Human rights lawyer Chief Malcolm Emokiniovo Omirhobo has condemned Primate Ayodele for making “reckless, hateful, and constitutionally ignorant” remarks targeting the Igbo ethnic group.

In a viral video, the cleric claimed that the Igbo are “desperate for power” and that a supposed “curse” prevents them from producing a Nigerian president. He further stated that the Igbo are “the problem of Nigeria,” absolving other ethnic groups of responsibility for national challenges.

Omirhobo, in a statement on Sunday, described these comments as unacceptable for a religious leader, who should promote unity and national cohesion. He stressed that Nigeria is a constitutional democracy, governed by law—not by “spiritual monarchy guided by the personal prophecies of any individual.”

Citing sections of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), Omirhobo noted that the law guarantees equality for all citizens (Section 17), forbids ethnic discrimination (Section 42), and affirms that sovereignty belongs to the people (Section 14(2)(a)). He emphasized that leadership is determined by democratic processes and the will of the electorate, not curses or prophetic declarations.

Calling Ayodele’s statements “hate speech,” Omirhobo warned that branding an entire ethnic group as cursed or problematic is “irresponsible and dangerous,” insulting millions of Igbo citizens who contribute significantly to Nigeria’s development.

He further denounced the comments as “unbiblical, unconstitutional, incendiary, and morally reprehensible,” and insisted that the cleric owes an unreserved apology to the Igbo community and the nation.

Omirhobo cautioned religious leaders against using their platforms for political manipulation or ethnic stigmatisation, reiterating that Nigeria belongs to all its ethnic groups.

“The future of Nigeria depends on justice, inclusiveness, and respect for the dignity of every citizen—nothing less,” he concluded.