Atiku Abubakar, a former Nigerian Vice President, has strongly criticized a recent social media campaign using the hashtag “#IgboMustGo.”
This campaign is calling for the forced relocation of Igbo people from Lagos and other southwestern states.
In a statement on the platform X (formerly Twitter), Abubakar said this divisive rhetoric threatens Nigeria’s national unity and security. He condemned the promotion of this hashtag, which has been going on for over 72 hours on a pro-Lagos X account, @lagospedia.
Abubakar, a prominent politician, has taken a firm stance against this divisive campaign. He has emphasized the importance of maintaining national unity and security in Nigeria.
Social media users have revealed that an individual named Ifeoluwa Bolaji from Ikorodu is behind the pro-Lagos X account, @lagospedia, which has been promoting the “#IgboMustGo” campaign.
Atiku Abubakar has described this call for the forced relocation of Igbo people as “deeply troubling” and fundamentally opposed to Nigeria’s principles of unity and coexistence.
He stated that the constitutional right of every Nigerian to live and work freely anywhere in the country must be respected.
Abubakar warned that the “#IgboMustGo” campaign echoes the tragic events in Rwanda, and emphasized the importance of maintaining Nigeria’s unity and peaceful coexistence among all its citizens.
He stated, “The rhetoric of #IgboMustGo is not only divisive but also endangers our peace and security.
“We must learn from history and act decisively to prevent such dangerous ideologies from taking root.”
He has called on the Nigerian government to take strong action against those behind the “#IgboMustGo” campaign.
He wants the authorities to investigate, arrest, and prosecute the individuals promoting ethnic hatred and division. Abubakar stressed that the rule of law must be upheld to address this issue.
He further stated, “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 added, “Immediate action to arrest, investigate, and prosecute those behind this agenda is crucial.
“This will serve as a deterrent to others who might consider pursuing similar paths that threaten our national security.”