The Arewa People’s Unity Association (APUA) has accused Yoruba nation agitator Sunday Igboho of promoting ethnic profiling against Northerners living in the South-West and called on the Federal Government to intervene to prevent actions capable of threatening national unity.
The group also urged the Lagos State Government to provide alternative locations and compensation for traders affected by the recent demolition of structures at Alaba Rago, describing the development as capable of deepening ethnic distrust if not properly addressed.
In a statement issued Thursday and jointly signed by its National Chairman, Alhaji Adamu Aliyu, and National Secretary, Dr. Aliyu Ahmad Tijjani, APUA alleged that Northerners residing in parts of the South-West had been subjected to harassment and intimidation.
The association specifically accused Sunday Igboho of profiling innocent Northerners as criminals and terrorists under the guise of protecting the interests of the Yoruba nation.
“We condemn these actions in the strongest terms and urge the Federal Government to call Sunday Igboho and his cohorts to order to avoid any likelihood of reprisal and national disintegration,” the statement said.
The group also raised concerns over the Lagos State Government’s urban renewal exercise, saying the demolition of structures at Alaba Rago had disproportionately affected traders and residents of northern extraction.
According to APUA, although the government has the right to implement urban renewal policies, such actions should be carried out in line with the Constitution and relevant provisions of the Land Use Act.
The association alleged that many traders suffered heavy losses following the demolition and argued that adequate compensation and relocation measures should have accompanied the exercise.
“It is expected that the government provides alternative locations for settlement and stabilisation, as these residents contribute immensely to the economy of the state through the informal sector,” the statement added.
APUA warned that failure to address the concerns of those affected could create the impression of ethnic targeting, a development it said would not promote national cohesion.
The group therefore appealed to the Lagos State Government to urgently provide alternative sites for the displaced traders and compensate those whose businesses were affected.
It also called on Nigerians to avoid actions capable of promoting ethnic division and instead embrace peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.
The association described itself as a non-political and non-profit organisation committed to promoting peace, unity and harmonious coexistence among Nigerians.