“I Am Not a Jew. I Am Igbo” — Lawyer Joe Abah Rejects Claims of Igbo-Israelite Migration

Lawyer and former Director-General of the Bureau of Public Service Reforms, Dr. Joe Abah, has openly dismissed the claim that the Igbo people of southeastern Nigeria are Jews who migrated from Israel.

In a strongly worded statement shared via his verified X handle on July 31, 2025, Dr. Abah emphasized the indigenous origins of his people.

“I am not a Jew. I am Igbo. We didn’t migrate from Israel or anywhere else. My people were created by God in Uburu in the present Ebonyi State. My ancestral home has been there from the beginning of time. Some still go there to offer sacrifices and swear oaths. Igbo! No apologies,” he wrote.

His post quickly sparked reactions online, with many agreeing with his stance. A user, @kenzy_iam, replied, “I don’t know who is giving our people that orientation that they migrated from somewhere,” accompanied by a crying emoji.

Dr. Abah responded with a brief but telling reply: *“I tire o.”*

The statement adds to the ongoing cultural and historical debate regarding the origins of the Igbo people. While some believe in a connection to ancient Israel, others like Dr. Abah assert that Igbos are indigenous to their current homeland in Nigeria.