Rapper Illbliss Calls for National Unity And Speaks Against Ethnic Division

Nigerian rapper, actor and entrepreneur Illbliss has sparked widespread discussion after speaking against ethnic discrimination and emphasizing the significant contributions of the Igbo people to the economic development of Lagos.

Speaking during an interview on the Outside The Box Podcast, the rapper expressed concern over the growing trend of ethnic intolerance and divisive rhetoric in Nigeria, particularly comments suggesting that non-indigenes should leave Lagos.

According to Illbliss,

“The Igbos have given a lot to the Lagos economy in terms of trade and commerce. I wonder how this town would be if you told every Igbo man to leave. So, I’m always shocked whenever I hear comments like, ‘If you’re not from Lagos State, go back to your state.’’

He further stated:

“We have no business being where we are as a country. We have no business not being accommodating of each other. Sadly, we are still plagued by tribalism and religious divisions.”

His remarks have reignited conversations about national unity, economic inclusion and peaceful coexistence among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups.

What Triggered Illbliss’ Reaction

Although Illbliss did not mention any political party by name, his comments are widely seen as a reaction to the ethnic tensions that surrounded the 2023 Lagos governorship election. During the campaign, some politicians and supporters, particularly those associated with the All Progressives Congress (APC), made statements emphasizing indigenous identity and suggesting that Lagos should be politically controlled by its natives.

Some comments directed at non-indigenes, especially Igbos, included calls for them to “go back to their states” if they were dissatisfied.

These remarks sparked national debate and were criticized by many Nigerians as divisive and contrary to the spirit of unity. While the APC as a party did not officially adopt such a position, some of its supporters and prominent figures were accused of promoting ethnic rhetoric during the election.

It was against this backdrop that Illbliss condemned tribal politics, arguing that the Igbo community has made significant contributions to Lagos through trade and commerce and that Nigeria should embrace unity and inclusiveness rather than ethnic division.

Some political supporters and social commentators have previously argued that Lagos should prioritize indigenous interests, while others insist that the city has grown into a cosmopolitan commercial hub built by Nigerians from every region of the country.

Reacting to such narratives, Illbliss argued that reducing Lagos to an ethnic identity ignores decades of contributions made by millions of Nigerians who relocated there to invest, trade, work and build businesses.

He maintained that tribal politics only creates unnecessary tension and distracts from the country’s developmental challenges.

Illbliss emphasized that Lagos became Nigeria’s commercial capital because it attracted people from different ethnic backgrounds who invested their skills, capital and labour into the city’s growth.

According to his argument, markets, manufacturing, transportation, technology, entertainment and real estate sectors have all benefited from the participation of Nigerians from different regions, including the Igbo community, which has traditionally been active in commerce and entrepreneurship.

His statement was therefore interpreted by many as a call to appreciate economic contributions rather than promote ethnic exclusion.

Profile of rapper Illbliss

Illbliss, whose birth name is Tobechukwu Melvin Ejiofor, is one of Nigeria’s respected hip-hop artists and entertainers.

Born in Enugu State, he gained national recognition through his unique rap style and socially conscious lyrics. Beyond music, he has established himself as an entrepreneur and actor, earning praise for his performances in Nollywood productions.

Over the years, Illbliss has built a reputation for speaking openly on social, political and economic issues affecting ordinary Nigerians, often using his platform to encourage accountability, unity and national development.

Sample Of  Supportive Reactions

The interview generated mixed reactions across social media.

Many Nigerians applauded Illbliss for speaking boldly against tribalism and encouraging unity, arguing that every ethnic group contributes to Nigeria’s progress

Illbliss spoke courageously about an important national issue.

Nigeria’s diversity should be celebrated, not weaponized.

Every hardworking Nigerian deserves respect regardless of tribe.

Lagos has grown because people from different backgrounds invested there.

Tribal discrimination has no place in a modern democracy.

Commerce thrives when everyone is welcomed.

His message promotes peace and coexistence.

Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity.

Development requires collaboration, not division.

We should judge people by their contributions, not their ethnicity.

Sample  Of Critical Reactions

Others, however, criticized the statement, insisting that no single ethnic group should receive special recognition for Lagos’ economic success, which they believe is the product of collective efforts by indigenous communities, migrants, governments and investors.

Lagos’ economy cannot be attributed to any single ethnic group.

The city’s growth is the result of collective national effort.

Historical contributions should be discussed with evidence and balance.

Such statements can easily be misunderstood in a sensitive political climate.

Indigenous communities also deserve recognition for building Lagos.

National unity should not depend on comparing ethnic contributions.

The discussion should focus on citizenship rather than tribal identity.

Every Nigerian community contributes to economic growth.

The issue requires careful historical context.

Public figures should avoid comments that may deepen ethnic debates.

Eventually, rapper Illbliss’ remarks have added fresh momentum to conversations about ethnicity, inclusion and economic participation in Nigeria. While opinions remain divided over the extent of the Igbo community’s contribution to Lagos’ economy, his broader message centers on rejecting tribal prejudice and recognizing that Nigeria’s progress depends on cooperation among all its people.

The discussion serves as a reminder that Lagos, like many major cities around the world, has been shaped by the efforts of people from different backgrounds whose combined contributions have helped make it one of Africa’s leading commercial centres.

The discussion has since evolved into a broader debate on identity, citizenship and national integration.

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