Obasanjo Declares: ‘If Anyone Should Leave Nigeria, It Won’t Be the Igbos

On August 16, 2024, former President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, made a strong statement while addressing the leadership of the Ndigbo Amaka Progressive Market Association. The meeting took place in the boardroom of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) in Abeokuta, Ogun State. During the discussion, Obasanjo emphasized the unity of Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups, particularly the Yorubas, Igbos, and Hausas, who all fought together to preserve the nation’s unity.

Obasanjo firmly rejected the idea of any Nigerian being driven away from any part of the country, asserting that Nigeria belongs to all its citizens equally. He stated, “I don’t believe anybody in Nigeria should be driven away from any part of the country; we own this country together. Having ensured that the Yorubas, Igbos, and Hausas all came together to fight the war for unity in Nigeria, and not to fight Igbos to go, but to come. So if anybody says to me that somebody should leave any place, he will be the one to leave.”

The former president’s remarks reflect his commitment to the unity and cohesion of Nigeria, rejecting any form of ethnic division. His comments were well-received by the Ndigbo Amaka Progressive Market Association, whose spokesperson, Chief Emeka Dallas Emmanuel, praised Obasanjo for his continuous efforts toward the progress and development of the country.

Obasanjo’s message serves as a reminder of the importance of national unity and the shared responsibility of all Nigerians in building a harmonious and inclusive nation. His words resonate strongly in a time when unity and collective effort are crucial for the country’s future.