A former acting chairman of the Labour Party in Abia State, Kelechi Madugba, has dismissed allegations linking him to the sponsorship of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), describing the claims as untrue and baseless.
In a statement made available to Punch in Umuahia, Madugba refuted the petition and publication, accusing him of supporting IPOB, asserting that it was orchestrated by political enemies aiming to tarnish his reputation.
I Am Not An IPOB Sponsor Or Sympathiser
Madugba categorically denied any association with IPOB or its members. “I am neither a sponsor nor a sympathizer of IPOB. I do not know any member of the group, nor have I ever interacted with any known IPOB member,” he said.
Tracing his political career, Madugba highlighted his roles in public service and his commitment to a unified Nigeria.
He stated, “I was a former acting state chairman of the Labour Party in Abia State, a former candidate under the Accord Party for the House of Representatives, and a former candidate for the same position under the New Nigeria Peoples Party for Isialangwa North/South federal constituency in the last 2023 general elections.
“I have contributed immensely as a community builder, fostering unity and progress for the development of my state and Nigeria as a whole. I strongly believe in One Nigeria.”
To further debunk the allegations, Madugba made his financial records public, listing account details for verification.
“For the avoidance of doubt, I have herein published all my account details for anyone who cares to crosscheck if any of my accounts, both company and individual, have received any money capable of sponsoring a separatist movement such as IPOB,” he said, listing account details from UBA, First Bank, Heritage Bank, and Ecobank.
Naijaonpoint reports that Madugba also disclosed that his legal team has been instructed to take necessary actions to address the alleged defamation.
He called on the public to ignore the petition and publication, labelling it as a smear campaign.
“This public notice shall serve as my official response to these baseless allegations. The claims are misleading and deliberately intended to smear my hard-earned reputation,” Madugba stated.
Madugba concluded by reaffirming his dedication to service, highlighting his achievements in business and politics.
“I have paid my dues wherever duty has called upon me in Nigeria, both in the business sector as the CEO and Chairman of Gemka Oils and Gas Limited and as a director in other successful companies across the country,” he said.