The Obi of Onitsha, Nnaemeka Achebe has denied issuing any warning to northern youths over the killing of hunters in Edo state.
In a statement on Thursday by his chief of staff, Osita Anionwu said the monarch has not made any statement concerning the incident in Edo State.
The statement came after claims of the traditional ruler cautioning northerners against any reprisal attacks on Igbo following the killing of 16 hunters in the state.
Achebe, who described the claim as “inaccurate” and “inflammatory”, urged the public to disregard the report.
“The Palace of the Obi of Onitsha wishes to inform the general public that His Majesty, Nnaemeka Achebe (Agbogidi), has made no statement regarding the recent killing of northerners in Edo state,” the statement reads.
“Furthermore, he has issued no warnings to anyone on the matter. This is another instance in a growing pattern of attributing fake statements to His Majesty, intending to stir disaffection.
“The statement attributed to him is not only inaccurate but also inflammatory. We urge the public to disregard the fabricated statement and instead focus on promoting unity and understanding.
“As a champion of peace and harmony among all Nigerians, His Majesty remains committed to fostering an environment of mutual respect and cooperation among people of different ethnic and regional backgrounds. Let us work together to build bridges, not walls,” the statement read.
