Members of the Hausa community in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, staged a protest on Wednesday over what they described as increasing ethnic profiling and stigmatization following recent security incidents in the state. The protesters expressed concern that innocent Hausa residents were being unfairly linked to criminal activities, particularly cases of kidnapping.
Carrying placards and chanting solidarity songs, the demonstrators called on the Oyo State Government, security agencies and the general public to avoid stereotyping an entire ethnic group because of the actions of a few criminal elements. They maintained that the Hausa community has contributed significantly to the social and economic development of Ibadan and should not be subjected to discrimination. (Trust Radio)
Community leaders at the protest urged authorities to focus on identifying and prosecuting criminals irrespective of their ethnic background rather than promoting narratives that could deepen division and mistrust among Nigerians. They warned that ethnic profiling could undermine national unity and peaceful coexistence. (Trust Radio)
The protesters also appealed for calm and encouraged residents to continue living together peacefully while supporting efforts to tackle insecurity through lawful means. (Trust Radio)
The demonstration comes amid growing concerns over insecurity and recent abduction cases in parts of Oyo State, which have sparked public debates about crime, identity and community relations. (Trust Radio)
