Atiku has described such crusade as a “divisive rhetoric”, warning it may trigger violent hatred and bigotry to fester across the nation as seen in Rwanda” today. Image/ gettyimages
EPICSTORIAN – The 2023 Presidential candidate of the People’s Democratical Party (PDP), and a former governor of Adamawa State, Atiku Abubakar, has called on the Federal government of Nigeria to arrest and prosecute Nigerians demanding for the relocation of Igbos from Lagos and other Southwest states.
Atiku drew this emphasis on an X social media post, stating that such demands are “fundamentally opposed to the principles of unity and coexistence that define our nation”.
Reacting to a recent post, which requested that all Igbos in Lagos and other Southwest states should be deported to the southeast region beginning August 20 to 30, Atiku described such crusade as a “divisive rhetoric”, warning it may trigger hatred and bigotry to fester as seen in Rwanda” today.
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‘’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,” Atiku wrote.
“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.
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“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.”
Atiku says Federal government must respond swiftly to give every Nigerian the sense of belonging
He noted the essence of the federal government intervention as to ensure that to ‘every Nigerian live free from fear of discrimination and persecution‘ no matter where they reside in Nigeria, calling on the investigation and arrest of those behind this championship of disunity.
“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. -AA”’
The former governor expressed worries that, if those behind the eviction notice to Igbo people are not brought to book, Nigerians will continue to be discriminated against by fellow Nigerians anywhere in the country.
