Outrage has been expressed by the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, over the reported threat against Ndigbo in Lagos and other South-West states.
There have been calls on social media under the trending hashtag #IgboMustGo demanding the forced relocation of Igbo people from Lagos and other Southwest states, as reported by NewsNow.
Former Vice President of Nigeria, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has reacted to the threat, stating that it is not only divisive but also endangers peace and security.
In a statement shared with NewsNow on Thursday night, the National President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike, warned that any attack on Ndigbo in any part of the country would have dire consequences.
Titled ‘Enough is Enough’, Okwu vowed that Ndigbo would respond accordingly if attacked in any part of the country, emphasizing that the people of the South-East had tolerated unprovoked attacks for too long.
Asserting their bravery, Okwu noted, “We warn those inciting discord not to mistake the calmness of the lion for weakness. Any assault on Ndigbo will be met with a strong response.”
Highlighting the longstanding struggles faced by Ndigbo in the country, he reiterated, “We are not subordinate citizens; no one is more Nigerian than the Igbos.”
Emphasizing the resilience of Ndigbo, Okwu stated, “For decades, Ndigbo have borne the brunt of every crisis in this country. We decline to partake in protests that may be labeled as Igbo, yet the threats against us persist.”
He warned, “Any attack on an Igbo person or their properties will not go unanswered. We are integral to this nation, and no one should threaten the Igbo anymore.”
Calling for swift action, the Ohanaeze Youth President urged security agencies to apprehend those behind the “genocidal threats” against Ndigbo, cautioning that failure to do so would raise suspicions of complicity.
He also called on the Federal Government to address the issue promptly, emphasizing the need to arrest and prosecute individuals inciting violence in the country.
Reiterating his support for the current administration, Okwu commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government, advocating for the equitable development of the South-East and the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
He added, “We will continue to push for additional states for the region, balanced appointments reflecting federal character principles, and corrections of existing imbalances.”