Ohanaeze apologizes, calls for renewed peace, as IPOB kill soldiers in Abia on Biafra Heroes Day

Ohanaeze Ndigbo has apologized to Ndigbo and Biafra agitators after mayhem that culminated in the killing of Nigerian soldiers in observance of Biafra National Heroes Day on May 30, 2024.

The Secretary General of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, in a statement declared: “We humbly seek forgiveness and convey our heartfelt plea for peace and unity, acknowledging the somber tumult that has beset our region in recent times.”

The Secretary General decried that over the past decade, Ndigbo have endured a wave of unimaginable violence, civil disobedience, and a profound loss of public trust arising from the Southeast Governors’ administration.

According to him, “A crisis of confidence in constituted authorities has paved the way for non-state actors and Biafra agitators to wield significant influence, resulting in adverse repercussions such as economic decline and the disruption of academic activities, including the closure of government institutions through prolonged Sit-At-Home campaigns.

“This lamentable reality compels us to unite in a concerted effort to address these pressing challenges and restore dignity and stability to our cherished Southeast.

As we reflect upon the historic significance of this day, recalling Dim Chukwuemeka Ojukwu’s stirring call to solidarity during the Ahiaria Declaration, rallying Igbos to fend off external aggression and annihilation, we pay homage to the valor and spirit of our forebears.

“Today, we are confronted with a stark reality where the cosmetic measures employed by the Southeast Governors have proved inadequate in quelling the rising insecurity within our region.”

Accordingly, “OHANAEZE NDIGBO, with a sense of urgency, condemns the Southeast Governors for their notable lack of preparedness, historical perspective, and genuine patriotism in addressing the security challenges faced by our people.”

The statement read in full:

Igbo stakeholders in Biafra Land South East Nigeria

“MAY 30TH BIAFRA DAY: A HUMBLE APOLOGY & A CALL FOR RENEWED PEACE”

In observance of BIAFRA NATIONAL HEROES DAY on May 30th, 2024, OHANAEZE NDIGBO extends a sincere, open-hearted apology to Ndigbo and Biafra agitators. We humbly seek forgiveness and convey our heartfelt plea for peace and unity, acknowledging the somber tumult that has beset our region in recent times.

Over the past decade, Ndigbo have endured a wave of unimaginable violence, civil disobedience, and a profound loss of public trust arising from the Southeast Governors’ administration. A crisis of confidence in constituted authorities has paved the way for non-state actors and Biafra agitators to wield significant influence, resulting in adverse repercussions such as economic decline and the disruption of academic activities, including the closure of government institutions through prolonged Sit-At-Home campaigns. This lamentable reality compels us to unite in a concerted effort to address these pressing challenges and restore dignity and stability to our cherished Southeast.

As we reflect upon the historic significance of this day, recalling Dim Chukwuemeka Ojukwu’s stirring call to solidarity during the Ahiaria Declaration, rallying Igbos to fend off external aggression and annihilation, we pay homage to the valor and spirit of our forebears. Today, we are confronted with a stark reality where the cosmetic measures employed by the Southeast Governors have proved inadequate in quelling the rising insecurity within our region.

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OHANAEZE NDIGBO, with a sense of urgency, condemns the Southeast Governors for their notable lack of preparedness, historical perspective, and genuine patriotism in addressing the security challenges faced by our people. In acknowledging past missteps, we take full responsibility for the leadership missteps within the Southeast and concede to having strayed from the noble aims and values set forth by our founding leaders in 1976.

In a spirit of humility and sincere reflection, OHANAEZE NDIGBO extends an unequivocal and heartfelt apology to Ndigbo, particularly to the Biafra agitators, seeking their forgiveness for a decade of leadership disillusionment and our inability to secure the release of Nnamdi Kanu. This expression of contrition symbolizes a renewed commitment to fostering collaboration and cooperation among all stakeholders in eradicating insecurity and cultivating peace in our region.

We implore Biafra Agitators, including IPOB, MASSOB, BRIGE, and others, to embrace non-violent means of engagement as it will foster an environment conducive to the eventual release of Nnamdi Kanu. Dialogue and peaceful resolutions remain paramount in our pursuit of restoring tranquility and harmony to the Southeast.

It is imperative for Southeast politicians, Igbo elder statesmen, esteemed elders of international renown, and influential Igbo opinion leaders to unite in engaging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in seeking a political solution for the release of Nnamdi Kanu. Strong assurances from these eminent individuals are crucial in persuading the Presidency to consider a diplomatic resolution.

In conclusion, OHANAEZE NDIGBO remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting unity, reconciliation, and progress for Ndigbo. We extend a hand of goodwill and seek the understanding and forgiveness of all Ndigbo and Biafra agitators as we stride towards a future imbued with lasting peace and prosperity. May peace and prosperity be restored to our beloved Southeast.