Tension in Ethiopia as Igbo Community Members Clash Over Unclear Dispute

 

A recent conflict among members of the Igbo community in Ethiopia has sparked concern, following an incident that led to the arrest of seven individuals. The situation, which remains shrouded in uncertainty, has raised questions about the treatment of Nigerian expatriates and the underlying cause of the dispute.

The Incident

According to Mr. Eze, a member of the Igbo community who spoke to us, the event occurred on February 14, 2025, during what was meant to be a peaceful meeting. The gathering, held at a Nigerian-owned restaurant in Ethiopia, was intended to foster dialogue on improving their stay in the country. However, tensions escalated when the restaurant owner unexpectedly called the police, leading to the arrest of seven individuals.

“The meeting was peaceful,” Mr. Eze stated. “We were discussing how to make things better for our people in Ethiopia, only for the restaurant owner to involve the police. Now, seven of our brothers are in custody, and they have been denied bail.”

Unanswered Questions and Rising Concerns

The reasons behind the restaurant owner's decision to call the authorities remain unclear. Additionally, the nature of the charges placed against the detained individuals has not been fully disclosed, further fueling speculation. Some members of the Igbo community believe there may be deeper issues at play, possibly involving internal disagreements or external influences.

Community leaders and Nigerian diplomatic representatives in Ethiopia are now being urged to intervene and ensure that justice prevails. The arrest and denial of bail have left many Nigerians in Ethiopia feeling uneasy, as they worry about the broader implications for their safety and rights in the country.

Calls for Resolution

As the situation unfolds, the Igbo community in Ethiopia is calling for transparency and fairness in handling the case. Many are seeking diplomatic engagement between Nigerian and Ethiopian authorities to address the matter without further escalation.

For now, the detained individuals remain in custody, with no clear indication of when they might be released. The Nigerian diaspora in Ethiopia and beyond continues to watch closely, hoping for a peaceful resolution that upholds justice and unity among the Igbo people.