Trump’s Warning Sparks Charles Awuzie’s Demand For Onanuga And Bashir Ahmad To Apologise To Igbos, Nigerians

 

A fresh wave of national debate has been triggered following an open demand by South Africa-based Nigerian cybersecurity expert, Charles Awuzie, who has called on presidential aide Bayo Onanuga and former presidential media aide Bashir Ahmad to publicly apologise to Igbos and Nigerians. His call comes in the wake of heightened discussions surrounding United States President Donald Trump’s recent threat directed at Nigeria, a development that has reignited conversations about patriotism, unity, and the dangers of divisive rhetoric.

Awuzie, who made the statement on his verified Facebook page on Monday, criticised both Onanuga and Ahmad for what he described as “past remarks that fueled ethnic and religious division.” He said their earlier comments had significantly hurt the collective spirit of Nigerians striving for unity, and that their new tone of nationalism was not enough without an honest apology for the pain caused by their previous utterances.

The tech entrepreneur reminded the public of a period when Onanuga asserted that Igbo residents in Lagos were not sufficiently “Lagos enough” to take part in the city’s political affairs. According to him, such a statement alienated many Nigerians from the South East who have contributed immensely to the development of Lagos and have every right to participate in its democratic process. Awuzie also referred to an old declaration by Bashir Ahmad, where he reportedly expressed pride in being called an “Islamic extremist.”

While acknowledging that both men are now preaching unity in light of Trump’s comments about Nigeria, Awuzie insisted that a sincere apology is the only way to demonstrate genuine transformation. He said true nationalism must begin with acknowledging past wrongs and working toward healing the wounds caused by ethnic and religious intolerance.

He expressed that Nigeria’s unity is often compromised by those who profit from division. “Our leaders have historically benefited from disunity,” Awuzie wrote. “They create tension along tribal and religious lines while preaching peace when their interests are threatened. This hypocrisy has cost us dearly as a nation.”

The cybersecurity expert further noted that Trump’s threat should serve as a critical moment of reflection for Nigerian leaders and citizens alike. He warned that continued corruption, political manipulation, and ethnic bias could make Nigeria more vulnerable to external influence. According to him, if foreign powers were to take advantage of Nigeria’s divisions, the result could be devastating for national stability.

“Bayo now knows that if Trump invades Nigeria and things get out of hand, tribalism will melt away and only true nationalism will save us. Bashir is now realising that extremism of any kind is evil against true nationalism,” Awuzie stated.

He maintained that both aides must publicly take responsibility for their words, explaining that their positions in government come with moral obligations to foster inclusivity and respect for all Nigerians. Awuzie suggested that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu should encourage Onanuga, who currently works for the presidency, to offer an apology to the Igbo community and other Nigerians who felt slighted by his earlier remarks.

Awuzie described Onanuga’s past statements as “deeply hurtful,” adding that many Nigerians who invested their time and resources in Lagos felt betrayed by such rhetoric. He said the city has always symbolised opportunity and national integration, making divisive comments particularly damaging to its image as a melting pot of cultures.

He also called on Bashir Ahmad to renounce his previous statements that glorified extremism. According to Awuzie, a public apology would demonstrate personal growth and help promote a message of tolerance, especially among young Nigerians who look up to public figures for guidance.

Addressing the broader context, Awuzie said that the current political climate calls for reflection rather than hostility. He urged Nigerians to put aside their differences, unite behind shared national values, and avoid being manipulated by politicians who thrive on division.

He concluded his message with a passionate appeal for peace, fairness, and equity as the country moves closer to the 2027 general elections. “The world is watching how we handle our internal challenges,” Awuzie said. “If we cannot come together as one people, others will continue to see us as weak and divided.”

Awuzie’s remarks have since stirred mixed reactions online, with many Nigerians supporting his stance and others questioning the sincerity of his call. Yet his message resonates deeply at a time when the country faces both internal and external pressures. His insistence on accountability and unity serves as a reminder that reconciliation begins not with slogans or speeches but with humility and truth.