Pan-Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has commended the Igbo people worldwide for their steadfast support and adherence to the decision to abstain from the recent nationwide protests.”
In a statement on Thursday by its Secretary-General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Ohanaeze said, “We, the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, wish to express our profound gratitude to all Igbos at home and in the diaspora for their unwavering commitment to the decision to boycott the nationwide protests.
“The South East region has shown remarkable unity and remarkable unity and resilience in standing against external pressures and manipulations aimed at using the Igbo as sacrificial lambs for selfish political agenda.
“The South-East’s total compliance with the directive to abstain from the protests is a testament to the newfound sense of unity and determination among Ndigbo to put an end to the systematic manipulation and exploitation by certain unpatriotic elements and privileged elite.”
The organisation said this marks a new chapter in “Igbo perseverance, nerve, and resolve to assert our rights and protect our interests.”
Ohanaeze also acknowledged the infrastructural strides being made in the South-East under the leadership of, the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi.
“The transformation of the Federal Expressway in the region is a clear demonstration of the commitment to development and progress. We also call for the immediate release of Nnamdi Kanu and the creation of an additional state for the South East to address the longstanding marginalisation and neglect of the region.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has now realised that the South-East and Ndigbo are not his enemies, and we urge him to reciprocate this gesture by releasing Nnamdi Kanu and initiating more viable projects for the South-East.
“The South-East remains open to dialogue and cooperation with the Federal Government for the overall development and prosperity of the nation.”
Ohanaeze urged Igbo people to remain steadfast and resolute in the face of any pressure.
“Let us continue to stand together in solidarity and work towards a brighter future for our people and our nation,” he added.
Widespread protests, under the banner of #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria, have swept across Nigeria, with citizens expressing outrage over the nation’s deepening economic crisis.
Although most demonstrations have been peaceful, isolated incidents of violence have occurred in several areas.