VDM: Igbo Community Assembly Calls For Responsible Public Discourse

Igbo Community Assembly Abuja has called for responsible public discourse and adherence to due process following a viral social media video that raised allegations about a business transaction involving one of its leaders.

During a press conference in Abuja, the chairman, Chief Ositadimma Nwoye, emphasised the need for Nigerians to avoid spreading unverified information that could damage reputations and create unnecessary tension in society.

The group said it was reacting to a viral video in which Mr Ifeanyi Udezue claimed through social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), regarding a business transaction involving Chief Austin Oguejiofor.

According to the Assembly, Oguejiofor, also known as Onwa Enugwu-Ukwu, is the chairman and chief executive officer of First Rotech Group and has built a reputation in the real estate sector spanning more than three decades.

The group noted that the businessman has also supported several organisations and initiatives, serving as Grand Patron of Ohanaeze Youth Worldwide, Grand Patron of Anambra State Association Europe, Grand Patron of Anambra State Association Turkey, and Grand Patron of the Radio Television Theatre and Arts Workers Union of Nigeria.

The Assembly also expressed concern over the manner in which respected Igbo elder and business leader Arthur Eze was referenced in the viral content.

“Respected leaders within our community deserve to be addressed with the decorum and dignity befitting their status,” the Group said.

The group further noted that issues relating to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC were mentioned in the viral video but clarified that available documentation shows the petition earlier submitted to the EFCC had been withdrawn.

“Available information and documentation indicate that the petition earlier submitted to the EFCC was subsequently withdrawn… which contradicts the narrative suggesting compromise by the anti-graft agency,” the Assembly stated.

According to the group, documents such as registration records from the Corporate Affairs Commission and legal search reports relating to the business transaction also exist and provide additional context to the matter currently being discussed publicly.

The Assembly also referenced claims in the video that the content creator had held discussions with High Chief Oguejiofor, urging that the outcome of such interactions be presented in full to ensure fairness and balanced public understanding.

Calling for restraint, the group urged all parties to resolve disputes through lawful channels.

“Where disagreements arise from business transactions, the most appropriate avenue for resolution remains a court of competent jurisdiction or other legally recognised dispute-resolution mechanisms,” he added.

The Igbo Community Assembly further appealed to social media commentators to exercise caution and due diligence when discussing sensitive matters involving individuals and community institutions.