News

SECURITY: Igbo Union in US Tackles S’East Governors

Published

5 years ago

June 16, 2020

Bona Naija

…Accuse them of being insensitive to the threat and terrorization of Ndi Igbo by Fulani herdsmen roaming our villages with their cattle and AK-47 rifles

A group of Igbos resident in the United States of America under the aegis of Igbo Union has come heavily on the governors of the South East states over their poor handling of the security situation in the region.

The group which said their mission is to promote the unity, socio-economic progress, and security of Ndi Igbo in Igboland and in the diaspora asked the reasons behind the influx of armed Fulani-Jihadist militants in Igbo land.

In a letter signed by the coordinator, Ikechukwu Orji, Secretary-General, Matthew Ohanele, and director, diplomacy and outreach, Dr. Ray Chimezie and dated 30th May, 2020, the group urged the governors to reject the community policing template of the Inspector General of police.

The group also expressed their willingness to “mobilize Igbo Diasaporans to work with our people back home to ensure that proper security personnels are recruited and adequately equipped.” They urged the state Houses of Assembly to do their work following the same process and template the South West Zone used in setting up their Zonal Security Services- Amotekun.

Part of the statement reads;

“The Igbo Union is concerned about your insensitivity to the threat and terrorization of Ndi Igbo in the hands of Fulani herdsmen roaming our villages with their cattle and AK-47 rifles. For over four years, the presence of herdsmen in our villages and farms have sparked conflicts, killings, property damages and fear in our people. There are lots of unanswered questions about your response to the influx of
Fulani militia into Igboland, which skyrocketed during the lockdown.

“It is a fact of history that the Fulanis believe in conquering other ethnicities and
inhabiting their land. Clearly, the Fulanis do not believe in “live & let live” as the Igbos.
They are sworn enemies of Ndi Igbo and want to take over Igboland as the inheritance of their forefathers. They want to force us to become moslems. They believe in total and complete domination and enslavement of others as captives or subjects. Their leaders have referred to Igboland as conquered territory, and they are determined to take it as they have done in many parts of Benue, Plateau, and other non-Islamic states in Northern Nigeria.

“Popular opinions and anecdotal sources seem to suggest that the governors in the
South East are compromised and working in the interest of the ruling Islamic cabals rather than their states. Evidence that seem to support this allegation include the over three hundred and sixty (360) Fulani settlements in various forests in Igboland, your failure to respond to Fulani threats in Igbo villages, lopsided compensation of Fulanis for cattle loss without doing same to affected Igbo people or villages, endorsing Fulani land grab in Igboland by failing to enact Anti-grazing Law as was done in states like Benue.

“This claim is further supported by your failure as governors to expeditiously set up a security network for the South Eastern states just as the Yorubas formed the Western Nigeria Security Network otherwise known as Amotekun. We want to make it clear that we are disappointed that Igbos elected as governors of their people will support a clandestine agenda by a minority Fulani tribe to enslave Igboland and be part of a surreptitious plan to destroy Christianity in Igboland and desecrate Omenala.

“Ndi Igbo and others living with us are asking for the reasons behind the influx of armed Fulani-Jihadist militants in our land. Why have our governors remained silent and unconcerned in the presence of clearly impending threats of genocide, terrorism, and mayhem against the indegenous people of Igbo?

“However, we are mindful of the fact that you met some weeks ago and issued a
communique which, amongst others, requested the various State Houses of Assembly to enact laws setting up security networks in each of the five states that would offer regional protection to the land and the people. However, we are surprised and shocked to learn about the recent meeting with the Inspector-General of Police (IG), Mr. Muhammed Adamu, where you discussed your previous communiqué. At this later meeting, you agreed on the template for the implementation of community policing in the South East zone.

“The Igbo Union wants to make it clear to Igbo governors that we object to the use of the template structured by the Inspector General of Police. To develop the South East security network using the template of the person or persons masterminding terrorism and planning genocide in Igboland is preposterous. It fails short of what Ndi Igbo stand for or represent.
We urge that you reject that proposal, and charge our various state Houses of Assembly do their work following the same process and template the South West Zone used in setting up their Zonal Security Services, Amotekun.

“Be that as it may, our interest is with respect to the security of lives and properties in every inch of Igboland. We eagerly await for the various Houses of Assembly to pass the enabling laws as requested by your forum. Once the laws are passed, this organization will mobilize Igbo Diasaporans to work with our people back home to ensure that proper
security personnels are recruited and adequately equipped.

“Our desire to pursue this action is to protect the sacrosanctity of Igbo land desecrated by the Federal Government of Nigeria with the Land Use Act (Decree) of 1978. That Law stripped Igbo people of the legal ownership of their land, and vested all urban land within a state in the state governor, and all non-urban land in the local governments. Igbos are predial, with deep spiritual attachment to our land even in death.

