APC Chieftain Joe Igbokwe Raises Alarm Over Escalating Ethnic Bigotry, Warns of National Consequences if Ignored

 

Ethnic divisions are becoming increasingly pronounced in Nigeria, and Joe Igbokwe, a chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), has expressed deep concern over what he describes as a dangerous and unchecked rise in ethnic bigotry. According to Igbokwe, this growing problem is spreading rapidly across the country, like wildfire, yet many citizens and leaders are either unaware or unconcerned about its devastating implications.

Using his personal Facebook platform to share his concerns, the Lagos-based politician sounded a sobering note early Tuesday morning. His message was direct, emotional, and filled with a sense of urgency. He warned that the unchecked rise in ethnic bias could have disastrous effects if Nigerians continue to ignore it or treat it as a trivial matter.

Joe Igbokwe is no stranger to controversy or social commentary. Known for his outspoken nature and hard-hitting posts, he often delves into sensitive issues, especially those that affect national unity. This time, however, his warning was particularly dire. He described the current state of ethnic relations in the country as "hopelessly" deteriorating, calling for a collective awakening before irreversible damage is done.

“Ethnic bigotry is growing hopelessly like wildfire in Nigeria and our eyes are not open to see the danger,” Igbokwe wrote. “I pray that the veil covering our eyes will be removed so that we can see clearly. Make we dey play ooo.”

The closing line of his post, seemingly laced with sarcasm, underscores a larger frustration that many Nigerians share: the nation's tendency to ignore pressing problems until they spiral out of control. While the phrase “Make we dey play ooo” may sound lighthearted, it carries the weight of disappointment and disillusionment.

Igbokwe's concerns are not baseless. Nigeria has long struggled with ethnic tensions that have periodically erupted into violence. From inter-communal clashes in the Middle Belt, to political marginalization complaints in the South East, to farmer-herder conflicts in the North, the country has been plagued by a history of ethnic and religious friction. However, in recent years, many observers have noted a more intensified polarization, fueled in part by social media, political rhetoric, and economic hardship.

Analysts argue that social platforms like Facebook and Twitter, while offering freedom of expression, have also become breeding grounds for misinformation and hate speech. Ethnic stereotyping and regional bias are now common online, with many users promoting divisive narratives that further entrench mistrust among Nigeria’s over 250 ethnic groups.

What makes Igbokwe’s warning particularly compelling is his position within the ruling party. As a senior figure in the APC, his words carry both political and social weight. Critics might argue that the government, of which his party is the leading force, has not done enough to foster national unity or to confront the subtle but dangerous manifestations of ethnic prejudice.

Beyond social media, there are signs that ethnic bias is creeping into institutions, policy decisions, and national conversations. Allegations of nepotism, uneven development, and tribal favoritism continue to fuel resentment in various parts of the country. Politicians have also been accused of exploiting ethnic divisions for electoral gains, often pitting one group against another to secure votes.

Despite the seriousness of these challenges, there appears to be a lack of coordinated national response. Civil society groups, religious leaders, and some state governments have made efforts to promote dialogue and reconciliation, but such initiatives remain fragmented and often underfunded. The federal government has occasionally issued statements promoting national unity, but critics say there has been little follow-through in terms of actual policy and accountability.

Joe Igbokwe’s message may serve as a wake-up call, not only to political leaders but to ordinary Nigerians who may unknowingly contribute to the problem through careless words or unexamined biases. The hope is that more voices within and outside government will begin to treat this issue with the seriousness it deserves.

If left unaddressed, ethnic bigotry could further destabilize a country already battling insecurity, economic challenges, and political uncertainty. Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity, but that diversity must be respected and protected. Unity is not just a slogan; it requires active commitment, inclusive governance, and mutual respect.

As the conversation grows louder, it remains to be seen whether Igbokwe’s warning will ignite national introspection or fade into the background like many other warnings before it. For now, the wildfire he spoke of continues to burn.