Atiku denounces #IgboMustGo campaign

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned the recent #IgboMustGo campaign on social media, which calls for the forced removal of Igbo people from Lagos and other Southwestern states from August 20 to 30, 2024.

The campaign, allegedly propagated by Lagospedia on its social media handle, urged Lagosians and stakeholders in the Southwest to prepare for a mass protest against the Igbo community, demanding they relocate their businesses from the region, ThisDay reported.

Lagospedia also called for Yorubas living in the Southeast to return home.

In response, Atiku released a statement on his X account, expressing deep concern over the campaign.

He described it as “deeply troubling” and “fundamentally opposed” to Nigeria’s values of unity and coexistence. “The recent call on X 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,” Atiku stated.

He emphasized that such divisive rhetoric poses a threat to peace and security, as the Nigerian Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to live and work freely anywhere in the country. Drawing parallels to historical events, Atiku warned against allowing hatred and bigotry to spread unchecked, citing the devastating consequences seen in Rwanda.

Atiku called on the Nigerian government and relevant authorities to take immediate and decisive action against those inciting hatred and division. He stressed the need to investigate, arrest, and prosecute individuals promoting ethnic discrimination and violence, asserting that the rule of law must prevail.

Highlighting Nigeria’s strength in its diversity, Atiku noted, “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.”

He urged all Nigerians to stand united against divisive rhetoric and promote unity, tolerance, and understanding. Atiku called for swift action from the government and security agencies to protect the principle of coexistence and ensure that every Nigerian can live free from fear of discrimination or persecution.

Atiku also pointed out the alarming silence five days after the threat emerged, stressing the urgency of arresting, investigating, and prosecuting those behind the campaign to serve as a deterrent to others who might threaten national security.