The #IgboMustGo campaign faces strong criticism from Atiku, who calls for unity and inclusivity. Find out more about his position.
Atiku Abubakar, the ex-Vice President, has criticized the recent social media campaign #IgboMustGo that demands coercive expulsion of Igbo people from Lagos and other Southwestern states between August 20 to 30 in 2024.
According to ThisDay’s report, Lagospedia supposedly initiated a campaign on its social media platform encouraging Lagos residents and Southwest stakeholders to organize a protest demanding the relocation of Igbo-owned businesses from the area.
Lagospedia urged Yorubas residing in the Southeast to come back home.
Atiku expressed his deep concern over the campaign by releasing a statement on his X account in response.
Atiku stated that the recent call for a protest under #IgboMustGo, which demands to forcibly relocate Igbo people from Lagos and other Southwest states, is contrary to Nigeria’s values of unity and coexistence.
He described it as “deeply troubling” and something that fundamentally opposes the principles on which our nation relies.
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He stressed that employing divisive language puts peace and security at risk, given that the Nigerian Constitution affirms every individual’s entitlement to reside and work without constraint throughout the nation.
Atiku highlighted how historical incidents illustrate the dangers of permitting animosity and intolerance free reign, citing Rwanda as an example with catastrophic consequences.
Atiku urged Nigerian authorities to swiftly and firmly deal with personalities instigating animosity and disunity, emphasizing the importance of thoroughly probing, detaining, and charging any individual responsible for promoting ethnic bias or aggression.
He underscored that adherence to due process is crucial.
Atiku emphasized the diverse strengths of Nigeria by pointing out that Lagos and the Southwest regions have always been places where different cultures blend to ensure our progress and advancement.
He acknowledged that all ethnic groups, including Igbo community, make up an important feature in this colorful mosaic.
Atiku implored Nigerians to come together in solidarity against any language or action of division, and instead work towards fostering unity, acceptance, and comprehension. Additionally, he urged the government as well as law enforcement agencies to act promptly towards safeguarding co-existence values while guaranteeing that every Nigerian is able to live without worry about being persecuted or oppressed.
Atiku emphasized the need for swift action five days after the threat appeared, stating that it is crucial to apprehend, probe and bring to justice those responsible for such activities in order to prevent others from endangering national security.
