Why Obasanjo Rejects #IgboMustGo Narrative, Emphasizes Nigeria's Unity

Former President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, has dismissed divisive narratives suggesting that Igbos or any other ethnic group should be driven away from any part of the country, stressing that "we own this country together." His remarks came in response to increasing tensions around the controversial hashtag #IgboMustGo, which has circulated on social media, igniting debates about the treatment of Igbos in different parts of Nigeria.

Obasanjo expressed his views during a meeting with the leadership of the Ndigbo Amaka Progressive Market Association, an umbrella group representing major markets in Lagos State. The meeting took place at the boardroom of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

The former President also humorously responded to claims that he might have Igbo ancestry, saying, "It just makes me laugh," choosing not to elaborate further on the matter. His light-hearted reaction suggests that the former President is more focused on national unity than on personal identity debates.

Obasanjo emphasized the importance of Nigeria's unity, recalling the significant role that all ethnic groups-Yoruba, Igbo, and Hausa-played in fighting for the nation's independence and maintaining its territorial integrity during the civil war. He made it clear that no Nigerian should be driven away from any region, adding, "If anybody says to me that someone should leave any place, they will be the one to leave."

The meeting also provided an opportunity for the Ndigbo Amaka Progressive Market Association to seek Obasanjo's support for the establishment of the Owerri Central Market, which has been in planning stages since the creation of Imo State. Obasanjo expressed his optimism about the project and noted that the market would be the first of its kind in Nigeria, with the potential to boost innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth in the region.

The group's spokesperson, Chief Emeka Dallas Emmanuel, highlighted the potential of the market to uplift the community, particularly by providing opportunities for small businesses and taking a vast majority of people off the streets. Emmanuel also sought Obasanjo's assistance in helping their members secure loans to acquire shops and spaces within the market.

Obasanjo reiterated his commitment to supporting initiatives that promote unity and progress across Nigeria, calling on all Nigerians to work together to build a prosperous and inclusive nation.