The Ohanaeze Ndigbo has directed all Igbo in Nigeria not to participate in the proposed nationwide protest by some groups of people against President Bola Tinubu.
The apex Igbo body, in a statement issued by its Secretary General, Okechukwu Isiguzoro on Tuesday, said it had instructed Igbo both at home and in the diaspora to abstain from participating in the nationwide protests set to commence from August 1st to 10th, 2024.
The group said Igbo should not join the strike because the prevailing security challenges in the Southeast region posed insurmountable obstacles to the safe conduct of protests and riots.
“In recognition of this reality, any nationwide protest scheduled within the Southeast is hereby revoked, with a clear directive that Igbo will not partake. Enforcing such protests risks exacerbating the existing security dilemmas in the Southeast, creating opportunities for criminal elements and external Igbo detractors to exploit the situation and instigate further chaos. Thus, it is in the best interest of all concerned parties to refrain from organizing any protests within the region,” it said.
Ohanaeze also said the fear of Igbo once again being perceived as sacrificial lambs in the forthcoming nationwide protests is a legitimate concern why they should join the protest.
“In this regard, Ohanaeze Ndigbo calls upon Igbo residents in the 19 northern states and southwest regions to boycott the looming protests for their own safety and security.
“Demonstrating restraint and prudence by avoiding involvement in the protests is imperative to safeguard their well-being during this period. It is urged that business activities remain suspended in these regions as a precautionary measure,” the body stated.
The group reiterated that the foremost priority for the Southeast region is the release of Nnamdi Kanu, underscoring the organization’s unwavering commitment to this cause over engaging in nationwide protests.
“Emphasizing that Ndigbo will not partake in any protests aimed at President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Ohanaeze Ndigbo seeks to convey a clear message to President Tinubu in an anticipation of a reciprocation of his goodwill towards the Igbo people, particularly in the form of Nnamdi Kanu’s release, which is of paramount importance.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo extends a stern warning to non-Igbo enforcers of the nationwide protests, making it unequivocally clear that the Southeast will not be partaking in the upcoming demonstrations. The organization pledges its full support to the Southeast Governors in ensuring robust security arrangements throughout the protest timeline, urging Igbos in the region to resume their regular business activities during August 2024.
“In conclusion, Ohanaeze Ndigbo reiterates its commitment to prioritizing the safety and well-being of the Igbo people, advocating peace and prudence as the optimal means to safeguard the interests of the Southeast region,” the group stated.
Post a Comment