The Yoruba socio‑cultural organization Afenifere has condemned a remark made by Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, Chairman of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Council of Elders, which it says ridiculed the Yoruba people. The group reported receiving numerous complaints from Yoruba sons and daughters about Iwuanyanwu’s comment. In a statement titled “RE: THE DIVISIVE AWKA COMMENT BY CHIEF EMMANUEL IWUANYANWU,” released on Sunday, National Organising Secretary Abagun Omololu said the comment was made in Awka, Anambra State, on Saturday.
According to the statement, Iwuanyanwu had earlier denounced individuals he described as “political rascals” who were stoking ethnic tensions in Lagos State. He asserted that there was no war between the Igbo and the Yoruba, emphasizing that both groups are invested in Nigeria and will not be driven away by pressure. He urged Lagos residents to recognise the absence of conflict between the two ethnicities and warned that the elders had instructed the Ohanaeze Ndigbo secretary‑general to establish a commission of inquiry to investigate any damage, stating that “people are going to pay.”
Afenifere announced its intention to contact Ohanaeze Ndigbo leadership for an explanation of Iwuanyanwu’s remarks. The organization called on Ohanaeze to warn the chief against insulting the Yoruba, describing the Yoruba as a proud, hospitable nation whose civility should not be mistaken for weakness. “Enough of the provocation,” the statement read.
Omololu also appealed to the Yoruba to remain calm, peaceful, and loving toward the Igbo and all Nigerians, reminding that “we are one people under one nation and one God.” He highlighted the long history of cooperation between the Yoruba and their Igbo brothers and sisters, noting that Nigeria’s diversity is a strength in the community of nations. He urged all Yoruba to maintain good relations with other ethnic groups at home and abroad, emphasizing that humanity outweighs any divisive antics or careless remarks.
Finally, Omololu affirmed that the Yoruba are globally recognized for promoting peace, unity, and orderliness, and urged the community to uphold these virtues for the sake of peace, progress, and prosperity in Nigeria and the world.
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