Genocide claims against Ebonyi Governor unfounded – Rep. Ogah

2026-02-18 - 15:56

By Gift ChapiOdekina, Abuja Hon. Chinedu Ogah, the House of Representatives member for Ezza South/Ikwo Federal Constituency in Ebonyi State, has dismissed allegations of genocide against Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, calling them baseless and misleading. The claims were made by human rights activist Mrs. Joy Idam, who accused the governor of committing genocide against the Amasiri community amid a protracted land dispute with a neighbouring area. Speaking at a press briefing, Ogah urged Idam to apologise, describing her statements as inflammatory and disconnected from the reality on the ground. He highlighted that the governor has taken proactive measures to resolve communal conflicts, restore peace, and tackle insecurity across Ebonyi State. “Before Governor Nwifuru’s administration, nearly ten communities were engaged in various communal clashes. Today, most of these conflicts have been resolved through proactive engagement and people-centred governance,” Ogah said. He explained that following renewed tensions in Amasiri, a panel was constituted to investigate the dispute, and a temporary curfew was imposed to prevent further violence. The curfew has since been relaxed as peace returned. Ogah also noted the governor’s achievements in youth empowerment, infrastructure development, and inclusive governance, citing overseas scholarships for about 400 Ebonyi youths and ongoing classroom construction projects. He argued that Idam, who has been absent from the state for years, lacks firsthand knowledge and therefore should retract her claims. “The allegation of genocide is completely false. The governor has worked tirelessly to ensure peace, stability, and development in Ebonyi State,” Ogah concluded.