Former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has called on the Federal Government to investigate, arrest, and prosecute those behind the trending #IgboMustGo campaign on social media platform X.
The campaign, which has gained traction recently, warns Igbos living in the South West to vacate the region within a month and threatens a protest against the tribe from August 20th to 30th, 2024. Additionally, the campaign advises Yorubas in the South-West to leave the South-East.
According to Channels, Atiku expressed deep concern over the proposed forceful ejection of South-East citizens from the South-West, describing it as divisive and dangerous.
He emphasized that such rhetoric threatens national unity and security, as the Nigerian Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to live and work freely anywhere in the country.
Drawing parallels to the Rwandan genocide, he warned of the dire consequences of allowing hatred and bigotry to fester.
“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,” Atiku stated. “Such rhetoric endangers our peace and security. We must learn from history and act decisively.”
He urged the Nigerian government and relevant authorities to take immediate and strong action against those inciting such hatred.
Atiku called for the investigation, arrest, and prosecution of individuals promoting ethnic discrimination and violence, stressing that the rule of law must prevail.
“Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity,” Atiku added. “We must resist any efforts to sow discord among our people. The Igbo community, along with all other ethnic groups, is an integral part of this vibrant mosaic.”
Atiku called on all Nigerians to stand united against divisive rhetoric and champion unity, tolerance, and understanding.
He criticized the government’s silence five days after the threat emerged, urging immediate action to serve as a deterrent to others who might threaten national security….Seē _ Morē
