South-East Leaders Condemn Hate Speech and Ethnic Profiling

South-East Leaders Condemn Hate Speech and Ethnic Profiling: The Joint Body of the South-East Council of Traditional Rulers and Representatives of Igbo Archbishops

and Bishops on Peace and Conflict Resolution has issued a statement

condemning the recent surge in hate speech and ethnic profiling targeting the Ndigbo community. The statement, signed by prominent traditional and religious leaders,

warns of the destructive potential of unchecked hostility, citing the

Rwandan genocide and the Nigerian Civil War as examples.

president Tinubu

The Joint Body commends President Bola Tinubu for his recent address

condemning ethnic bigotry and threats, but emphasizes the need for

concrete actions to address the issue. They recommend that the government immediately sanction and prosecute those using hate speech and ethnic profiling, and urge the

National Assembly to pass comprehensive legislation criminalizing such behavior.

nationwide campaign

Additionally, the Joint Body calls for a nationwide campaign to educate

citizens on the dangers of hate speech and the importance of ethnic harmony,

as well as dialogue sessions within communities to foster understanding

and cooperation. They also urge media houses to adopt a code of conduct that discourages divisive content and encourages reporting that builds bridges between communities.

The statement concludes by emphasizing the importance of unity and mutual respect in building a peaceful and progressive Nigeria, and implores citizens to remember the horrors of the past and work together towards a harmonious future.