“History will not be kind to you if you do not act quickly to save our people and ancestral land. Our ancestors fought and saved this homeland for us, making it possible for us (Igbos) to be born and grow up thereon. It is therefore imperative that you do everything you can to prevent this impending genocidal Jihad before the blood of our people – including your families and relatives start flowing. The safety of our people is paramount.

“As governors, be assured that you have us, the Igbo Union, as worthy allies. Our affiliated Igbo organizations in the United States and all over the world are willing to work with you and contribute all we can towards the safety and security of our ancestral land.

“While we are willing and eager to work with you, we will also hold you accountable if, due 0to your lackadaisical attitude to this urgent issue, our people perish under your watch or any inch of our ancestral land is lost to the invaders. Indeed, Ndi Igbo at home and in the diaspora will hold you responsible for any property damage, bodily injury, or death caused by any act of the Fulanis due to your inaction.

“Regardless of your political affiliation, now is the time to come together and fight a
common enemy for the survival of our people and our homeland. This is the time to work together with trusted Igbo leaders to secure our ancestral land. Igboland security apparatus should have been set up long before the Yorubas set up their Amotekun considering our history as genocide survivors, and the imminent security threat to our people and our homeland. We urge you to act quickly by pressing the houses to pass the
security laws, and setting up security apparatus to safeguard our people and protect our homeland.

“Finally, we are optimistic that you, as worthy sons of our land, motivated by the needs of our people, will engage relentlessly to improve their dividends of democracy not just in the areas of education, health, socio-economic activities, but also in the security of the
lives and properties of legitimate and law abiding residents of your state and every inch of Igboland. We reiterate that our affiliated Igbo organizations in the United States and all over the world are willing to work with you and contribute all we can to ensure ironclad security of our ancestral land.”

The group also copied governors of Delta and Rivers states, president-general of Ohanaeze Ndigbo and archbishops of Roman Catholic and Anglican Communion.

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‘You’re Lucky’ – Wike Blasts Sowore Over Comment on Tinubu

Published

2 hours ago

September 19, 2025

Bona Naija

‘You’re Lucky’ – Wike Knocks Sowore for Calling Tinubu a Criminal

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has strongly criticized activist and politician Omoyele Sowore for labeling President Bola Tinubu a “criminal.”

Speaking on Thursday during the flag-off of the construction of Arterial Road N1 from Wuye District to Ring Road II, Abuja, Wike said Sowore was “lucky” that Tinubu respects the rule of law, warning that not all leaders would tolerate such remarks.

“You Are Lucky,” Wike Tells Sowore

According to Wike:

“This is a country where somebody will go on social media and say Mr. President is a criminal and nothing will happen.

No matter how you see people criticize Trump, have you ever seen any Nigerian citizen on social media or in public say our president is a criminal? Have you ever heard that?

You are lucky you have a president that believes in the rule of law.

You are lucky, continue to be lucky because there are those you will meet and you won’t be lucky again.”

‘You’re Lucky’ – Wike Knocks Sowore for Calling Tinubu a Criminalpic.twitter.com/Dc6UOzW48w
— BONA NAIJA (@BonaNaija) September 18, 2025

Wike Cites Nigeria’s Freedom of Speech

The minister argued that the ability of citizens to openly criticize Tinubu demonstrates the level of freedom in Nigeria compared to other countries, including the United States.

His comments come amid growing political tensions, with Sowore and other critics frequently attacking the administration over governance, economy, and democracy.

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Business

Nigerians React as Shoprite Shuts Down Stores in Ibadan, Ilorin, and Shelves Empty in Lagos, Abuja

Published

3 hours ago

September 18, 2025

BONA NAIJA

Nigerians React as Shoprite Shuts Down Stores in Ibadan, Ilorin, and Shelves Empty in Lagos, Abuja

Shoprite shuts down outlets in Ibadan and Ilorin as shelves go empty in Lagos and Abuja. Nigerians react to the retail giant’s struggles amid inflation and rising competition.

Shoprite’s Struggles in Nigeria Deepen

Shoprite’s operations in Nigeria appear to be in crisis, four years after the South African retail giant exited the supermarket business.

Reports by Daily Trust confirm that outlets in Ibadan and Ilorin have closed, while stores still operating in Lagos, Abuja, and other major cities now have largely empty shelves.

From Expansion to Decline

Since opening its first Nigerian outlet in Lagos in 2005, Shoprite became a household name, growing into more than 25 stores across eight states and the Federal Capital Territory. At its peak, the chain directly employed over 2,000 workers and supported hundreds of local suppliers, particularly farmers.

