Abeokuta, Nigeria – Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has, for the first time, responded to rumors about his alleged Igbo paternity, dismissing the claims as laughable. The former President made the remarks on Thursday during a meeting with the leadership of the Ndigbo Amaka Progressive Market Association, a coalition of major market leaders in Lagos State, at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Rumors have circulated in the past suggesting that Obasanjo was born to an Igbo father from Anambra State. However, the former President, known for his Yoruba heritage, has rarely addressed the speculation. During the meeting, he briefly commented on the matter, saying, “It just makes me laugh.”

The meeting also focused on the proposed establishment of the Owerri Central Market, which is intended to be a major hub for trade and commerce in Nigeria. Obasanjo expressed his support for the project, noting that the concept of a central market in Owerri has been in discussion since the creation of Imo State. He expressed optimism that this time, the project would come to fruition, stating, “It is going to be big, the first of its kind.”

Obasanjo also emphasized his belief in the unity of Nigeria, stating that no Nigerian should be driven away from any part of the country. “We own this country together,” he said, highlighting the collective effort of all ethnic groups in maintaining national unity. He referenced the Nigerian Civil War, stating, “Having ensured that the Yorubas, Igbos, and Hausas all came together to fight the war of unity in Nigeria, and not to fight Igbos to go, but to come, if anybody says to me that somebody should leave any place, he will be the one to leave.”

The group’s spokesperson, Chief Emeka Emmanuel, who read a letter signed by Chinedu Ukatu and Iwuchukwu Ezenwafor, outlined the vision for the Owerri Central Market as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. He assured the group’s commitment to contributing to the growth of both the market and the nation. Emmanuel also sought Obasanjo’s assistance in helping their members secure loans to purchase shops and spaces at the new market.

Obasanjo expressed his willingness to support the project and lead its marketing efforts, highlighting the importance of such initiatives in boosting economic development and providing opportunities for entrepreneurs.

The meeting concluded with mutual pledges of cooperation aimed at making the Owerri Central Market a reality, reflecting the broader goal of fostering national unity and economic growth.