The National Igbo Youth Movement, a socio-cultural youth organisation, has condemned the ongoing defamation of character directed at the Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM).
In a statement Thursday, the Group frowned at the remarks of some certain individuals who pretend to be speaking for the Igbos but descending to the gutters and throwing divisive comments at the woman.
“Hon. Abike Dabiri has consistently demonstrated commitment to the welfare and progress of Nigerians living abroad. She has stood firmly for our people in times of difficulty and has been a strong advocate for unity and national development,” the statement reads in part.
“It is therefore surprising and disheartening to see her character being maligned by certain individuals claiming to speak for the Igbo community. We wish to state clearly that the National Igbo Youth Movement disassociates itself from any such attacks and condemn them in their entirety.
“We also call upon all Igbo associations and communities across the Diaspora—in the UK, the US, Dubai, and beyond—to unite in one voice, uphold the truth, and foster peace and cooperation.
“We understand that there are some who may feel targeted because of involvement in unlawful activities such as drug trafficking or human trafficking. However, Hon. Abike Dabiri’s stand is not against any particular group of Nigerians; rather, her mission is to protect the image of Nigeria and promote the well-being of all law-abiding citizens abroad.
“As such, we, the National Igbo Youth Movement, stand firmly with Hon. Abike Dabiri in her work for the good of our people and our nation. Let us come together in unity, reject defamation, and work for the betterment of Nigeria. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”