A pro-Igbo socio-political group, the World Igbo National Union (WINU), has strongly criticized Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, over his recent claim that 99.9% of criminals hiding in South East forests are Igbos.
The controversial statement, reportedly made by Governor Soludo during an event in Maryland, USA, has triggered widespread outrage and backlash from Igbo stakeholders and civil society organizations.
In a statement released by its Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ifeanyi Uwakwa, on Wednesday, July 9, WINU described the governor’s remarks as “insensitive and baseless.” The group demanded that Soludo either provide credible evidence to support his claim or issue a public apology for what it called the “demonization of Ndigbo.”
“We demand that Governor Soludo provides proof to back his speech in the United States, or he should tender a public apology for his insensitive and callous remarks, made just to appease political sponsors,” the statement read.
WINU expressed dismay that a “renowned scholar” like Soludo would make such a sweeping allegation without proper investigation, particularly when multiple reports — both local and international — have pointed to criminal herdsmen as major perpetrators of violence in forests and farmlands across the South East.
“Foreign and local reports indicate that herdsmen, armed with sophisticated weapons and sponsored by unnamed interests, have been the primary actors in the attacks on rural communities in Igboland,” the group added.
WINU further accused Soludo of turning a blind eye to the documented activities of violent herders in Anambra communities including Mgbakwu, Igboariam, Umueri, Umunze, Ogbunka, and Amansea, while wrongly blaming the victims.
“Framing the victims as perpetrators is a shameful tactic. It must cease. Why is the governor covering up the atrocities of these terrorist herdsmen while shifting blame to Igbo youths?” WINU asked.
The group urged Governor Soludo to adopt a more proactive and evidence-based approach to addressing insecurity, as demonstrated by other South East governors, instead of resorting to political rhetoric.
WINU also warned the governor against supporting the controversial Waterways/RUGA Bill, stating that any attempt to introduce RUGA settlements in Anambra State would be firmly resisted.
“Anambra people have already rejected any proposal for RUGA settlements. The governor must align with his people rather than pursuing political benefits from external actors,” the statement added.
In conclusion, WINU called on Governor Soludo to prioritize the safety, dignity, and aspirations of the Igbo people, cautioning that politicizing security issues would only further erode public trust and worsen insecurity in the region.
“We stand united in our call for truth, accountability, and the protection of our land. Governor Soludo must choose the path of leadership, not political appeasement,” the group stated.
