Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu Condemns Divisive Xenophobic Threats Against Igbo Residents in Lagos State

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has strongly condemned a social media campaign urging Igbo people to leave Lagos and the Southwest region of Nigeria. The governor’s swift response came in the wake of a controversial post by the ‘LagosPedia’ account on X (formerly Twitter), which threatened to organize an ‘#IgboMustGo’ protest from August 20th to 30th, 2024. This immediate and firm stance against the divisive message demonstrates the administration’s zero-tolerance policy towards xenophobic rhetoric and its commitment to fostering unity among Lagos’ diverse populace.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s unequivocal condemnation was conveyed through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile. The promptness and clarity of the governor’s response underscore the Lagos State Government’s dedication to maintaining peace and harmony in Africa’s largest metropolis. By swiftly addressing the issue, Sanwo-Olu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting the rights and well-being of all Lagos residents, regardless of their ethnic background, thereby reinforcing the city’s status as a welcoming home for all Nigerians.

The Controversial Social Media Post

The social media account ‘LagosPedia’, which had amassed approximately 42,000 followers on X, suddenly disappeared on Thursday following the backlash against its inflammatory post. The account’s disappearance raised questions about the origins and intentions behind the xenophobic campaign.

The proposed ‘#IgboMustGo’ protest, if it had materialized, could have potentially sparked ethnic tensions and disrupted the social fabric of Lagos. The incident highlights the power of social media to influence public opinion and the need for responsible online behavior.

Lagos Government’s Official Stance

Gboyega Akosile, speaking on behalf of Governor Sanwo-Olu, emphatically distanced the Lagos State Government from what he described as “reckless, divisive and dangerous rhetoric” shared via the ‘LagosPedia’ account. This clear dissociation demonstrates the government’s intolerance for hate speech and discriminatory messages.

The official statement reaffirmed that Lagos remains home to all Nigerian citizens, regardless of their ethnic background. This inclusive stance aligns with Lagos’ reputation as a melting pot of cultures and Nigeria’s economic hub.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s Vision for a United Lagos

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s response to the incident reflects his vision for a united and harmonious Lagos. The governor views the controversial post as an attempt to sow seeds of discord between the Yoruba in the Southwest and other tribes, especially those who have made Lagos their permanent place of abode.

By condemning the divisive rhetoric, Babajide Sanwo-Olu reinforces his commitment to fostering an environment where all residents, regardless of their ethnic background, can thrive and contribute to the state’s development. This approach aligns with Lagos’ status as a cosmopolitan city and Nigeria’s economic powerhouse.

Backlashes for Inter-Ethnic Relations in Lagos

The incident and the subsequent government response have brought the issue of inter-ethnic relations in Lagos to the forefront. As Nigeria’s most populous city and economic center, Lagos has long been a destination for people from various parts of the country seeking better opportunities.

The governor’s strong stance against divisive rhetoric sends a clear message that attempts to disrupt the peaceful coexistence of different ethnic groups will not be tolerated. This position is crucial for maintaining social stability and economic growth in the diverse metropolis.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu: Promoting Unity and Inclusivity

In the wake of this incident, the Lagos State Government faces the challenge of reinforcing its message of unity and inclusivity. Proactive measures to promote inter-ethnic harmony and social cohesion may be necessary to prevent similar divisive campaigns in the future.

As Lagos continues to grow and attract people from various backgrounds, fostering a sense of belonging among all residents remains crucial. The government’s response to this incident could serve as a model for addressing potential ethnic tensions in other parts of Nigeria, emphasizing the importance of unity in diversity for national progress.