Nigerian rapper Illbliss has urged citizens to embrace inclusivity and reject divisive rhetoric targeting non-indigenous residents in their states. Speaking on the Outside The Box podcast, the artist behind ‘Aiye Po Gan’ highlighted the significant role of Igbo traders and entrepreneurs in shaping Lagos’ economy.
Illbliss pointed out that Igbos have been instrumental in driving commerce and trade within Lagos, questioning how the state would function without their contributions. He expressed dismay over lingering tribalism and religious intolerance, calling them obstacles to national progress.
“I often wonder what Lagos would look like if all Igbos were asked to leave. Their input to the economy is undeniable,” he stated. “Yet, I hear comments like, ‘If you’re not from Lagos, go back to your state.’”
The rapper lamented that decades after independence, Nigeria still grapples with ethnic and religious divisions, making him question whether the country should have remained united. “We have no business being this divided. We should be accommodating one another, but sadly, tribalism persists,” Illbliss added.