Igbo Youth Leaders Dismiss Reports of Alleged Call for Youths to Arm Themselves

The Igbo Youth Leaders and Stakeholders Assembly has dismissed reports alleging that the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief John Mbata, called on Igbo youths aged 18 and above to arm themselves against suspected terrorists in the South-East.

In a statement issued by the group’s leader, Mazi Chukwuma Okpalaezeukwu, the assembly described the reports as false, misleading and lacking any factual basis.

“We categorically state that our leader and President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide did not and can never make such a call for arms. This malicious propaganda and criminal blackmail, for whatever purpose or intention, is dead on arrival,” Okpalaezeukwu said.

He described Mbata as a respected statesman and patriot with impeccable character and an outstanding record of service, insisting that the allegation was deliberately fabricated to mislead the public.

The group condemned what it described as mischievous insinuations and urged members of the public to disregard the report. It also advised citizens to always verify sensitive information before sharing it to avoid spreading misinformation.

The assembly further called on the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Inspector-General of Police, the Department of State Services and other relevant authorities to investigate the source of the claim and ensure that those responsible are identified and prosecuted.

According to the statement, the circulation of such false reports could undermine peace and security in the South-East, a region it noted is already grappling with insecurity, perceived marginalisation and developmental challenges.

“The South-East remains a region with unique challenges, including insecurity, perceived marginalisation, neglect and the absence of major capital projects. The circulation of such false statements only worsens an already delicate situation,” the group stated.