Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, has clarified that President Bola Tinubu is not viewed as an enemy by the Igbo community. This stance is cited as the reason why Southeast states chose not to participate in the proposed nationwide hunger protests across Nigeria.
In a press statement released on Thursday by Ohanaeze’s factional Secretary-General, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, the organization emphasized that the decision by the Southeast populace to abstain should serve as a compelling message to President Bola Tinubu, urging him to heed the calls of leaders and other Nigerians for the release of Nnamdi Kanu from detention.
Expressing gratitude to Igbos within and outside Nigeria for their unwavering support in boycotting the protests, Ohanaeze highlighted the Southeast’s display of unity and resilience in resisting external influences aimed at exploiting Igbo people for political gains.
The compliance of the Southeast with the protest boycott directive indicates a newfound spirit of unity and determination among Ndigbo to combat systematic manipulation and exploitation orchestrated by certain self-serving elements and privileged individuals. This marks a significant milestone in the perseverance, bravery, and determination of the Igbo community to assert their rights and safeguard their interests.
Pointing to infrastructural developments like the transformation of the Federal Expressway in the region, Ohanaeze also called for immediate actions such as Nnamdi Kanu’s release and the creation of an additional state in the Southeast to address long-standing marginalization and neglect.
It was mentioned that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has recognized that the Southeast and Ndigbo are not adversaries, with a plea for him to reciprocate this realization by releasing Nnamdi Kanu and launching more impactful projects for the region. Emphasizing the Southeast’s willingness to engage in dialogue and collaborate with the federal government for national progress, Ohanaeze encouraged all Igbo individuals to remain steadfast and united against any efforts to undermine their cohesion and advancement.