A prominent socio-political organization, the World Igbo National Union (WINU), has strongly criticized Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, for his recent statement alleging that 99.9% of criminals hiding in South-East forests are Igbo.
Governor Soludo’s comment, reportedly made during an event in Maryland, USA, has triggered widespread backlash from Igbo stakeholders, civil society groups, and rights activists who described it as divisive and damaging.
In a statement issued by its Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ifeanyi Uwakwa, WINU described the governor’s claim as “reckless, insensitive, and unsupported by evidence.” The group demanded that Soludo either present concrete proof to justify his statement or issue a public apology for what they termed “the demonization of Ndigbo for political appeasement.”
“We call on Governor Soludo to substantiate his remarks with credible evidence or tender an unreserved apology for making such an inflammatory claim to please political sponsors,” the statement read.
WINU expressed disbelief that a “renowned scholar and former Central Bank Governor” would make such sweeping generalizations without thorough investigation. The group noted that multiple local and international reports have instead linked attacks in South-East forests to armed herdsmen allegedly sponsored by external interests.
“Both local and foreign reports have consistently identified heavily armed herders as major perpetrators of violence in rural communities across Igboland,” WINU stated.
The organization also accused Governor Soludo of turning a blind eye to documented attacks by terrorist herdsmen in communities like Mgbakwu, Igboariam, Umueri, Umunze, Ogbunka, and Amansea, while unfairly blaming Igbo youths, who are often the victims.
“Framing the victims as perpetrators is unacceptable and must stop. Why is the governor silent on the crimes of these terrorist herdsmen while shifting blame to his own people?” the group questioned.
WINU urged Governor Soludo to take inspiration from other South-East governors adopting evidence-based strategies to address insecurity, rather than relying on politically motivated narratives.
Additionally, the group warned the governor against supporting the controversial Waterways/RUGA Bill, stressing that any attempt to establish RUGA settlements in Anambra State would be firmly resisted.
“The people of Anambra have already rejected RUGA in all its forms. Governor Soludo must choose to stand with his people instead of chasing political favors from outside interests,” the statement added.
In conclusion, WINU called on Soludo to focus on safeguarding the lives, dignity, and economic future of the Igbo people, warning that politicizing security challenges could deepen distrust and worsen the insecurity already facing the region.
“We remain united in our demand for truth, accountability, and protection of our ancestral land. It is time for the governor to choose leadership over political convenience,” WINU declared.
