Obi Cubana clarifies Enugu remarks, denies insult on Ndigbo
Chairman of Cubana Group, Obinna Iyiegbu, has clarified his recent remarks in Enugu, saying they were misconstrued and taken out of context. Iyiegbu, popularly known as Obi Cubana, said a
- By Chinyere Okoroafor
Chairman of Cubana Group, Obinna Iyiegbu, has clarified his recent remarks in Enugu, saying they were misconstrued and taken out of context.
Iyiegbu, popularly known as Obi Cubana, said a three-minute speech he delivered was reduced to a 10-second clip and circulated with what he described as “gross misrepresentation.”
He insisted that his comments were not intended to disparage Ndigbo but to draw attention to key issues, including civic responsibility, patience and informed participation in governance.
In an interview with BBC Igbo, the businessman said his remarks were borne out of concern for the progress of the Igbo people.
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"My speech was perhaps deliberately misunderstood. I did not intend to insult Ndigbo. I spoke out of concern and a desire for progress,” he said.
He stressed that in a democratic setting, citizens have the right to support candidates of their choice without fear or intimidation, urging peaceful political participation.
Iyiegbu also explained that the controversial aspect of his speech was meant to highlight the need for increased involvement of the Southeast in governance to avoid marginalisation in the distribution of projects and development opportunities.
He dismissed claims that he suggested Ndigbo “lack knowledge,” describing such interpretations as misleading.
Reaffirming his ties to the region, Iyiegbu said his contributions to the economic and social development of Igboland reflect his commitment to its growth.
“As a proud son of the soil, everything I have said and done has always been in the interest of progress, peace and prosperity for Ndigbo,” he added.
He urged Ndigbo at home and in the diaspora to remain united and avoid actions capable of causing division, while advocating dialogue, mutual respect and collective responsibility as drivers of sustainable development.
