Ohanaeze Reacts to Asari Dokubo’s Claim of Igbos Attacking Northern Muslims in Rivers

The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has dismissed allegations by Asari Dokubo that Igbos are attacking Northern Muslims in Rivers State.

In a statement released on Monday in Port Harcourt, the group described the claim as false and capable of heightening ethnic and religious tension. The statement was issued by the Rivers State chapter president of the organisation, Livingstone Wechie.

Dokubo had circulated a video online alleging that members of the Igbo community were behind recent violence involving Northern Muslims and were attempting to destabilise the state.

Ohanaeze said the allegation followed a clash last Saturday at the Oil Mill Fruit Market in Rumuokwurusi, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area. According to the group, the incident stemmed from a disagreement between a trader and a wheelbarrow pusher, which later escalated.

The confrontation reportedly led to the death of a 30-year-old man from Benue State, identified as Higightor Wenem, allegedly killed by a cart pusher, Zakara Afaaruwu. The development triggered tension between members of the Benue and Hausa communities in the area.

The group stated that there was no evidence linking Igbos to the incident and rejected claims that mosques were attacked or that the clash had a religious motive. It added that Igbos include both Christians and Muslims and do not target any group based on faith.

Ohanaeze also referenced a statement by the Rivers State Police Command, which confirmed that security operatives intervened promptly to restore order and prevent further escalation.

The organisation urged residents to disregard statements that could inflame tensions and called on members of the Igbo community in Rivers State to remain calm and law-abiding.