By Newspot Nigeria News Desk
The International Peace Ambassadors Forum (IPAF) has strongly criticised what it described as a media attack by the Anambra State Government against Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, following official statements questioning a chieftaincy title recently conferred on her.
In a press statement issued by its Executive Council, the global peace advocacy body expressed concern over public remarks attributed to the Anambra State Government, which reportedly described the chieftaincy title as “fake” or “illegal” and warned Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu against using it.
According to the Forum, such comments amount to an unnecessary and disrespectful public confrontation involving a senior federal official and internationally recognised diplomat, and risk undermining long-standing cultural institutions within the state.
“The tone and substance of these statements are deeply troubling,” the group said, noting that public denunciations of this nature could fuel division and erode respect for traditional and diplomatic institutions.
The Forum described Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu as a respected public servant whose career in diplomacy and public engagement reflects a long-standing commitment to peace, dialogue, and national unity. It also referenced her status as the widow of the late Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu, describing her as a symbolic figure whose public life continues to attract national and international attention.
IPAF warned that escalating verbal confrontations between state authorities and federal officeholders could strain intergovernmental relations and distract from governance priorities. It further cautioned that persistent public disputes of this nature could attract negative international attention and affect broader peace-building partnerships involving Nigeria.
The organisation called on the Anambra State Government to reconsider its approach, urging restraint, dialogue, and mutual respect. It appealed for a public clarification or retraction of statements deemed inflammatory and encouraged constructive engagement rather than public exchanges that could deepen political or cultural tensions.
“Peace demands respect, and dialogue remains the most responsible path forward,” the statement concluded.
The International Peace Ambassadors Forum reaffirmed its commitment to promoting harmony, peaceful coexistence, and respectful engagement among institutions and leaders at all levels, both within Nigeria and globally.
Newspot Nigeria will continue to monitor developments surrounding this matter and provide updates as they unfold.
