After careful consideration and evaluation of recent events, Ohanaeze Ndigbo assumes full responsibility for the non-release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). However, Ohanaeze Ndigbo believes that the blame should be shared amongst various stakeholders, including political elites especially the Southeast Governors and Senators, traditional authorities, and the clergy.
Secretary General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, raises concerns about the actions of Southeast Governors, who displayed a lack of understanding by placing unwarranted reliance on President Tinubu for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, without taking the necessary steps to address the underlying issues. Isiguzoro notes that Ndigbo had witnessed numerous claims from governors regarding their visits to President Tinubu and the expected release of Kanu, only to be disappointed with the outcome. Similarly, efforts by Southeast Senators to intervene in Kanu’s release in the Senate were unsuccessful due to the perceived lack of commitment from the governors.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo emphasizes that the only viable solution for the release of Nnamdi Kanu lies in engaging in confidential dialogues with all non-state actors and Biafran agitators. The federal government expects Ndigbo to engage in constructive dialogue, finding common ground and establishing a unified agenda before approaching the government with certified conditions for Kanu’s release. Ndigbo also witnessed the unity of purpose among Oduduwa and Yoruba leadership in securing the release of Yoruba Activist, Sunday Igboho. It is concerning to Ohanaeze Ndigbo that certain Igbo elders continue seeking audiences with Tinubu, despite publicly denouncing his inauguration and secretly supporting his removal at the Supreme Court.
In light of these circumstances, Ohanaeze Ndigbo calls on Southeast Governors to convene a dialogue meeting with Biafra agitators, traditional rulers, the College of Igbo Bishops, and Ohanaeze Ndigbo. This inclusive gathering is essential for resolving the issues at hand. Without such a meeting, genuine pathways to peace in the Southeast may continue to elude us. The Southeast political elites must establish new rallying points in the absence of esteemed leaders like Alex Ekweme, Dim Odumegwu Ojukwu, or Pa Mbazulike Amaechi. Respected figures like Ochiagha Ebitu Ukiwe and Archbishop Obinna should assume leadership roles, as they are the individuals who can command the respect of the Biafra agitators and others.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo appeals to the Igbo elders seeking an audience with Tinubu, mediated by the Oba of Lagos, to redirect their efforts toward resolving issues within the Southeast. It is crucial to abandon gestures of “charity begins from abroad” and direct focus towards cleaning up the mess in the East. Ohanaeze Ndigbo and the Governors must engage in meaningful dialogue with our children from IPOB and other Biafra agitators before seeking President Tinubu’s intervention for the release of Nnamdi Kanu. Until this crucial meeting takes place, Ohanaeze Ndigbo acknowledges responsibility for past mistakes and urges Ndigbo to do what is necessary to move forward.
