From CHARLES ONYEKWERE, ABAKALILI
Apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo has asked President Bola Tinubu to sack the Chairperson of the Nigerian in Diaspora Commission, NIDCOM, Mrs Abike Dabiri- Erewa, if she fails to apologise over her derogatory remarks on Ndigbo.
Ohanaeze said it is compelled by an unwavering sense of duty to vehemently condemn the derogatory remarks and the demeaning attitude displayed by Mrs Erewa, particularly those residing abroad.
The organisation stated that her actions perpetuate a narrative of bigotry, as evidenced by her unabashed promotion of defamatory posts on social media platforms—notably her X page (formerly Twitter)—that have insidiously portrayed the Igbo nation as a caricature before national and global audiences.
According to Ohanaeze, such misrepresentation constitutes a collective affront to the dignity and psyche of every Igbo individual, both at home and abroad.
In a statement issued yesterday by its factional Deputy President-General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro and National Spokesperson, Chief Thompson Ohia, Ohanaeze noted that the grievous insults emanating from her statements are not isolated incidents, but reflective of a troubling pattern of ethnic profiling and biased treatment specifically aimed at Igbo people in the diaspora.
It said in recent years, the leadership of the Igbo community has diligently documented her selective and disparaging comments, particularly in instances where vital intervention by her office is required.
Part of the statement reads “Numerous petitions and complaints have surfaced, alleging that Dabiri-Erewa has consistently neglected her responsibilities to safeguard the interest of Diaspora Igbos, whom she is constitutionally bound to protect.
“Reports indicate that numerous Igbos facing hardship in various continents—whether in Asia, Europe or America—have been left to navigate their tribulations without the support expected from her office.
“Additionally, her failure to assist many innocent Nigerians, who might otherwise be extricated from precarious situations, stands as a stark indictment of her tenure. Of particular concern is her willingness to disseminate offensive content, including a post wherein Igbos were referred to as “monkeys.”
“This egregious act, which she has failed to retract despite public outcry, demonstrates a shocking level of insensitivity and disregard for the dignity of the people she is meant to represent. In the light of these circumstances, Ohanaeze Ndigbo respectfully but firmly urges President Bola Tinubu to take decisive action.
“We implore the presidency to call her to account for her continued sectionalism and bigotry towards the Igbo nation, whom her office is constitutionally mandated to protect.
“It is our fervent expectation that if she fails to issue an immediate and unreserved apology to the Igbo nation, President Tinubu should consider her removal from office.
“Such action will send a resounding message that there is zero-tolerance for the abuse of public office, insubordination and perpetuation of ethnic discrimination.
“The time for decisive leadership is now. It is imperative that those in positions of power are held accountable for their actions, ensuring that respect and dignity are afforded to all citizens, particularly those from traditionally marginalised groups.
