Expediency In Uprooting Seeds Of #IgboMustGo And Sowing Seeds Of Harmony, Progress

BY ISAAC ASABOR

The social media landscape is currently ablaze with the controversial hashtag #IgboMustGo. This provocative call to action has sparked heated debates, increased tensions, and highlighted underlying ethnic divisions in Lagos and the South-West region of Nigeria. But what exactly is this hashtag about, and how has it affected the social fabric of our vibrant city?

On July 27, 2024, @Lagospedia’s post on X (formerly Twitter) went viral. The post urged Lagosians to brace themselves for a massive #IgboMustGo protest on August 20-30, 2024. The inflammatory message sparked reactions across social media platforms, bringing attention to simmering tensions between ethnic groups.

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu was quick to condemn the divisive rhetoric. In a statement issued by his media adviser, Gboyega Akosile, Sanwo-Olu distanced himself from the reckless call for Igbos to flee Lagos. He emphasised that Lagos remains home to all Nigerian citizens, regardless of ethnicity.

Given the preceding divisive backdrop, it is prudent to argue that as we navigate these turbulent times, we must recognise the power of communication. Hashtags, tweets, and social media posts can influence public opinion, policy, and even exacerbate existing tensions. As a result, responsible communication is essential for preserving peace and unity in our diverse society.

Given the evil nature of tribalism, it is not surprising that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar recently invoked Rwanda’s tragic history, urging Nigerians to learn from it. In Rwanda, divisive language and propaganda fuelled the 1994 genocide. As responsible citizens, we must resist attempts to sow discord among ourselves and instead promote dialogue, understanding, and empathy.

Given the foregoing, it is not a stretch to argue that the #IgboMustGo hashtag serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance we must strike in our interconnected world. Let us prioritise unity over division, empathy over hostility, and responsible communication over reckless rhetoric. Let us prioritise unity over division, empathy over hostility, and responsible communication over reckless rhetoric.

In fact, we should always remember that our strength comes from our diversity, and that by working together, we can create a more harmonious and prosperous future for all. Dr. Emeka Kalu, a Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, has urged Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Seyi Makinde of Lagos and Oyo states, respectively, to arrest and prosecute those threatening the continued presence of Igbos in their states.

Given the danger that the hashtag conveys to the public, particularly between the Igbos and virtually all Non-Yorubas in the Southwest region of Nigeria, as anyone who does not speak or understand Yoruba is misconstrued as an Igbo, and conversely, the Yorubas living peacefully in the South-East region, and even the South-South region of Nigeria are put at risk, as any attempt to hurt the Igbos in the South-West would undoubtedly incur retaliatory responses in other regions. In fact, Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, has spoken out against the idea of relocating Igbos from Lagos state.

In the same vein, Dr. Emeka Kalu, a Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, has urged Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Seyi Makinde of Lagos and Oyo states, respectively, to arrest and prosecute those threatening Igbo Nigerians living in the two states.

At this point, it is important to recall that the #IgboMustGo protest, which began on social media last month, gave Igbos living in the two states until August 20, 2024 to leave the South West.

However, several Nigerians of various backgrounds condemned the campaign, and Sanwo-Olu had already chastised the campaigners, as previously mentioned in this context.

Kalu, in a statement signed by him and distributed to journalists in Lagos, described the campaign as a stigmatisation of the Igbos.

The politician insisted that such unguarded statements, among other things, undermined the bond of unity that binds the country together as one nation.

He explained that it was the government’s responsibility to pursue those making such unguarded statements.

He lamented that the country was currently facing hunger as a result of the dwindling economy, which sparked the ongoing nationwide protest, and questioned why some people were still fanning the flames of hatred.

He said, “I strongly condemn the call by some sentiment-driven youths in the Southwest for people of Igbo descent who live in Lagos and Oyo States to leave the region.

“In the interest of fairness, the government is expected to take action by arresting and prosecuting the perpetrators.”

“Aside from this action, it would be deceitful on the part of the government to allow some individuals to stoke the political crisis.”

He emphasised that a nation defending a common brotherhood should not take such divisive statements lightly, as they have the potential to ignite another dimension of uprising and crisis in the country.

He declared that the country’s economic distress was never caused by Igbo residents in Lagos, which would justify their eviction; rather, he stated that their business investments had continued to impact the Lagos State economy and the entire federation.

He advised the federal government to press security agencies to identify those who orchestrated hate speech and division.

In a similar vein, Afenifere, a pan-Yoruba socio-cultural and sociopolitical organisation, has urged all Nigerians living legitimately in any part of Yorubaland to have no concerns about their safety or being forced to leave the area.

At this point, it is reasonable to conclude that tribalism, like a stubborn weed, has taken root in the fertile soil of Nigeria’s social fabric. It thrives on division, reinforcing stereotypes and impeding progress. It is past time that we recognise its negative consequences and work towards a more united nation.

In fact, tribalism is defined as preferring one’s own ethnic group over others. It manifests in a variety of ways. This is because people have biases against people from other tribes, which are often based on historical events or cultural differences.

In a similar vein, tribal loyalty results in preferential treatment within communities, affecting employment, education, and social interactions; in some cases, intertribal marriages are discouraged, perpetuating separation and limiting understanding among groups.

Tribalism’s historical origins can be traced back to colonial times and the slave trade. The divide-and-rule tactics used by colonial powers left lasting scars. Today, tribalism endures, fuelled by political elites, media narratives, and inherited biases.

Unfortunately, tribalism has numerous disadvantages, the most notable of which is that when tribal loyalty trumps national interest, development suffers, particularly when competent individuals are overlooked because of their tribal identity.

In a similar vein, communities remain divided, impeding cooperation and collective problem-solving, and politicians use tribal sentiments for personal gain, perpetuating discord.

At this point, it is appropriate to ask, “Are there available solutions to address the challenges posed by tribalism?” Yes, there are solutions.

Addressing the challenges through education and awareness, it is imperative that our children in schools learn about the history and impact of tribalism, as well as promote intercultural understanding in schools and the media.

In a similar vein, political leaders must always prioritise national unity over tribal interests, especially during electoral campaigns, while also encouraging cross-ethnic dialogue and collaboration while in office.

Again, media outlets should avoid sensationalising tribal differences and instead focus on stories of unity and shared accomplishments, while in terms of legal reforms, the government should work to amend the constitution to discourage tribal favouritism and enforce hate speech and discrimination laws.

The reasons for the foregoing viewpoints are not farfetched, as Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity. Let us condemn tribalism, celebrate our common humanity, and envision a future in which unity triumphs over division. Together, we can pull this weed and plant seeds of peace and progress.