- By Femi Alabi
Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has directed that Nigerians from the geopolitical zone should not partake in any planned national protest.
President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, who gave the directive said he had received entreaties requesting him to call Nigerians from the geopolitical zone to join in the violent demonstration across country.
He said the economists and experts would proffer advice to President Bola Tinubu on the economy, and Igbos would rally round the president to ensure that he completed his tenure.
“As your leader, I am directing that no Igbo group or community in Nigeria or in the diaspora should join any protest against this government.
“I am still studying the situation and I have asked those who made entreaties to me to tell me what their position was prior to the current administration.
“I have asked what they did when Igbo land was disenfranchised in the past,’’ he said.
“Igbos are opposed to military rule and prefer a democratic government where we can express our views.
“Youths all over the world are very restive and sensitive to issues affecting their future. In Nigeria, Igbo youths and youths from other tribes at various times have expressed their dissatisfaction with events in the country.
“It is clear to us that when youths from other tribes of the country are involved, they are reprimanded and forgiven; but when Igbo youths get involved they are arrested, incarcerated and even charged for serious offences.
“For example, the arrest and detention of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu generated a lot of problems for Igbos.
“Many Igbos, including governors, law-makers, religious leaders, traditional rulers, and business leaders pleaded for the release of Mazi Kanu without success,’’ he noted.