Ethnic bigotry threatens Nigeria, says APC chieftain Joe Igbokwe, warning of dire consequences if rising divisions are ignored by leaders and citizens
Ethnic bigotry threatens Nigeria, says Lagos APC chieftain Joe Igbokwe, in a strongly worded public warning posted on his verified Facebook page.
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The former Lagos State Government aide expressed deep concern over what he described as the unchecked rise in ethnic hate across the country.
Writing on Wednesday, Igbokwe likened the growing tribal sentiments to a wildfire consuming Nigeria’s unity, urging citizens to open their eyes to the threat.
He warned that if left unchallenged, ethnic divisions could escalate into a major national crisis.
He stated, “Good morning Nigerians! Ethnic bigotry is growing hopelessly like wildfire in Nigeria and our eyes are not open to see the danger. I pray that the veil covering our eyes will be removed so that we can see clearly. Make we de play ooo.”
Igbokwe’s alarm comes amid increasing concerns over identity politics, social exclusion, and hate speech online and offline, particularly during and after the last general election.
His remarks struck a nerve across political divides, with some opposition figures agreeing with his sentiment.
One of them, Segun Showunmi, a former spokesperson for Atiku Abubakar during the 2019 presidential election, echoed Igbokwe’s fears.
He described ethnic bigotry as a ticking time bomb threatening Nigeria’s fragile peace and unity.
Reacting to Igbokwe’s post, Showunmi wrote, “I have been screaming against this and it is one major pillar of The Alternative. No one who thinks deeply can be happy with the madness being tolerated, and those in charge are doing nothing to signal enough is enough! Let us pray they have a containment strategy in case things blow up in all our faces. How we pretend not to see the danger beats me.”
Ethnic bigotry is growing hopelessly like wildfire in Nigeria and our eyes are not open to see the danger.
The remarks by both politicians highlight growing unease within the political class about the rise in divisive rhetoric and the politicisation of ethnicity, especially in urban areas like Lagos, where ethnic profiling and voter suppression were widely reported during recent elections.
Observers say the situation is further complicated by a lack of robust leadership response to inter-ethnic tensions.
Analysts have pointed to the silence of major national figures on ethnic hate crimes and regional marginalisation, calling for a national dialogue on unity.
While ethnic diversity remains a core part of Nigeria’s national identity, recent developments suggest that the country’s social fabric is under increasing strain.
Experts warn that without deliberate reconciliation and inclusive leadership, Nigeria could face serious instability.
Civil society groups and peace advocates have urged the Federal Government to launch public education campaigns against hate speech, strengthen institutions for mediation and justice, and lead by example in national appointments and messaging.
“Ethnic bigotry threatens Nigeria,” said a civil rights advocate in response to the viral post.
“It is no longer just about tribal sentiments; it’s about what kind of nation we are building. If people feel excluded or hated, conflict becomes inevitable.”
Despite deep political differences, both Igbokwe and Showunmi appear united in their call for urgent action to prevent ethnic sentiment from tearing the country apart.
Their warnings, shared widely on social media, have sparked renewed debate on whether Nigeria’s political leaders are doing enough to heal the growing fault lines.
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As the country prepares for future elections and national reforms, many believe this is the time for sincere conversations on unity, equity, and national integration.
