The Igbo Youth Leaders and Stakeholders Assembly has dismissed as false a statement circulating on social media alleging that the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Senator John Mbata, called on Igbo men to take up arms in response to insecurity in the South-East.
In a statement signed by its leader, Mazi Chukwuma Okpalaezeukwu, the group described the claim as fake news and urged the public to disregard it.
The assembly stressed that Mbata, as head of the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, neither made nor would make any statement encouraging violence or armed mobilisation, noting that such a call would run contrary to the values and objectives of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.
It condemned what it described as malicious propaganda aimed at blackmailing the Ohanaeze President-General and misleading the public, urging citizens to verify sensitive information before sharing it.
The group also called on relevant security agencies, including the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Inspector-General of Police and the Department of State Services, to investigate the source of the alleged statement and bring those responsible to justice.
While acknowledging that insecurity remains a major concern in the South-East, the assembly warned that the spread of misinformation could further heighten tensions in the region.
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It noted ongoing efforts by political leaders and security agencies to improve safety, advocating political dialogue and non-violent approaches as the most effective means of addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.
The assembly further commended ongoing development initiatives in the region and urged authorities to strengthen collaboration with state governments and key stakeholders to ensure improved security and sustainable development.
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