Former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Denocratic Party, PDP, Atiku Abubakar, has strongly condemned the recent call for a protest on X (formerly Twitter) under the hashtag #IgboMustGo, demanding the forced relocation of Igbo people from Lagos and other Southwest states.
Atiku described the rhetoric as “deeply troubling” and “fundamentally opposed to the principles of unity and coexistence that define our nation.”
He warned that such divisive language endangers peace and security, citing the Constitution’s guarantee of every Nigerian’s right to live and work freely anywhere in the country.
Atiku drew parallels with Rwanda’s history, where inflammatory rhetoric led to devastating consequences, emphasizing the need to learn from these lessons and act decisively.
He called on the Nigerian government and relevant authorities to take immediate and strong action against those inciting hatred and division.
Atiku emphasized the importance of investigating, arresting, and prosecuting individuals promoting ethnic discrimination and violence, ensuring the rule of law prevails.
He celebrated Nigeria’s diversity, urging Nigerians to stand united against divisive rhetoric and champion unity, tolerance, and understanding.
Atiku stressed that the government and security agencies must act swiftly to protect the fundamental principle of harmonious coexistence.
He expressed alarm at the “troubling silence” five days after the threat emerged, urging immediate action to arrest, investigate, and prosecute those behind the #IgboMustGo agenda.
Atiku concluded that decisive action would serve as a deterrent to others who might consider pursuing similar paths that threaten national security.
“The government and security agencies must act swiftly to protect this fundamental principle and ensure that every Nigerian can live free from fear of discrimination or persecution,” Atiku said.
