Ohanaeze Ndigbo has directed the Igbo community across the country to refrain from participating in ongoing protests against hardship.
This was issued in a statement signed by Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, he said: “I write as your leader at this critical period in our Country, Nigeria. Events in Nigeria today are no doubt very disturbing. The economy has turned very bad, a sceptre of frustration is everywhere.
Chief Iwuanyanwu acknowledged the distressing state of the Nigerian economy, expressing concern over widespread frustration among the populace. He stressed on the marginalization of the Southeast region, citing disparities in political representation and economic opportunities as significant grievances.
“We are the only geopolitical zone that has only five (5) states. This situation has cost us billions of financial losses. It has also cost us losses in both political appointments and legislative representations,” Chief Iwuanyanwu stated.
“Youths all over the world are very restive and sensitive to any issue affecting their future. In Nigeria, Igbo youths and youths from other tribes at various times expressed their dissatisfaction with events in the Country. It is clear to us that when youths from other tribes of the country are involved they are reprimanded and forgiven; but when the Igbo youths are involved they are arrested, incarcerated and even charged for serious offences.
For example, the arrest and detention of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu generated a lot of problems for the Igbos. Many Igbos, including Governors, members of the National Assembly, Religious leaders, Traditional Rulers, and Business leaders pleaded with Mr. President for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu but without success. Also, there are many Igbo Youths detained in various correctional Centres for flimsy excuses.
For example, there is a case of Eze Fredrick Nwajiagu who has been in detention in Lagos without any justifiable reason.”
Chief Iwuanyanwu emphasised the need for caution, particularly among Igbo youth. He pointed out instances where Igbo youths faced disproportionate treatment, including arrests and incarceration for expressing dissatisfaction with the government.
“It is important to remind all Igbos that the 2023 presidential electoral matter has reached the Nigerian Supreme Court where they declared President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR the winner.
We don’t have any personal issues against him. As a Governor of Lagos State, he was good and charitable to Igbos. We have therefore decided to support him. We expect him also to reciprocate this gesture by giving us what is our due in the federation. We are not asking for another person’s position.
“The economic crisis in Nigeria is very unfortunate. Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide intends to convene a meeting of Igbo top economists and experts in diverse fields to strategize on how to overcome the hardships. We will also proffer advice to President Tinubu on the economy.
It is important to note that the best thing for us as Igbos is to rally round President Tinubu and to do what we can to enable him complete his tenure. Igbos are opposed to military rule. We prefer a democratic government where we can express our views”.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo urged the Ndigbos to rally behind President Tinubu and offered to provide economic advice and support to his administration.
