In the towhhall President Muhammadu Buhari had with Igbo leaders in Imo on his visit September 9, 2021, an issue stood out among others discussed.
The host and the visitors deliberated on improving infrastructure and stemming insecurity across the southeast.
But Ohaneze, the leading socio-cultural group in the region, assured Buhari they are not separatists.
IPOB and other pro-Bifra groups, though, have been fighting the federal and state government as they seek to break the Igbo away from Nigeria.
According to Prof. George Obiozor, the president of Ohanaeze, Igbo would continue to be part of Nigeria as long as there is justice in the country.
“Your Excellency, the security of Ndigbo in Nigeria and beyond has become a compelling primary responsibility of serious concern for Ndigbo.
“Regrettably our South East Zone has recently become a theatre of conflict, negating the peace-loving nature of our people.
“In this context, Ohanaeze Ndigbo calls for the establishment of a zonal and state police apparatus to support and complement the existing federal security architecture.
Obiozor then stated something more urgent.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo appeals to you, Mr. President, to see to the release of Igbo youths detained by various security agencies across the country,” he said.
Federal security agencies have arrested and killed hundreds of armed IPOB/ESN memers during attacks on police and military formations in Imo and other states.
Many thought the release of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu would top the list of Ohaneze request.
No mention was however made of him.