39

For forty years Nigeria has separated its body of citizens in two parts, indigenes and non indigenes. Indigene citizens can trace their genealogical roots back to a community in a specific locality, and local governments issue indigene certificates certifying this origin. This article explores the relationship between local bureaucrats, intermediaries, and users seeking this certificate in three Nigerian states. Analysis demonstrates how applicants take on these procedures, how the bureaucratic relationship is an ordinary apprenticeship in the state that redefines belonging as an exclusive local citizenship, and the conditions under which issuing documents becomes a controversial political issue.