The leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo has praised the Igbo community’s decision to abstain from yesterday’s nationwide protests, attributing their unity and restraint to the recent infrastructural advancements in the Southeast and a shift in federal government perceptions.
In a press statement signed by Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Secretary General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the group expressed deep gratitude to Igbos both at home and abroad for their adherence to the boycott of the protests.
The organization noted the significant progress under Senator Dave Umahi, the Minister of Works, particularly the ongoing transformation of the Federal Expressway in the Southeast.
Ohanaeze also called for the immediate release of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, and advocated for the creation of an additional state within the Southeast to address historical marginalization.
The statement indicated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has come to recognize that the Southeast and Ndigbo are not adversaries.
Ohanaeze urged the President to reciprocate by facilitating Kanu’s release and initiating more development projects for the region.
Part of the statement read: “We had urged Igbos at home and in the diaspora to boycott the protests based on historical sad experiences, fear of loss of lives and properties, ongoing infrastructural projects in the Southeast led by Senator Dave Umahi, and the demand for the release of Nnamdi Kanu.
“The compliance of the Southeast with the directive to abstain from the protests reflects a renewed sense of unity and determination among Ndigbo.
“We remain open to dialogue and collaboration with the federal government for the advancement of our nation.
“We are pleased to note that the Igbos demonstrated unique resilience, boldness, firmness, and willpower to defy intimidation and manipulation by external detractors.
“We appreciate all political leaders, especially Senator Dave Umahi, for their efforts to ensure neutrality in the protests.”
