From Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta
Ogun State Government has opposed the anti-Igbo agenda.
The government in a statement yesterday in Abeokuta by the Secretary to Governor Dapo Abiodun, Kunle Somorin, said:
“Our attention has been drawn to provocative statements, including video clips, spreading on the social media posted by certain individuals and groups to the effect that some ethnic groups should leave the Southwest within 48 hours.
“As a responsible government, we consider such pronouncements unfortunate, provocative, reckless and irresponsible. Ogun State will remain home to all Nigerians and foreigners who have legitimate reasons to live, work, visit or do business here. We shall also protect their lives and properties and look after their wellness, welfare and well-being.
“It is a well-known fact that the Yoruba, especially of Ogun State extraction, are cosmopolitan, urbane and too civilised to discriminate against people on account of their ethnic origin, religion or circumstances of birth. These unpatriotic individuals did not represent the views of the Yoruba race that is reputed to be accommodating, tolerant and hospitable. They are definitely not speaking for the Yoruba and the good people of Ogun State.
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“These ethno-religious jingoists and their collaborators are therefore advised in their own interest to desist from heating up the polity, fanning the embers of discord and inciting aggression against our compatriots from other parts of the country.
“We advise that rather than dissipating energies on divisive ventures, YYF and their ilk should deploy more time and resources to support causes that promote Nigeria’s unity, especially good inter and intra ethnic relations within the context of our unity in diversity.
“We have put security agents on red alert to be more vigilant, apprehend and deal decisively with agent provocateurs and felons disguising as promoters of self-serving Yoruba agenda. They should be stopped from their campaign of calumny, looting, maiming, burning and destruction of public and private properties.
“We wish to reassure residents of the state of their safety, irrespective of their state of origin or nationalities.”
