By Chukwuemeka Umesi
Kindly share this news
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has strongly condemned and dismissed reports circulating on social media calling for the expulsion of Igbo people from Lagos and Southwest Nigeria. The governor described the rhetoric as “reckless, divisive, and dangerous” and urged residents to ignore such posts and maintain peace in the
state, amidst rising ethnic tensions and concerns about hate speech.The reports, which emerged on a social media platform, called for a “massive hashtag IgboMustGo protest” from August 20th to 30th, 2024, sparking widespread concern and outrage among residents, community leaders, and human rights
groups. Governor Sanwo-Olu swiftly responded, distancing himself and the Lagos State Government from the divisive rhetoric and appealing to residents to remain calm.”Lagos remains home to every Nigerian citizen regardless of their ethnic nationality,” the governor said in a statement through his Special Adviser on Media and
Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile. “We will not allow any person or group of individuals to create tensions in our state. We are committed to ensuring that Lagos remains a melting pot of cultures, where everyone can live and thrive.”Sanwo-Olu’s response has been praised by many, who see it as a testament to his commitment to
maintaining peace and harmony in Lagos. However, others have expressed concern about the rise of divisive rhetoric in the country, particularly on social media, and the potential consequences for ethnic relations and national unity.Academic research has shown that social media can be a
breeding ground for hate speech and divisive rhetoric, which can have serious consequences if left unchecked. In this case, the reports calling for the expulsion of Igbo people from Lagos and Southwest Nigeria have the potential to create tensions and conflict between different ethnic groups, and undermine the country’s efforts to promote national
unity and reconciliation.Governor Sanwo-Olu’s response serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible leadership and the need for individuals to promote peace and understanding in their communities. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the government will address the rise of divisive rhetoric in the country and promote ethnic harmony and national unity.