2nd August 2024, NewsOrient
News, Law And Society

Lagos Governor Sanwo-Olu Asks Ndigbo To Ignore #IgboMustLeaveLagos Campaigners

Concerned Nigerians, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Mr Peter Obi, the 2023 Presidential Candidate Of Labour Party, have reacted to a fresh campaign in Lagos that Ndigbo must leave Lagos or they would be forced out!

The two Nigerian statesmen urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to react appropriately and swiftly to the campaign, which they said is “divisive,” “unconstitutional,” “dangerous,” “genocidal threat” capable of replicating the Rwandan tragedy in Nigeria.

As Atiku puts it on Thursday night: “Such rhetoric is not only divisive but also endangers our peace and security, as our Constitution guarantees every Nigerian the right to live and work freely anywhere in the country.

“History has shown us the consequences of allowing hatred and bigotry to fester, as seen in Rwanda.

“What began with inflammatory rhetoric led to devastating outcomes. We must learn from these lessons and act decisively.

“I call on the Nigerian government and relevant authorities to take immediate and strong action against those inciting such hatred and division. It is imperative to investigate, arrest, and prosecute individuals promoting ethnic discrimination and violence.

“The rule of law must prevail, and those found guilty of incitement should face the full extent of legal consequences.

“Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity, and we must resist any efforts to sow discord among our people.

“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.

“I urge all Nigerians to stand united against this divisive rhetoric and to champion unity, tolerance, and understanding. Our future depends on our ability to live and work together harmoniously.

“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.

“It is alarming that, five days after this threat emerged, there has been a troubling silence.

“Immediate action to arrest, investigate, and prosecute those behind this heinous agenda is crucial. This will serve as a deterrent to others who might consider pursuing similar paths that threaten our national security,” the former Vice President of Nigeria and Presidential Candidate Of the People’s Democratic Party in the 2023 Elections said.

Peter Obi also reacted on Friday. He wrote: “Similarly, and deeply disturbing, I have read genocidal threats on X against the Igbo tribe, calling for their relocation.

“Let me pointedly warn that such rhetoric threatens our unity and is fundamentally opposed to our Constitution, which guarantees every Nigerian the right to live and work freely anywhere in the country.

“Those in authority must show leadership and urgently speak out against such divisive rhetoric.

“Immediate action should be taken to investigate, arrest, and prosecute those behind this heinous agenda, serving as a deterrent to others who might consider pursuing similar paths that threaten our national security and unity.

“I urge all Nigerians to stand united against this divisive rhetoric and to champion unity, tolerance, and understanding.

“Our future depends on our ability to live and work together harmoniously. 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.

“We must not allow our present challenges to drive wedges among us. We can only overcome our national challenges if we act together as one people United under God. – PO”

In his reaction to the development, Lagos State Governor, Sanwo-Olu has been quoted as saying Ndigbo in Lagos should ignore the campaign.

Photo Credit: BBC

~ NewsOrient