Outspoken Opposition to Ethnic Targeting
Chief Bode George, a key PDP member, strongly criticized calls for the Igbo to leave Lagos as “arrant nonsense.” In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, the ex-army officer decried these divisive demands as foolish. During a media session on national issues, the Lagos native condemned the exclusionary campaign.
Historical Bonds and Inclusivity
George reflected on the deep-rooted camaraderie between local and Igbo communities, from playing football to joint business ventures. He criticized the baseless claims from likely non-natives, highlighting Lagos’s open and integrative culture. His comments underscored the city’s support for trade and unity, emphasizing its inclusive spirit.
Economic Contributions and Cultural Integration
The discourse took a deeper dive as George pointed out the significant contributions of the Igbo community to Lagos’s development. He rejected the exclusionary campaign, labeling it as not just nonsensical but deeply damaging to the social and economic fabric of the region. From property investments to enriching the local economy, the Igbo’s role in Lagos is portrayed as integral and invaluable.
Political Echoes and Leadership’s Stand
The issue reached top government levels, prompting President Bola Tinubu to urge an end to ethnically charged rhetoric nationally. In his broadcast, Tinubu stressed unity and the harmful impact of ethnic discrimination, declaring no place for it in Nigeria. He reinforced that divisive sentiments contradict the nation’s core values and unity.
Calls for Unity Amidst National Challenges
As the #EndBadGovernmentInNigeria protest gains momentum, the focus on divisive campaigns distracts from the larger issues affecting all citizens, regardless of ethnic background. George’s call for an immediate end to these baseless campaigns aims to refocus public attention on collective improvement and national solidarity.
Standing Against Divisiveness
In his concluding remarks, Bode George called for those propagating the divisive messages to recognize the right of all Nigerians to reside and thrive wherever they choose within the country. His stance is a powerful reminder of the strength found in diversity and the need for inclusivity in fostering a prosperous society.
Follow us on Socials: