Isaac Fayose Apology to Igbos follows backlash over ‘cash and carry’ remarks, as he retracts comments and urges unity

Isaac Fayose, businessman and younger brother of former Ekiti State governor Ayo Fayose, publicly retracted controversial remarks about the Igbo community on Wednesday, 19 February 2026, in a video shared on Instagram, describing his earlier statement as wrong and expressing regret.

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In the video message, Isaac Fayose admitted that referring to Igbos as “cash and carry” was inappropriate and a sweeping generalisation.

Isaac Fayose said the comment did not reflect the respect he holds for Nigeria’s diverse ethnic communities and confirmed he was withdrawing it in full.

The controversy stemmed from Isaac Fayose’s comparison of how different regions advocate for detained leaders. Isaac Fayose had argued that Yoruba activists successfully pressed for the release of Sunday Igboho, while supporters of Nnamdi Kanu had not demonstrated the same level of coordination.

Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, remains in custody despite sustained appeals for his release.

Isaac Fayose’s remarks prompted criticism from members of the Igbo community who objected to the characterisation.

In his apology, Isaac Fayose commended HRH Ambassador Dr Lawrence Agubuzo, the Igwe of Ezema Olo, for urging President Bola Tinubu to ensure fairness in handling separatist cases.

Isaac Fayose described the traditional ruler’s intervention as courageous and balanced.

Isaac Fayose quoted the monarch’s position that if Sunday Igboho is free, similar consideration should be extended to Nnamdi Kanu in the interest of equity and peace.

Isaac Fayose said such calls reinforce the need for dialogue rather than division.

Reflecting on the timing of the Isaac Fayose Apology to Igbos, the businessman noted that Christians had begun Lent while Muslims commenced Ramadan on the same day.

Isaac Fayose described the coincidence as a powerful reminder of shared values and the urgent need for national unity.

Public reaction to the apology was largely positive, with several social media users praising Isaac Fayose for acknowledging his mistake.