Nigerian rapper Illbliss has called for greater acceptance of non-indigenes across the country, urging Nigerians to reject divisive comments targeted at people living outside their states of origin.
Speaking during a recent episode of the Outside The Box podcast, the ‘Aiye Po Gan’ crooner highlighted the contributions of the Igbo community in Lagos as an example of how non-indigenous residents have helped drive economic growth and development.
According to Illbliss, Igbos have played a major role in strengthening Lagos’ economy through trade and commerce despite not being indigenous to the state.
The rapper expressed concern that decades after independence, Nigeria continues to struggle with tribalism, ethnic prejudice and religious intolerance.
“The Igbos have given a lot to the Lagos economy in terms of trade and commerce. I wonder what Lagos would look like if every Igbo person decided to leave. That is why I am always surprised when I hear comments telling people who are not from Lagos to return to their states,” he said.
Illbliss stressed that Nigerians should be more accommodating of one another, regardless of ethnic or religious backgrounds, noting that the country’s progress is often hindered by deep-rooted divisions.
He lamented that tribal and religious sentiments continue to shape national discourse and relationships among citizens, despite years of coexistence.
The rapper added that Nigeria’s persistent ethnic and religious tensions sometimes make him question whether the country was adequately prepared for unity as a single nation.
