An Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has called for an end to various forms of attacks, including ethnic slurs, against the Igbo community, especially in Lagos State.
In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Dr. Chiedozie Ogbonnia, Ohanaeze expressed concern over the #IgboMustGo slogan that emerged during a recent nationwide protest, labeling it as worrisome and constituting ethnic profiling and hate speech.
The organization highlighted a pattern of ethnic attacks against the Igbo in Nigeria, particularly in Lagos State, and urged for this trend to cease, emphasizing the need for government intervention to address the issue.
Ohanaeze warned that without decisive action, the targeted hate speech and attacks on Igbo residents in Lagos State would persist, stressing the importance of holding those responsible for such actions accountable.
The organization recalled past incidents where threats and acts of violence were directed towards the Igbo community in Lagos, citing instances involving political figures and thugs targeting Igbo residents based on their ethnicity.
In response to these incidents, Ohanaeze commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, and the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, for denouncing the divisive #IgboMustGo slogan and promoting unity among different ethnic groups in Lagos.
The organization praised the efforts of Sanwo-Olu, the state government, and Afenifere in condemning the slogan and reassuring all Nigerians living in Lagos of their safety and right to reside in the area without fear of discrimination or forced eviction.
Ohanaeze also acknowledged the positive role played by former President Olusegun Obasanjo in advocating for inclusivity and merit-based leadership, particularly in supporting the Igbo community’s involvement in national affairs.