Reuben Abati, a Nigerian journalist and former presidential spokesperson, has responded to critics who were upset by his recent comments on land purchases in the Southeast region. Abati made these comments during a morning show on Arise TV.
According to Naijawebinfo, Abati shared a personal anecdote about a former minister of information, Theophilus Benson, who stated that Igbos in the Southeast do not sell land to outsiders. He recounted how the late minister, who had an Igbo wife and daughter, had wanted to purchase land in Igbo territory for his daughter and wife, but was told by his in-laws that they do not sell land to non-Igbo individuals.
Abati pointed out the irony in this situation, noting that the same Igbos who are known for their hard work and success in other parts of the country are also restrictive about selling land to outsiders. He compared this situation to other aspects of Nigerian politics, saying that it highlights the complexities of the country’s federal system.
Reactions to Abati’s comments were mixed, with some people agreeing with his perspective and others criticizing him for discussing a sensitive topic like ethnicity. Unfazed by the backlash, Abati has stated that he is unapologetic about his statement and has no plans to back down.
The full video of the morning show can be viewed below:
This news was originally published on Naijawebinfo.
