Igbokwe Decries Violence in South-East, Accuses Igbos of Blaming Fulani Herdsmen
A prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State, Joe Igbokwe, has expressed strong concern over the escalating violence in the South-East, alleging that some elements within the region are falsely attributing the unrest to Fulani herdsmen.
In a Facebook post on Thursday, Igbokwe, who hails from Anambra State, accused fellow Igbos of perpetrating the killings and destruction in the region.
He described the situation as a tragic deviation from Igbo culture.
“The blatant and pathological lies about the killings and destruction in the South-East can no longer stand,” he wrote. “It is Igbo killing Igbo, it is Igbo destroying Igboland and putting the blame on Hausa/Fulani herdsmen. This is not our culture. This is sad.”
Known for his vocal stance on issues concerning the South-East, Igbokwe has repeatedly urged for an end to what he terms self-inflicted violence in the region.
In a related development, Igbokwe on Wednesday raised alarm over the spread of ethnic bigotry across Nigeria, warning of its long-term implications. In another Facebook post, he lamented the growing ethnic tension and urged citizens to be more aware of the dangers.
“Ethnic bigotry is growing hopelessly like wildfire in Nigeria, and our eyes are not open to see the danger,” he said. “I pray that the veil covering our eyes will be removed so that we can see clearly. Make we de play ooo.”
His comments come amid rising concerns about ethnic and regional divisions in the country, as well as ongoing insecurity in parts of the South-East.
