Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the social media campaign #IgboMustGo, which calls for Lagosians and people of the South-West to forcefully expel Igbo people from Lagos and other South-West states between August 20 and 30, 2024.
The campaign, sponsored by a group named ‘Lagospedia’ known for promoting hatred against other tribes in the South-West, urged Lagosians in a post on X on Thursday to drive Igbo people out of Lagos.
“Lagosians and every S’West stakeholder should prepare for a massive protest of #IgboMustGo from August 20 to 30,” the group wrote.
“They have one month from now to leave and relocate their businesses from all Southwest states. We urge all Yorubas living in the S’East to return home,” the Lagospedia group added.
In response, Atiku issued a statement on his X handle on Friday, describing the campaign as deeply troubling and fundamentally opposed to Nigeria’s principles of unity and coexistence.
He urged the government to take immediate action against those inciting ethnic hatred.
“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,” the former VP said.
“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.”
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