But rising inflation, supply chain disruptions, and growing competition from local supermarkets have steadily weakened its dominance, pushing the brand into financial distress.

In 2021, Shoprite Holdings Limited sold its Nigerian business to local investors after retreating from several African markets including Ghana, Kenya, and Uganda—citing harsh operating conditions.

Nigerians React on Social Media

The closures have sparked a wave of reactions across social media, where Nigerians expressed a mix of nostalgia, disappointment, and calls for stronger homegrown supermarket chains.

On X (formerly Twitter), hashtags such as #ShopriteNigeria, #ShopriteClosure, and #NigerianRetail began trending:

“Shoprite shutting down is an end of an era. That place was our mini mall culture in the 2000s.” – @lagos_girl

“This should be a wake-up call. We need to support Nigerian-owned supermarkets like Justrite, Hubmart, and Ebeano.” – @naija_economist

“No more weekend hangouts at Shoprite. Sad, but not surprising with the way inflation is going.” – @femiwrites

“Shoprite was not just a supermarket, it was a social spot. I met my wife there in 2012. This hits different.” – @deji_lagos

“If Shoprite can’t survive here, it tells you everything about Nigeria’s business environment.” – @uchechukwu_onyi

What’s Next for Retail in Nigeria?

While many lament the decline of Shoprite, others see opportunity for local supermarkets to step into the gap. Brands like Justrite, Hubmart, Ebeano, and Spar could potentially take advantage of the vacuum.

With Shoprite’s uncertain future, the question remains: will Nigeria’s supermarket culture fade with its departure—or will indigenous brands reinvent it?

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News

Rivers Assembly Resumes After Six-Month Emergency Rule, Tasks Fubara on Commissioners and Budget

Published

9 hours ago

September 18, 2025

BONA NAIJA

Rivers Assembly Resumes After Emergency Rule, Tasks Fubara

The Rivers State House of Assembly on Thursday reconvened for plenary, marking its first session since the expiration of the six-month state of emergency imposed by President Bola Tinubu.

The sitting, presided over by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, held at the legislative quarters in Port Harcourt, comes just a day after Tinubu lifted emergency rule at midnight on September 17.

The emergency had been declared on March 18, 2025, following a constitutional impasse between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Assembly that crippled governance.

Before resumption, the outgone state administrator, Ibok-Ete Ibas, officially handed over to Governor Fubara and, in his farewell address, urged Rivers people to support the reinstated governor.

At Thursday’s plenary, the House passed two key resolutions: calling on Governor Fubara to immediately forward a list of Commissioner-nominees for screening and confirmation, and urging him to initiate the process of drafting an Appropriation Law for the remainder of the year.

Speaker Amaewhule stressed that these steps are vital for stabilising governance and ensuring effective service delivery. Lawmakers say the resolutions are aimed at normalising the state’s administration and addressing urgent citizen needs after months of political turbulence.

Meanwhile, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar criticised the suspension and reinstatement of Governor Fubara and the Assembly, describing Tinubu’s actions as “unconstitutional, illegal, and a clear sign of dictatorship.”

Governor Fubara is yet to respond publicly to the House’s resolutions.

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Business

Dangote Refinery Rejects DAPPMAN’s ₦1.5trn Subsidy Demand

Published

10 hours ago

September 18, 2025

BONA NAIJA

Dangote Refinery rejects DAPPMAN ₦1.505 trillion subsidy demand

Refinery insists it will not absorb logistics costs as marketers push for annual discount; warns subsidy practices defrauded Nigeria for years.

Dangote Refinery has dismissed claims by the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN), insisting that it will not bow to pressure to fund a subsidy of more than ₦1.5 trillion annually.

In a statement issued yesterday, the refinery said the controversy with DAPPMAN stems from marketers’ demand for an annual subsidy of ₦1.505 trillion to cover coastal freight, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) charges, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) fees, and pumping costs. This, according to Dangote, would translate to an additional ₦75 per litre on petrol and diesel, which the marketers expect the refinery to absorb.

“We will not increase our gantry price to accommodate such demands, nor are we willing to pay a subsidy of over ₦1.5 trillion — a practice that historically defrauded the Federal Government,” the company said. “Marketers are free to lift products directly at our gantry and benefit from our logistics-free initiative.”

The refinery disclosed that it maintains a monthly closing stock of 500 million litres, adding that between June and September it exported 3.2 million metric tonnes of refined products. Over the same period, it alleged, marketers imported 3.6 million metric tonnes, describing the imports as “dumping” that undermines the economy and welfare of Nigerians.

