Former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has strongly condemned the genocidal threats against the Igbo tribe, calling for their relocation, which have been trending on social media with the hashtag #IgboMustGo.
In a statement, Obi described the threats as “deeply disturbing” and warned that such rhetoric threatens Nigeria’s unity and is opposed to the Constitution.
He urged authorities to take immediate action to investigate, arrest, and prosecute those behind the threats, and to protect the fundamental principle of unity and ensure Nigerians can live free from fear of discrimination or persecution.
Obi emphasised the need for Nigerians to stand united against divisive rhetoric and champion unity, tolerance, and understanding, stressing that the country’s future depends on its ability to live and work together harmoniously.
“Similarly, and deeply disturbing, I have read genocidal threats on X against the Igbo tribe, calling for their relocation.
“Let me pointedly warn that such rhetoric threatens our unity and is fundamentally opposed to our Constitution, which guarantees every Nigerian the right to live and work freely anywhere in the country.
“Those in authority must show leadership and urgently speak out against such divisive rhetoric.
“Immediate action should be taken to investigate, arrest, and prosecute those behind this heinous agenda, serving as a deterrent to others who might consider pursuing similar paths that threaten our national security and unity.
“I urge all Nigerians to stand united against this divisive rhetoric and to champion unity, tolerance, and understanding. 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. We must not allow our present challenges to drive wedges among us.
“We can only overcome our national challenges if we act together as one people United under God,” he wrote.
This development comes amid growing concerns about ethnic tensions and hate speech in Nigeria. The government and security agencies have been called upon to act swiftly to address the situation and ensure national unity and security.
