Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has voiced strong condemnation of the recent #IgboMustGo movement on X (formerly Twitter), which calls for the forced relocation of the Igbo people from Lagos and other Southwest states.
In a statement posted on his X handle, Abubakar expressed deep concern over the divisive and dangerous nature of the rhetoric associated with this hashtag.
“The recent calls for a protest under the hashtag #IgboMustGo are deeply troubling and fundamentally opposed to the principles of unity and coexistence that define our nation,” Abubakar stated. “Such rhetoric not only fosters division but also threatens our peace and security, as our Constitution guarantees every Nigerian the right to live and work freely anywhere in the country.”
Abubakar drew parallels to historical tragedies, emphasizing the destructive consequences of allowing hatred and bigotry to proliferate. “History has shown us the devastating effects of unchecked hate, as seen in Rwanda. What began with inflammatory rhetoric led to catastrophic outcomes. We must learn from these lessons and act decisively.”
He called on the Nigerian government and relevant authorities to take immediate and robust action against those inciting hatred and division. “It is imperative to investigate, arrest, and prosecute those promoting ethnic discrimination and violence. The rule of law must prevail, and those guilty of incitement should face the full extent of legal consequences.”
Highlighting the importance of Nigeria’s diversity, Abubakar reaffirmed the value of multicultural integration. “Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity. Lagos and the Southwest have long been cultural melting pots where people from various backgrounds contribute to our collective growth. The Igbo community, along with all other ethnic groups, is an integral part of this vibrant mosaic.”
He urged all Nigerians to unite against divisive rhetoric and advocate for tolerance and understanding. “Our future hinges on our ability to live and work together harmoniously. The government and security agencies must act swiftly to uphold this fundamental principle and ensure that every Nigerian can live free from fear of discrimination or persecution.”
Abubakar also expressed alarm over the lack of action five days after the threat emerged, calling for immediate measures to investigate and address the situation. “Immediate action is crucial to arrest, investigate, and prosecute those behind this agenda. This will serve as a deterrent to others who might consider pursuing similar threats against our national security.”