Dangote Petroleum Refinery reaffirmed its support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reforms, noting that its operations are helping to stabilise the naira, cushion the effect of subsidy removal, strengthen Nigeria’s refining capacity, boost foreign exchange earnings, and create jobs.

The company stressed that it enjoys a strong working relationship with government agencies but will not hesitate to hold institutions accountable where necessary.

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News

Ohanaeze Ndigbo Warns Soludo, Ekwunife, Ukachukwu Over Toxic Anambra 2025 Campaigns

Published

16 hours ago

September 18, 2025

BONA NAIJA

Ohanaeze Ndigbo Warns Soludo, Ekwunife, Ukachukwu Over Toxic Anambra 2025 Campaigns

Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, has issued a stern warning to leading candidates in the forthcoming Anambra governorship election over what it described as “shameful propaganda and divisive politicking.”

Anambra 2025 election

The group expressed deep concern at the conduct of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, his wife Mrs. Nnonye Soludo, APC candidate Evangelist Nicholas Ukachukwu, and his running mate Senator Uche Ekwunife, accusing them of dragging Anambra politics into “a pit of insults, hate speech, and public bickering.”

“Ohanaeze Ndigbo holds Governor Soludo especially responsible for setting this toxic tone,” the statement read. “The exchange of vulgar attacks, including the altercations between Mrs. Soludo and Senator Ekwunife, is unbecoming of leaders and an affront to womanhood.”

While stressing its neutrality, Ohanaeze warned it may be forced to support a neutral candidate if the attacks persist. “Enough is enough. If this disgraceful charade continues, we will question the moral and ethical fitness of these candidates to govern Ndi Anambra,” the statement declared.

The body urged all candidates to return to issue-based campaigns, focusing on policies, development, and the future of the state rather than personal insults.

READ FULL TEXT

ANAMBRA 2025; STOP WASHING YOUR DIRTY LILIES OUTSIDE AND DISGRACEFUL CONTENT CREATIONS – OHANAEZE NDIGBO WARNS SOLUDO, WIFE, EKWUNIFE, AND UKACHUKWU

The apex Igbo sociocultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, hereby issues a stern rebuke against the abhorrent politicking, divisive rhetoric, and shameless propaganda currently orchestrated by the Anambra gubernatorial candidates. We call for an immediate cessation of this disreputable conduct and demand a resumption of issue-based political campaigns as we approach the Anambra State Governorship Elections on November 9, 2025.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo feels compelled by its foundational mission to address the unsettling behavior exhibited by prominent political figures, specifically targeting the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) gubernatorial candidate and current Anambra Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo; his wife, Nnonye Soludo; the All Progressives Congress (APC) deputy gubernatorial candidate, Iyom Uche Ekwunife; and the APC gubernatorial candidate, Evangelist Nicholas Ukachukwu. This distressing trend of engendering hate speech and broadcasting calumnies not only tarnishes the collective image of the Igbo Nation but also represents a significant departure from the hallmark of dignity and respect that our people are known for.

The indignation felt by our tribe is profound as these once-respected political figures stagger embarrassingly into the public sphere, engaged in a sordid display of politicking that is captivating for all the wrong reasons. Their continuous descent into the vile pit of vulgarities and vituperations—aimed at each other’s political opponents—is unbecoming of esteemed individuals and demonstrates a blatant disregard for the cultural tenets of integrity and decorum that the Igbo people hold dear.

Without hesitation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo firmly holds Governor Soludo accountable for instigating this repugnant campaign of slander against his political adversaries. It is our duty to urge him to refrain from resorting to derogatory slogans and mockery, which undermine the very fabric of decency that should underpin political discourse. We categorically condemn the egregious verbal attacks exchanged between Governor Soludo’s wife and Senator Uche Ekwunife; such disgraceful behavior constitutes a lamentable affront to both motherhood and womanhood, and, as leaders, they must rise above this pettiness.

While Ohanaeze Ndigbo remains politically neutral in the forthcoming elections and does not endorse any particular candidate, we must unequivocally state that should Governor Soludo, his wife Nnonye, APC candidate Ukachukwu, and his running mate Ekwunife persist in their unscrupulous campaign tactics, we will be compelled to reconsider our stance. We may have no choice but to advocate for a neutral gubernatorial candidate in the elections as a drastic measure to quell this shameful spectacle. It becomes evident that continued participation in such a disgraceful charade raises serious questions about the moral and ethical qualifications of these candidates to govern the people of Anambra State.

In closing, let it be said with unwavering clarity: enough is enough. We implore all involved to return to issue-based campaigns and preserve the dignity of Anambra politics.

**Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro**

Deputy President General

Ohanaeze Ndigbo

Chief Chinemeze Ohia

National Spokesman

Ohanaeze Ndigbo

17th September 2025

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