Former Nigerian Finance Minister and current Director-General of the World Trade Organization, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has forcefully rebuked Simon Ekpa, a controversial figure associated with the separatist movement in southeastern Nigeria.
Okonjo-Iweala took to social media to address a false statement attributed to her by Ekpa.
She categorically denied the claims and warned against the misuse of her name in spreading fake news.
The incident sparked heated online exchanges between the two prominent figures, drawing widespread attention across Nigeria.
The Tweet That Sparked Outrage
The issue began when Okonjo-Iweala responded to a tweet falsely attributed to her, which had gained traction online.
In her reaction, she did not mince words, calling the statement fake and urging those behind it to stop using her name for falsehoods.
“I know no sensible person will believe what is contained in the outrageous tweet,” she wrote.
“But in these troubled times, it is important to underscore that the statement is false.”
Her firm rejection of the fake news quickly gathered support online, with many Nigerians rallying behind her call for the truth.
The former minister expressed frustration at being dragged into the controversy by those trying to use her name for their own agenda.
Simon Ekpa’s Response
Simon Ekpa, the pro-Biafran activist and vocal critic of the Nigerian government, responded swiftly.
He denied having posted the tweet in question and expressed surprise that Okonjo-Iweala had publicly called him out.
In his response, Ekpa accused the former minister of ignoring what he described as the ongoing violence in Nigeria’s southeast, which he attributes to the actions of the government.
“It is even surprising that you can tweet this because your name was mentioned, but you have been mute about all the killings by the government you served,” Ekpa wrote in response to Okonjo-Iweala.
Ekpa’s comments highlighted his frustrations with what he sees as the former finance minister’s silence on issues affecting the region.
While denying the fake tweet, he sarcastically congratulated Okonjo-Iweala for defending her integrity, even when dealing with “photoshopped” statements.
Okonjo-Iweala’s Reputation and Public Support
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most respected public figures.
Her track record in government, coupled with her current leadership role at the World Trade Organization, has earned her global recognition.
Many Nigerians came out in support of her, criticizing Ekpa for dragging her into a political dispute through fake news.
One Twitter user commented, “It’s a shame that someone of Okonjo-Iweala’s caliber has to defend herself against such lies.”
The support from Nigerians showcased the deep respect many still have for Okonjo-Iweala, both at home and abroad.
Her quick response to the fake tweet was seen as a necessary move to protect her name from being associated with falsehoods.
The Fight Against Fake News
The exchange between Okonjo-Iweala and Simon Ekpa highlights the growing issue of fake news in Nigeria.
As social media continues to influence public opinion, the spread of misinformation has become a serious problem, particularly during times of political tension.
In recent years, Nigeria has seen a surge in the spread of false information, especially on platforms like Twitter (now rebranded as X), where political activists and government critics are increasingly vocal.
Okonjo-Iweala’s situation is not unique, as many high-profile individuals have fallen victim to fake news and online manipulation.
However, her prompt and direct response serves as a reminder of the dangers of allowing such misinformation to fester.
In her tweet, she stressed the importance of caution in these troubled times, where false information can easily mislead the public.
“We must remain vigilant against those who seek to misuse our names and reputations for their own gain,” Okonjo-Iweala added.
Her words resonated with many Nigerians, who are increasingly wary of the spread of unverified claims.
Simon Ekpa’s Controversial Role
Simon Ekpa has been a polarizing figure in Nigeria, particularly for his involvement in advocating for the Biafran cause.
A former disciple of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Ekpa has gained a reputation for his radical views and his push for the southeast region’s independence from Nigeria.
His involvement in spreading messages related to the agitation for Biafra has drawn mixed reactions, with some seeing him as a champion for the people of the southeast, while others view him as an instigator of conflict and division.
Ekpa’s activities have also drawn the attention of Nigerian authorities, with some accusing him of inciting violence in the region.
His latest clash with Okonjo-Iweala adds another layer to his controversial image, as he continues to use his platform to challenge Nigeria’s leadership.