Atiku Abubakar, a former presidential candidate of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), has urged the Federal Government to arrest and prosecute individuals advocating for the mass relocation of Igbos from Lagos and other Southwest states.
In a statement made via his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, Atiku responded to a call for the forced deportation of Igbos from Lagos and the Southwest region, scheduled to start from August 20 and end on August 30. He condemned this rhetoric as both divisive and a threat to national peace and security. Atiku pointed out that there has been a “troubling silence” five days after these calls surfaced on social media. He emphasized the need for those behind this campaign to face legal consequences to deter future incitement.
Atiku's statement reads:
“The recent call on X (formerly Twitter) for a protest under the hashtag #IgboMustGo, demanding the forced relocation of Igbo people from Lagos and other Southwest states, is deeply troubling and fundamentally opposed to the principles of unity and coexistence that define our nation. 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."
Atiku criticized the calls for mass deportation, labeling them as fundamentally opposed to the nation's principles of unity and coexistence. He emphasized that such calls endanger peace and security, highlighting that Nigeria's Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to live and work 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.”
Atiku drew a parallel between the current situation and the historical events in Rwanda, where inflammatory rhetoric led to severe consequences. He stressed the importance of learning from such events and taking decisive action against hate and bigotry.
“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.”
Atiku urged the Nigerian government and relevant authorities to act promptly and firmly against those inciting hatred and division. He called for thorough investigations, arrests, and prosecutions of individuals promoting ethnic discrimination and violence, asserting that the rule of law must be upheld and that those found guilty should face severe 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.”
He emphasized Nigeria's strength in its diversity, describing Lagos and the Southwest as cultural melting pots where people from various backgrounds contribute to national growth and development. He affirmed that the Igbo community, like all other ethnic groups, is a vital part of this diverse 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.”
Atiku called on all Nigerians to stand against divisive rhetoric and support unity, tolerance, and understanding. He stressed that the nation's future relies on harmonious coexistence and urged the government and security agencies to act quickly to protect this principle and ensure that every Nigerian can live without 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.” -AA
Atiku expressed concern over the lack of response five days after the emergence of the threat. He emphasized the need for immediate action to arrest, investigate, and prosecute those behind the incitement, stating that such actions are crucial to deterring others who might consider similar threats to national security.
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