Arise TV Spotlight: Reuben Abati and Ojy Okpe Dispute Igbo Land Sale Claims
On November 22, 2024, a heated exchange occurred between Arise TV anchors Reuben Abati and Ojy Okpe during “The Morning Show.”
The disagreement centered on Abati’s remarks about the Igbo community’s practices regarding land sales.
Abati referenced a statement by the late Chief TOS Benson, former Minister of Information, who, despite being married to an Igbo woman, was reportedly told by his in-laws that they do not sell land to outsiders.
Abati used this anecdote to highlight what he perceived as an irony in Nigeria’s unity, noting that while Igbos are industrious and thrive across the country, they are reluctant to sell land to non-Igbos, even those married into their families.
Okpe challenged Abati’s perspective, prompting a defensive response from him. Abati insisted that he had been clear and specific in his statements and dismissed Okpe’s challenge, stating, “Nobody should tell me any nonsense.”
The exchange sparked discussions on social media, with some supporting Abati’s viewpoint and others criticizing him for generalizing about the Igbo community.
The incident underscores the sensitivity surrounding ethnic and cultural issues in Nigeria.