The Judaism Fellowship Initiative (JFI), the umbrella body of Nigeria’s Jewish community, has disassociated itself from the Eastern Judaism and Jewish Communities group operating in the South-East.
JFI President, Chief Arthur-Regis Odidika, made the clarification on Monday in Awka while reacting to a publication titled “Judaism Adherents in South-East Plead with Tinubu to Release Kanu, Pray for His Health.” The report had stated that the group organised a prayer session in Abia and called on President Bola Tinubu to release the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
Odidika, who also serves as Vice-President of the Commonwealth Jewish Council, Africa (Nigeria), stressed that JFI was not connected to the group or its activities. He explained that while expressions of concern for individuals, including Kanu, were not out of place, Judaism as a faith should not be mixed with political, social, or economic causes.
“Even though Mazi Nnamdi Kanu professes the Jewish faith, the Judaism Fellowship Initiative of Nigeria is not associated with any separatist movement,” Odidika said.
He also dismissed claims about the existence of a so-called Biafra National Rabbi, noting that JFI is a duly registered Incorporated Trustee with the Corporate Affairs Commission and does not recognise any of the individuals mentioned as leaders of the Eastern Judaism group.
“Judaism in Nigeria has nothing to do with IPOB or any political agitation. Separatist pressure is not the agenda or pursuit of the Judaic faith in Nigeria. We want to state clearly that JFI has no relationship or affiliation with these individuals, though we have no authority to stop their activities,” he added.
Odidika reaffirmed JFI’s commitment to peace, mutual understanding, and harmonious coexistence among Nigeria’s diverse regions and religions.
He also announced that Mr. Clive Lawton, Head of the Jewish Communities of the Commonwealth Nations, is expected to visit Nigeria in November. According to him, the visit would mark a new chapter in the growth of Judaism in the country.
“I believe the visit will usher in unprecedented light and open various opportunities for Jewish economic, social, and cultural advancement in Nigeria,” Odidika said.