Tension is rising in the South-East as the World Igbo National Union (WINU) has slammed Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, over his controversial claim that 99.9% of criminals hiding in South-East forests are Igbos.
Soludo allegedly made the statement during a recent event in Maryland, USA, sparking widespread anger among Igbo leaders, civil society groups, and residents, who described his remarks as unfair and dangerous.
In a strongly worded statement signed by WINU’s Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ifeanyi Uwakwa, the group demanded Soludo either present concrete evidence to support his assertion or publicly apologise for what they called an attempt to “demonise Ndigbo just to please political sponsors.”
“It is shocking that a respected scholar like Soludo would make such sweeping statements without evidence, especially when reports show criminal herdsmen are behind many of the attacks on rural communities,” WINU said.
The group accused Soludo of ignoring the documented terror unleashed by armed herders in areas like Mgbakwu, Igboariam, Umueri, Umunze, Ogbunka, and Amansea, while blaming innocent Igbo youths instead.
“Portraying victims as criminals is shameful and must stop,” the statement added.
WINU further urged the governor to learn from other South-East leaders adopting practical, evidence-based approaches to tackle insecurity, rather than relying on controversial narratives.
They also warned Soludo against supporting the Waterways/RUGA Bill, threatening that any attempt to introduce RUGA settlements in Anambra would face stiff resistance.
“Anambra people have rejected RUGA completely. Governor Soludo should stand with his people, not chase political favour outside Igboland,” WINU stated.
Concluding, the group urged the governor to prioritise the safety, dignity and rights of the Igbo people, warning that politicising security issues will only worsen distrust and deepen the region’s challenges.
“We call for truth, accountability and real action—not blame games,” WINU declared.
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