FG warns IPOB, other groups against hate messages

The Federal Government has warned the Independent People of Biafra (IPOB), religious groups, traditional rulers, musicians and individuals to desist from the promotion of hate messages that is dividing the country and portraying Nigeria as an unfriendly environment for investment.

Giving this warning in Abuja on Thursday, the Director General of National Orientation Agency (NOA), Dr. Garba Abari, stated that, “NOA is in possession of at least three songs already recorded to preach hate in the communities.

“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.”

Abari stated further that, “our concern is that the social fabric of our nation is being ruined and we stand at the risk of an impending crisis in the face of unchecked hate and divisive speeches. Nigerians risk the loss of their freedoms if the current ugly trend of hate speeches is allowed to snowball into a war situation.

“The current on-going altercations and vituperation of hate speeches across the country by individuals, well-known leaders, religious leaders, groups of persons and organizations have a strong foreboding of looming disaster. If we allow our country to be plunged into crisis just because of the antics of an irresponsible few, none of us will be spared of the deadly destructive effects.”

“You will all recall that the 30 months of July 1967 to January 1970, in which over two million of our compatriots lost their lives, was preceded and started by intolerance and a series of hate pronouncement, hate speeches, hate actions inflicted upon one another by the citizens. Today, many older Nigerians still carry within their bodies, with a deep sense of nostalgia, the pains of injuries from the Civil War.  There is nothing romantic about war. In any form, war is bad, condemnable and must be avoided,” he warned.

The DG said the Federal government is committed to its constitutional obligation to ensure the safety and security of all Nigerian citizens, wherever they maybe and taking all necessary measures in that regard in the face of the current situation.

“In order to address the concerns caused by the several agitation by ethno-religious interest that have also led to illegal quit orders and counter orders against some communities, the National Orientation Agency has 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.”

He advised Nigerian citizens to say no to hate speeches on social media particularly on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Abari called on all men and women of goodwill in the country to take measures to curb hate messages in Nigeria.