By Charles Onyekwere, Abakiliki,
Apex Igbo Socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo worldwide, has called on the unions of Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, and Trade Union Congress, TUC, to shelve their proposed nationwide strike scheduled for 8th November,2023.
Ohanaeze also commended the Inspector General of Police, IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, for swiftly taking action to implement one of the conditions by NLC and TUC following clashes between Joe Ajaero and the Nigeria Police on November 1st, 2023.
A statement on Monday signed by Ohanaeze’s Secretary-general, Mazi Okechukwu lsiguzoro, Lauded the lGP for the prompt redeployment of lmo State Commissioner of Police, CP, Ahmed Barde to foster an environment of peace and stability during the November 11, governorship election in the state.
The statement read in part”With the forthcoming State Gubernatorial Elections scheduled to be held on Saturday, 11th November 2023, Ohanaeze Ndigbo would like to commend the efforts of the Presidency, specifically the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for swiftly taking action to implement one of the conditions set forth by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), following the clashes between NLC National President Joe Ajaero, the Police, and the Imo State Government on Wednesday, 1st November 2023.
“In light of recent events, Ohanaeze Ndigbo is calling upon the NLC to consider shelving the proposed Nationwide Strike scheduled for 8th November 2023. This appeal is made in recognition of the redeployment of Imo State Commissioner of Police, CP Ahmed Barde, to foster an environment of peace and stability in Imo State.
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“We acknowledge that both Governor Hope Uzodinma and Joe Ajaero are prominent Igbo sons, and we implore them to prioritize the well-being of Imo State above all else. The recent violence in Imo State has raised concerns about potential voter apathy and low turnout during the upcoming elections. We urge all Imolites, both citizens and residents, to exercise their civic rights and participate in the electoral process by voting according to their conscience and choice.
The organisation urged the Imo State Government, organized labour unions (NLC and TUC), and the Biafra agitators to respect the rights and freedom of Imo citizens and residents to freely express their choices at the polls.
According to the statement, Ohanaeze appealed to President Bola Tinubu to ensure the independence and impartiality of security agents and the Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC), in carrying out their constitutional duties.
Nothing that the commitment to safeguarding the lives of voters and ensuring that the votes count is crucial for a transparent and credible electoral process.
