The Forum of South-East Academic Doctors (FOSAD) has issued a strong condemnation of remarks attributed to Primate Elijah Babatunde Ayodele, describing his comments about the Igbo ethnic group as reckless, divisive and unbecoming of a religious leader.
Primate Ayodele had reportedly declared during a sermon that Igbos were “the problem of this country,” “desperate for power,” “cursed,” and would “never rule Nigeria.” The remarks have triggered widespread outrage, with FOSAD becoming the latest body to demand accountability over what it calls hate-filled rhetoric.
In a statement jointly signed by its President, Dr Stephen Nwala, and Secretary General, Dr Uzor Ngoladi, the academic group said the comments were inflammatory and capable of inciting ethnic hostility in an already fragile national environment.
FOSAD, a body of scholars committed to peacebuilding and national unity, described the statements as “dangerously divisive,” insisting that no responsible cleric should use the pulpit to promote ethnic hatred or reinforce stereotypes that undermine the country’s cohesion.
“The Igbo ethnic group, like every other major group in Nigeria, has contributed immensely to national development through industry, innovation, entrepreneurship, education and public service. To demonize them is not only historically false but morally reprehensible,” the group said.
FOSAD noted that Nigeria is currently grappling with multiple social and security challenges and warned that such comments could deepen mistrust and fuel unnecessary tensions.
“It is troubling that a cleric who should represent moderation, spiritual guidance and moral clarity chose instead to propagate sentiments capable of sowing discord,” the statement added.
The group called on the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), and other religious bodies to take disciplinary action and caution Primate Ayodele. It urged faith leaders to ensure that their platforms are not used to weaponize religion against any ethnic group.
FOSAD further advised Nigerians to remain vigilant and reject any rhetoric that threatens national unity, urging all communities to continue promoting justice, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.
“The Igbo people will not be defined by hate speech,” the organisation concluded. “They remain committed to a peaceful, united and prosperous Nigeria built on equity and fairness.”
The statement was signed by Dr Stephen Nwala and Dr Uzor Ngoladi on behalf of the Forum of South-East Academic Doctors.
