The Leader of the Igbo Community in Ghana has broken his silence over what he describes as “defamatory and completely unfounded” accusations made against him by politician Hassan Ayariga.
Hassan Ayariga had reportedly alleged that Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu is disguising himself as a businessman while engaging in sex and human trafficking.
These claims, the Igbo leader said in an interview, are not only damaging but deeply irresponsible.
“You have to prove it. You can’t accuse somebody of what is not right. That is defamation of character. I don’t even know who he is. I see him as a presidential candidate. He’s not my friend. I’ve never come across him anywhere in my life.”
He also clarified reports involving his invitation by the National Intelligence Bureau, explaining that it had nothing to do with Ayariga’s allegations.
According to him, the invitation was connected to the trending issue of the ‘kingdom controversy’ involving his community, which has sparked heated discussions and misinformation on the internet.
“For him to be on air, saying he ordered National Security to arrest me—he ordered them as who? A judge? A president? A friend? That’s not how a public figure should speak. There was never a protest at my house. Some people just took my pictures and placed them alongside protest scenes online. That’s fake. And there are even threats on social media targeting Nigerians. So it’s only normal that state security would want to hear from me.”
On whether he plans to sue Ayariga for the defamation, the Igbo leader simply responded that he leaves him to God.
The controversy is over reports surrounding the king, Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu’s alleged acquisition of over 50 acres of land to build an “Igbo Village” community in Ghana, contrary to state laws.
