Tension between Yoruba, Igbo, in Lagos handiwork of political rascals–Adebanjo

Leader of Afenifere, the apex Yoruba socio-cultural organization, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, says there is no war between the Yoruba and Igbo, and that whatever appears to be tension between the two ethnic groups, was the handiwork of some political rascals.

Adebanjo who stated this while receiving a delegation of the Lagos Chapter of Anya-Ndi-Igbo, also dismissed the treason allegation levelled against the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, by Information Minister, Alhaji Lai Mohammed.

Recall that Mohammed had during a tour of news organisations in the United States accused Peter Obi and his running mate in the February 25 presidential election, Datti Baba-Ahmed, of treason.

Adebanjo wondered why Lai Mohammed had kept quiet when the head of Lagos State Motor Parks and Garages, Musiliu Akinsanya, popularly known as MC Oluomo, incited attacks against the Ndigbo in Lagos.

“All the time they were killing people because of the election, Lai Mohammed kept quiet,” he said.

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He said: “Oluomo and all those who sponsor him, including those chiefs who were declaring Oro on Election Day, they are the political rascals. Since when have we been doing Oro on Election Day?” he asked.

Adebanjo cautioned those propagating that Ndigbo are in battle with the Yoruba over Lagos to stop such insinuations as both ethnic groups enjoy cordial relationships.

“We have had cordial relationships with the Igbo over the years and we are not having problems with them. Those trying to sow disunity must be careful.”

Dr. Uma Eleazu, chairman of the Board of Trustees of Anya-Ndi-Igbo who led the delegation to Adebanjo, also said there is no battle between the Yoruba and Ndigbo as being insinuated in sections of the press and social media.

Elder Eleazu noted that mischief makers who he described as “little foxes that destroy the garden of relationship” are propagating such insinuation.

He said those stoking embers of discord were doing great disservice to the unity of the two regions that have had cordial relationships over the years.

“However, we have witnessed the activities of the little foxes that destroy the garden of our relationship. They are acting out the template of their masters. And we want all people of goodwill to do all they can to rein in such deviant behaviour before it gets out of hand.”