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On Wednesday, Most Rev. Alfred Adewale Martins, the Catholic Archbishop of Lagos State, denounced any expressions of ethnic profiling as well as the violence that was seen in various areas of the state before, during, and after the most recent elections.
Rev. Fr. Anthony Godonu Martins encouraged the Lagos State government to immediately call all political parties to order and put in place machinery for the urgent restoration of peace and normalcy in a statement that was signed by the director of social communications.
The priest warned that if the tendency was not stopped right once, it may endanger the state's citizens' ability to live in peace.
The clergy urged law authorities to protect people's lives and property regardless of their tribe, religion, or ethnic group.
He pointed out that the racial and discriminatory remarks spreading, particularly on social media, are not representative of Lagosians in general, who are renowned to be peace-loving, tolerant, and cosmopolitan, notably by actively encouraging inter-tribal marriages for many years.
"I call on everyone to stop the spread of hate speech and false information, and to shun all forms of rancor," he stated.
"Divisive remarks and actions, especially along ethnic or tribal lines, are not supportive of good neighbors and harmonious cohabitation.
"God regards us all equally. We are Nigerians who have lived and interacted as one in Lagos and other parts of our nation for decades.
Igbos were attacked in Lagos State prior to Saturday's gubernatorial election.
Before the governor's race, attacks and fires destroyed markets with a large Igbo population.
Thugs who were allegedly affiliated with the All Progressives Congress, or APC, warned Igbos not to vote during the governorship election.
Following Mr. Peter Obi's triumph as the Labour Party's (LP) presidential candidate in Lagos, there were attacks.
