Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has strongly denounced the recent #IgboMustGo hashtag campaign on X (formerly Twitter), which advocates for the forced relocation of Igbo people from Lagos and other Southwest states.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Atiku described the rhetoric as “deeply troubling” and “fundamentally opposed” to Nigeria’s principles of unity and coexistence.
Atiku warned that such divisive language endangers peace and security, citing the country’s Constitution, which guarantees every Nigerian the right to live and work freely anywhere.
He drew parallels with Rwanda’s history, where inflammatory rhetoric led to devastating consequences.
The former VP urged the Nigerian government and authorities to take immediate action against those inciting hatred and division, calling for investigations, arrests, and prosecutions.
He emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law and promoting unity, tolerance, and understanding.
Atiku expressed concern over the government’s silence on the matter, five days after the threat emerged, and stressed the need for swift action to protect Nigeria’s diversity and ensure every citizen can live without fear of discrimination or persecution.
His statement reads in part, “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.
“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.”
