APC, ASO Slam Steve Osuji Over Call for Dabiri-Erewa’s Resignation

By David Odama

The All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Asiwaju Support Organisation (ASO), Texas chapter, have strongly condemned a recent article by journalist Steve Osuji calling for the resignation of Hon. Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa.

In a statement signed by Engr. Tayo Ogunjimi, the group described Osuji’s remarks as divisive and misleading, warning that such rhetoric could stoke unnecessary ethnic tension.

The statement reaffirmed support for the Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, lauding her as a detribalised Nigerian who has consistently demonstrated fairness, compassion, and commitment to the welfare of Nigerians in the diaspora.

Fondly nicknamed “Mama Diaspora” and “Mother Teresa” for her humanitarian efforts, Dabiri-Erewa was commended for her pioneering role in advancing diaspora affairs and elevating Nigeria’s global presence.

The group highlighted her distinguished career as a broadcaster-turned-parliamentarian, recalling her co-sponsorship of landmark legislations such as the Freedom of Information Bill, the Violence Against Persons Bill, the Disability Integration Bill, and the Nigerian Diaspora Commission Bill, which established NiDCOM.

Since assuming leadership at NiDCOM, Dabiri-Erewa has introduced innovative programmes to harness the potential of Nigerians abroad while keeping diaspora issues in national focus.

Responding to allegations that Dabiri-Erewa once referred to Igbos as “monkeys and baboons,” the group dismissed the claim as a malicious falsehood. It clarified that the allegation stemmed from social media mischief, explaining that Dabiri-Erewa’s emojis were directed at an individual who insulted her, not at any ethnic group.

The statement also questioned Steve Osuji’s credibility, recalling his one-year suspension by the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) in July 2025 over unethical conduct at its Biennial National Convention—a move the Guild described as punishment for unprofessional behaviour and compromise of journalistic integrity.

Citing examples of Dabiri-Erewa’s interventions on behalf of Nigerians of Igbo origin—including assistance to traders in Ghana, evacuation of South East students during the Sudan crisis, and rescue of trafficked girls (163 of whom were from the South East) from Ghana—the group said her record proves her detribalised nature.

“It is ironic that a journalist suspended by his own peers for unethical practice now assumes the role of moral arbiter,” the statement said.

The coordinators stressed that accountability in public discourse must be rooted in truth, adding:
“Abike Dabiri-Erewa owes no one a resignation over baseless accusations. What she deserves is recognition for her consistency in protecting Nigerians—Igbo, Yoruba, Hausa, or otherwise—wherever they may be in the world.”

The group urged the public to disregard Osuji’s comments, noting that Dabiri-Erewa’s decades of service as a trailblazing broadcaster, respected legislator, and pioneer NiDCOM chair remain a testament to her integrity and detribalised leadership.