The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, the Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has appealed to the federal government to dialogue with non-violent pro-Biafra agitators to avoid the South East being captured by the opposition coalition party in the 2027 general elections.
Ohanaeze stated that this moment represents perhaps the singular opportunity in 55 years to definitively resolve the protracted Biafra conflict, a goal it said has eluded successive governments.
The Pan-Igbo body expressed regrets that the federal government’s continued reluctance to engage with the pro-Biafran agitators constitutes one of its gravest failures, a miscalculation that could culminate in significant repercussions for the region and the nation at large.
In a joint statement issued on Tuesday by the factional Deputy President-General, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, and Chief Thompson Ohia, the national spokesperson of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the group asked the federal government to act with foresight by recognizing and addressing the legitimate grievances of the South East.
“Indeed, the failure to initiate dialogue underscores a missed opportunity to heal the wounds that have festered since the cessation of violence in the Nigeria-Biafra War over half a century ago.
“For clarity, it must be noted that the non-violent pro-Biafra activists are neither banned nor proscribed.
“Their unwavering commitment to peaceful agitation has remained unmarred by accusations of violence or conflict against governmental authorities.
“For over 23 years, they have emerged as the moral voice opposing the systemic injustices and inhumane conditions that have afflicted the South East population.
“It is through comprehensive dialogue with these leaders that the federal government can dismantle the cycle of violence and insecurity that has beset the region.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo stands resolute in its assurance that despite the evident silence from South East politicians who appear reticent to voice the truth regarding the resolution to the Biafra conflict, this non-violent leadership is fully prepared to collaborate with the federal government.
“History demonstrates that dialogue, not suppression, is the pathway to reconciliation. It is a pathway that has evaded prior civilian and military administrations for far too long.
“As we approach the 2027 electoral cycle, it becomes imperative to recognize the visible disturbances ahead.
“This upcoming election will serve as a referendum on the pervasive issues of hunger and poverty that plague our nation.
“President Tinubu must not place undue trust in ephemeral political endorsements or defections from state governors; such strategies are often reflections of self-preservation rather than genuine loyalty.
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“History has shown us that these previously employed tactics are riddled with peril, as exemplified by the fate that befell former President Goodluck Jonathan in the 2015 elections.
“The uncomfortable truth must be conveyed with clarity to the Presidency; the South East is at risk of being politically marginalized, held captive by the opposition coalition intent on undermining President Tinubu’s administration.
“The influence of South East governors has waned, rendering their endorsements effectively meaningless.
“The predominant voice in the region now rests with the non-violent pro-Biafra agitators, who possess the capacity to galvanize and mobilize the populace across the 774 local government areas.
“Therefore, it is imperative for President Tinubu to recognize that his political survival hinges upon the willingness to engage sincerely with the Igbo people.
“The non-violent pro-Biafra leaders have graciously offered a handshake of reconciliation, a historic opportunity for dialogue that must not be squandered.
“In seizing this moment, the government could chart a new course, fostering peace and unity, and ensuring that the lessons of history are not repeated.
“Let us collectively advance towards a future founded on dialogue, understanding, and reconciliation. The time for action is now,” Ohanaeze said.
