Threat to Igbos: APC disowns Oba of Lagos

The All Progressives Congress has distanced itself from remarks of the Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, threatening Igbos living in the state.

During a courtesy visit to the Oba at his palace by Eze Ndigbos (Igbo traditional rulers) of all the local governments in Lagos on Sunday, Mr. Akiolu had said that Igbo residents in the state should cast their votes for the governorship candidate of the APC gubernatorial candidate, Akinwunmi Ambode, or “perish inside the lagoon”.

Several Nigerians and institutions have continued to condemn the comments of the Lagos paramount ruler.

The ruling Peoples Democratic Party, in its reaction described the comments as a “plunge to anarchy”.

Also, Human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, has told the Oba to apologise to the Igbo people in Lagos “without delay”.

Also, the Director of Media and Publicity of the People’s Democratic Party Presidential Campaign Organisation, Femi Fani-Kayode, described the statement as “ominous and unacceptable” the threat by the Oba.

On Monday, Mr. Ambode had subtly distance himself from the Oba’s remark saying the APC will protect the interest of all ethnic groups.

The APC, after what has been described by critics as much prodding, followed suit saying the Oba does not speak for the party and condemned the comments he made.

Speaking via its twitter handle, the APC said “The Oba of Lagos does not speak for the APC. From General Buhari down to Desmond Elliot, even true APC supporters, no hate speeches made so far.

“Bad is bad, irrespective of where it comes from. We highly condemn the comments made by the highly respected Oba of Lagos in strong terms,” the party said.

APC also said Lagos has been home to all people from across Nigeria. It said successive administrations in the state allow for diversity in the formation of its cabinet.

“Since 99, the Lagos State Government has appointed Commissioners from various parts of Nigeria. It understands diversity is a blessing,” it said.