IPOB Slams ‘IgboMustGo’ Campaign, Demands Referendum for Peaceful Exit
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) have fiercely criticized the organizers and supporters of the “IgboMustGo” movement in the South-West, urging them to consider a referendum for the peaceful exit of the Igbo people from Nigeria.
In a strong statement, IPOB condemned the dismissive attitude of the South-West authorities towards the “IgboMustGo” campaign, which they believe is being downplayed. The group emphasized that the Igbo people are firmly rooted in the region and are not intimidated by any threats or calls for their departure.
According to IPOB, there is mounting evidence that influential figures within both the Lagos State Government and the Federal Government are backing the proponents of the “IgboMustGo” campaign. The group warned Southerners to be cautious of the actions and motivations behind this movement, particularly in the South-West region.
Emma Powerful, the IPOB Director of Media and Publicity, issued a statement on Monday. The statement addressed the upcoming “IgboMustGo” protest, planned for August 20-30, 2024, by anonymous Yoruba groups and individuals. IPOB reminded these anti-Igbo factions that the Igbo are prepared to leave Yoruba land and Nigeria, but they will only do so through a democratic process like a referendum. The group firmly stated that the Igbo will not be cowed into leaving any part of Nigeria due to threats or intimidation.
In their statement, IPOB expressed disbelief that Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s condemnation of the “IgboMustGo” campaign was genuine. They accused the governor of hypocrisy, pointing out that he had previously engaged in actions that appeared to target Igbo people, such as the demolition of Igbo-owned businesses, properties, and investments in Lagos. IPOB suggested that the same high-profile individuals who may have influenced these actions could also be behind the “IgboMustGo” campaign.
Despite these accusations, IPOB made it clear that the Igbo are not shaken. The group stated that they have experienced various forms of discrimination and persecution in Nigeria and are ready for any opportunity to peacefully exit the country. However, they emphasized that a peaceful and democratic exit via a referendum is the preferred route to avoid future hostility between the Igbo and other ethnic groups.
IPOB warned that if the Igbo are forced to leave Nigeria under violent circumstances, it could result in a long-standing hostile relationship between the Igbo and their neighbors. The group cautioned the Yoruba nationalists and their sponsors that the Igbo have already decided to leave Nigeria, and no amount of threats or campaigns like “IgboMustGo” will deter them from this course of action.
In conclusion, IPOB’s statement called for calm and a measured approach to the issue, advocating for a referendum as the most suitable means to resolve the tensions surrounding the “IgboMustGo” campaign. They reiterated that while the Igbo are not afraid of threats, they seek to maintain peaceful and cooperative relationships with their neighbors through a democratic and orderly process of self-determination.
Add comment