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Desist from hate speeches - FG tells IPOB
Posted by Kess Ewubare
- The DG of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Dr Garba Abari, says the NOA has in its possession at least three songs already recorded to preach hate in the communities
- Abari states that Nigeria stands the risk of impending crisis if hate and divisive speeches remain unchecked
- MASSOB calls on people of Igbo descent residing in northern Nigeria to immediately commence relocation to the southeast region
The federal government has cautioned the Independent People of Biafra (IPOB), and other groups in the country to refrain from disseminating hate speeches.
The caution was given on Thursday, August 10, in Abuja by the director general of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Dr. Garba Abari, Tribune reports.
Mr Abari said the NOA had in its possession at least three songs already recorded to preach hate in the communities.
He said: “Two out of these songs are in mass circulation in the social media, particularly on Facebook and YouTube. The latest one was only released three days ago. The more disturbing part of this is that each of the songs appears to want to outdo the other.”
“We are also aware that messages from the Independent People of Biafra (IPOB) group have continually been filled with hate and derision for other ethnic communities. We have also noticed that those who dare to call them to order have become the subject of attack by these groups through their songs and messages.”
The NOA DG warned that Nigeria stands the risk of impending crisis if hate and divisive speeches remain unchecked.
Mr Abari said in order to address the concerns caused by the several agitation by ethno-religious interest, NOA had directed all its state directorates and community orientation and mobilization officers (COMOs) to commence peace-building sensitization and advocacy visits to settler communities to reassure them of government’s commitment to their safety and security.
Meanwhile, the Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign state of Biafra (MASSOB) has called on people of Igbo descent residing in northern Nigeria to immediately commence relocation to the southeast region.
MASSOB made the call in reaction to a purported hate song reportedly circulating in parts of the north which allegedly incites violence against people of Igbo origin.
Leader of the group, Comrade Uchenna Madu, in a statement made available to journalists in Enugu on Thursday, August 10, said the song was a reflection of the frustration, envy and jealousy being haboured by northerners.
Madu also stated that the song was clear evidence that Nigeria is doomed forever, adding that the country can never be redeemed.
