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    #IgboMustGo: Atiku Condemns Calls To Relocate Igbo From Lagos

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    Former Vice President of Nigeria and 2023 Peoples Democratic Party presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has condemned the recent genocidal threats against Igbos living in Lagos and other Southwest states.

    On Thursday, Atiku expressed his concerns via his @X (formerly @Twitter) account, criticizing the protest call under the hashtag #IgboMustGo, which demands the forced relocation of Igbos from the region.

    The X handle @Lagospedia, which claims to be “proclaiming the virtues of Lagos,” has gained notoriety for publishing hate comments against the Igbo ethnic group.

    Most recently, it called for Igbos to be pushed out of the Southwest, sparking widespread condemnation.

    The handle, which described the nationwide #EndBadGovernance as an Igbo-led attack on Lagos State, called for the forced relocation of Igbo to take place from August 20 to 30.

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    “Lagosians and every Southwest stakeholder should prepare for the massive protest of #IgboMustGo on the 20th – 30th of August.

    “They have one month from now to leave and relocate their business from all Southwest states. We urge all Yorubas living in the Southeast to return home,” the handle whose handler is unknown said.

    Sam Amadi, former chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and a legal practitioner, has petitioned Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun to investigate and prosecute those responsible for the hate speeches.

    The petition, received by the IGP’s office on Wednesday, highlights a pattern of organized hate narratives, particularly during the last general election.

    In his statement, Atiku emphasized the importance of national unity and coexistence, condemning the divisive rhetoric as a threat to peace and security.

    He highlighted the historical lessons of allowing hatred and bigotry to fester, referencing the Rwandan genocide as a stark warning.

    “The recent call 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 stated.

    “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 called on the Nigerian government and relevant authorities to take immediate and strong action against those inciting such hatred and division, emphasizing the need to investigate, arrest, and prosecute individuals promoting ethnic discrimination and violence.

    He urged all Nigerians to stand united against this divisive rhetoric and to champion unity, tolerance, and understanding.

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    “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 said.

    “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’s statement concluded with a call for immediate action: “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.”

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