By Odunewu Segun
Nnamdi Kanu’s led Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) is on a collision path with governors in the Southeast as well as the apex socio-political group in the region, Ohanaeze Ndigbo who have finally decided to ban activities of the group in the region.
Rising from a meeting on Friday, September 15, attended by Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi; Dave Umahi, Okezie Ikpeazu, Willie Obiano, deputy governor of Imo state, Eze Madumere, Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s President- Chief Nnia Nwodo, Deputy Senate President-Ike Ekweremadu as well the Gen Adamu Abubakar, GOC 82 Div, Enugu arrived at the decision to ban activities of members IPOB led by Nnmandi Kanu.
In a statement released after the meeting, the governors said all activities of IPOB are hereby proscribed, advising all governors from the east to ensure compliance in their respective states.
The governors appealed to President Buhari to withdraw troops from the Southeast. They also reinforced their desire for the restructuring of the country after buttressing their commitment to a united and indivisible Nigeria
They also reaffirmed their commitment to a united and indivisible Nigeria, but pointed out the need for restructuring of Nigeria where all national issues will be discussed and amicably settled to achieve justice and fairness to every Nigerian.
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While reiterating their position that the November 18, 2017 governorship election in Anambra must hold, the group appeal to President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, President Muhammad’s Buhari GCFR to withdraw the military in the southeast zone.
“Southeast governors have taken concrete steps to protect lives and properties of indigenes and non-indigenes in the south east. We are in touch with the Northern governors’ forum they have assured us of the safety of all our people living in the north and we have also planned to exchange of visits between the Governors and to re-enforce the confidence of Nigerians in this respect.”
The governors and other stakeholders in the statement also advised all residents of the Southeast to go about their normal businesses as government of each state is committed to protecting everybody.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian military had categorized the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) as a terrorist group.
Nnamdi Kanu, on his part, petitioned the European Union over the ongoing military operation in southeast region of Nigeria.