The Apex Igbo Sociocultural Organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, issues this stern statement to reaffirm its unwavering commitment to justice, accountability, and the dignity of the Igbo people. This press release serves as a definitive reminder to all those who engage in political oppression targeting Ndigbo: the time for reconciliation is now. The consequences of past transgressions cannot and will not be erased by calculated political maneuvering.

The recent Annual Odenigbo Lectures, held at the Assumpta Cathedral in Owerri, Imo State, showcased the indomitable resolve of the Igbo community. The Honorable Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, former Governor of Kaduna State, faced a resounding and unequivocal rejection—a potent reflection of the perceived wrongs he has committed. This response was not merely a display of disapproval; it was a powerful articulation of the collective memory and enduring pain of the Igbo people.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo emphasizes the undeniable truth: the predominantly Christian audience at the Odenigbo Lectures recognized El-Rufai as a figure burdened by allegations of egregious actions against the Christian population of Southern Kaduna. During his eight-year tenure as Governor, these communities, largely composed of Igbo people, reportedly endured a reign of terror, leading to immeasurable loss of life and property.

We, therefore, convey this clear message, rooted in historical truth, to all advocates of political oppression, past and present, and specifically to Mallam Nasir El-Rufai: the Ndigbo are known for their patience and capacity for forgiveness, but they are emphatically *not* forgetful. The atrocities committed against our people, particularly regarding the Southern Kaduna crisis, cannot be overlooked.

We believe El-Rufai’s presence at the Odenigbo Lectures was a calculated move, driven by ambitions for a future political role, possibly as a Vice Presidential candidate. His intent seemed twofold: first, to reshape the narrative surrounding the tragic loss of over 2,570 Igbo Christians and the destruction of over 2.3 trillion Naira worth of investments during his administration; and second, to assess Igbo sentiment and rebuild the damaged bridges he himself had created.

Unbeknownst to El-Rufai, the audience he addressed in Owerri consisted of many families of those who perished in the Southern Kaduna massacres, as well as survivors of the systematic destruction of their churches. The protests that ensued and El-Rufai’s hasty retreat from the venue served as a powerful signal—a forewarning of the consequences awaiting any political party or Presidential candidate who considers nominating him for a leadership position.

The Igbo people, driven by a fundamental sense of justice, seek nothing more than the acknowledgment of truth. We demand that Mallam Nasir El-Rufai confess his role in the Southern Kaduna atrocities and offer an unreserved apology to the Igbo nation. Only then, and *only then*, will the path to forgiveness and reconciliation be opened. The road to genuine healing requires truth, accountability, and a steadfast commitment to justice and human dignity.

Signed:

Mazi Okechukwu ISIGUZORO 
Deputy President General 
Ohanaeze Ndigbo 

Chief Thompson Ohia 
National Spokesman 
Ohanaeze Ndigbo 

7th September 2025