99.99% of kidnappers in Anambra are Igbos, not Fulani herdsmen – Soludo

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has emphasized that the vast majority of kidnappings and violent crimes in Anambra and other South-East states are committed by Igbo criminals, countering the widespread belief that such acts are primarily the work of Fulani herdsmen.

During a town hall meeting with Anambra indigenes in the Diaspora at the Metro Points Hotel in New Carrollton, Maryland, Soludo declared, “99.99 per cent of kidnappers and other criminals arrested in the state since I assumed office three years ago have been Igbos.” This statement underscored his ongoing efforts to engage with the diaspora community and report on his administration’s achievements and challenges.

In a video that has gained traction on social media, he dismissed what he called a “dangerous and misleading narrative,” asserting, “It is not Fulani herdsmen, but homegrown criminal elements terrorising the South-East.”

Soludo pointed out that many who portray themselves as “liberators” hiding in the forests are actually Igbo youths who engage in criminal activities for personal enrichment.

“Let’s stop deceiving ourselves,” he urged. “Ask yourselves: how do these so-called liberators survive in the forests for months without local support? Who feeds them?”

The governor further stated, “In my three years and three months in office, nearly every kidnapper and armed criminal we have apprehended is Igbo. Igbos are kidnapping and killing fellow Igbos—not Fulani herdsmen. Anambra belongs to all of us. Our progress is a shared responsibility.”

Encouraging those in the Diaspora to adopt the “think home” philosophy, he called for investments in the homeland and contributions of skills and resources to enhance its growth.

Accompanied by his Chief of Staff, Ernest Ezeajughi, Soludo delivered a candid overview of his administration’s progress in various sectors, including infrastructure, education, healthcare, youth empowerment, and security.

Also present was Nigeria’s Charge d’Affaires in Washington, D.C., Ambassador Samson Itegboje, who stressed the importance of diaspora involvement in national development.

Following the governor’s address, a dynamic question-and-answer session allowed attendees to engage directly with him on governance and security issues. Many praised his performance, with one participant stating, “He’s the most transparent and development-focused governor we’ve had. At least he’s telling the truth—even if it’s uncomfortable.”

Source: PUNCH