And the reasons vary, from historical rivalries between two divergent societies to tribal affinities or simply the natural bias and prejudice people living in rural areas and those in cities have towards one another.
These contradictions are particularly heightened in a number of states because of the insecurity that has mostly affected farming communities in the rural areas, who have been left without any means of livelihood.
Yet, historical precedents matter. In Kaduna, voters once favoured politicians from small towns, but in recent elections, they have voted for candidates representing Zaria, while in Katsina, voters have only once rewarded a governorship candidate from a big city.
