The current unrest plaguing Nigeria has instilled a sense of unease among the populace, with reports indicating a significant number of Nigerian politicians fleeing the country for shelter overseas. The abrupt exodus of top government officials, political elites, and prominent business figures has triggered widespread apprehension, particularly among the Igbo residents in the North and Southwest states.
In response to these concerning developments, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, is proud to extend its appreciation to the Minister of State for Defence, Hon. Bello Matawalle, and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, for their unwavering dedication in curbing the politically motivated nationwide protests set to commence from August 1st to 10th, 2024. Ohanaeze had previously called upon Igbo residents in the Northern and Southwestern states to abstain from participating in the forthcoming protests, aligning with our core principles of peace and advocating for calm amidst turbulent times.
Rest assured, both Ndigbo at home and in the diaspora, that stringent security measures will be enforced by the Ministry of State for Defence and the Office of the National Security Adviser to safeguard against any form of molestation, intimidation, or harm to Igbo lives and properties in the North and Southwest regions. The resolute decision of Igbo traders and residents to boycott the planned nationwide protests is a testament to our unwavering commitment to peaceful coexistence and unity.
We implore the proponents of the August 1st to 10th, 2024 protests to explore avenues for dialogue with President Tinubu to address their grievances peacefully and amicably, without resorting to violence or causing casualties. We are cognizant of the presence of foreign mercenaries in league with unpatriotic elements, scheming to incite chaos in Nigeria and using the Igbo people as pawns in their destructive pursuits. However, the collective decision of Igbo residents to distance themselves from the protests has left the instigators perturbed, prompting concerns that they may resort to inciting violence against the Igbo populace in a bid to provoke their involvement.
MAZI OKECHUKWU ISIGUZORO, the Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, underscores that the withdrawal of Igbo residents from the protests disrupts the sinister plans of the sponsors, rendering their malevolent intentions unattainable. Therefore, we urge the Presidency, through the Minister of State for Defence, Hon. Bello Matawalle, and the Office of the National Security Adviser, to intensify efforts in protecting Igbo residents in the North and Southwest from any form of harassment or intimidation. Importantly, we affirm that there will be no protests in the Southeast, as we entrust Igbo youths with directives to thwart any attempts to incite unrest within the region.
In solidarity, we uphold the values of peace, unity, and non-violence, demonstrating our unwavering resolve to foster a harmonious and prosperous nation.
Signed,
MAZI OKECHUKWU ISIGUZORO
Secretary-General
OHANAEZE NDIGBO
