Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has condemned a protest tagged #IgboMustGo, aimed at demanding that people of South-East extraction living in Lagos and other states in the South-West region of Nigeria must leave the region and go back to the South-East region
Atiku, a former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 general elections, warned against the dangers and consequences of such protest, stressing that it fundamentally opposed the principles of unity and co-existence that defines Nigeria.
Atiku said this while reacting to a post on X by a pro-Lagos government X handle, @lagospedia, calling on stakeholders in Lagos and other South-West states to prepare for massive #IgboMustGo protest from August 20 to 30.
The post warned that people of South-East extraction, popularly known as Igbos have one month from July 27 when the post was made to leave the entire South-West region.
The post also asked Yoruba citizens living in the South-East to return to the South-West.
The post read, “Lagosians and every South-West stakeholders should prepare for the massive protest of #IgboMustGo on the 20th-30th of August.
“They have one month from now to leave and relocate their business from all South-West states. We urge all Yorubas living in the South-East to return home.”
In his reaction, Atiku said, “The recent call on X (formerly Twitter) for a protest under the hashtag #IgboMustGo, demanding the forced relocation of Igbo people from Lagos and other Southwest states, is deeply troubling and fundamentally opposed to the principles of unity and coexistence that define our nation.
“Such rhetoric is not only divisive but also endangers our peace and security, as our Constitution guarantees every Nigerian the right to live and work freely anywhere in the country.
“History has shown us the consequences of allowing hatred and bigotry to fester, as seen in Rwanda. What began with inflammatory rhetoric led to devastating outcomes. We must learn from these lessons and act decisively.
“I call on the Nigerian government and relevant authorities to take immediate and strong action against those inciting such hatred and division. It is imperative to investigate, arrest, and prosecute individuals promoting ethnic discrimination and violence.
“The rule of law must prevail, and those found guilty of incitement should face the full extent of legal consequences.
“Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity, and we must resist any efforts to sow discord among our people. Lagos and the Southwest have long been melting pots of cultures where individuals from various backgrounds contribute to our collective growth and development. The Igbo community, along with all other ethnic groups, is an integral part of this vibrant mosaic.
“I urge all Nigerians to stand united against this divisive rhetoric and to champion unity, tolerance, and understanding. Our future depends on our ability to live and work together harmoniously.
“The government and security agencies must act swiftly to protect this fundamental principle and ensure that every Nigerian can live free from fear of discrimination or persecution.
“It is alarming that, five days after this threat emerged, there has been a troubling silence. Immediate action to arrest, investigate, and prosecute those behind this heinous agenda is crucial.
“This will serve as a deterrent to others who might consider pursuing similar paths that threaten our national security.”