Mr. Ejike Ofoegbu Experience, a blogger who claims to be the publisher of Igbo Times Magazine and INews, has apologised for releasing a series of news articles disparaging Anambra State Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo and his son, Ozonna.
The blogger had written four news pieces after a video of Ozonna went viral, showing him dancing to a tune criticising some Nigerian politicians, including his father.
Ofoegbu alleged in one of the stories that Governor Soludo had disowned his son years ago and was no longer responsible for his behaviour.
In another article, he claimed Ozonna gave an interview in which he stated that he had first shunned his father, citing many reasons.
However, in a retraction and apology video put on his Facebook, Ofoegbu appealed for forgiveness, acknowledging that the stories were fake and that none of the individuals mentioned agreed to an interview.
He admitted that he made up the stories in the hopes that they would go viral, enhancing the popularity of his blogs and earning money.
He stated, “I wish to offer my deepest and most sincere apology to Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, the Executive Governor of Anambra State, his family, and the general public.”
“I fully accept that the stories I wrote about Governor Soludo and his son were entirely fraudulent, manufactured, and untrue. They did not originate with Governor Soludo, his son, his family, or any official representative.
They were not based on confirmed facts or trustworthy sources, and they should never have been reported as news.”
He went on to say, “I also apologise to the people of Anambra State, readers of Igbo Times Magazine and INews, and anyone who saw or shared these false publications.” I am determined to remedy this error and ensure that such an incidence does not occur again.”
Some of the headlines he published said, “Breaking News: I will arrest anyone who calls Ozo my son.” He isn’t my son. I disowned him years ago, and he is no longer a Soludo family member.”
Another read: “Just In: I Don’t Take My Father’s Advice.” He was a drunk who beat my mother when I was little. His treatment of my mother caused me to decide never to take advice from him — ‘Soludo’s Son’ Speaks Out.”
Other false headlines included: “Breaking News: I ordered Ozo from Temu. He is not my son; he was created in China. Even at the hospital when he was delivered, I told the doctor, ‘I hope you didn’t accidentally exchange my real kid.’ “Ozo is from Temu,” Soludo joked with reporters. Another read: “Breaking News: They should hold a drinking match between my father and Wike.
I simply want to see something. I’m willing to stake my life that my father will win. People do not grasp his drinking capacity.” — Ozo.
It is unclear whether Ofoegbu has been apprehended by security personnel, as the apologetic message was accompanied by a video in which he appeared visibly scared while apologising for his acts.