, 45, a businessman, who have been exposed to Nigeria's vast military dictatorship, said they believe Obasanjo will give the power of government back into the hands of the people.

"It is only ObasanjoÖwho can hold everybody together," he said. "He is the only one who can hold both civilians and the military together so that the country does not disintergrate." According to the New York Times, Ole Falae, a former challenger, attacked Obasanjo, naming him a soldier in civilian disguise.

"The choice to be madeÖis the choice between a genuine civilian democracy and the continuation of military rule," he said. Obasanjo's recent triumph ended 16 long years of military reign. Nigeria's three biggest ethnic groups make more than 60 percent of the population.

The Hausa-Fauni are at the top, followed by the Yorba and the Ibo. Both Falae and Obasanjo are Yorba from the southwest of Nigeria. But Falae gained more support from the Yorba, because of their distrust in Obasanjo, and his involvement in the north. Obasanjo is scheduled to take over the Nigerian government on May 29.