Apex Igbo Socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo worldwide, has called for a restructuring of the country under President Bola Tinubu.
Ohanaeze also distances itself from the calls for the restoration of Biafra independence.
According to Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the recent surge in Biafra sentiments among the Igbo community was attributed to the proliferation of ethnic, tribal, and religious divisions, as well as the Fulanization agenda under the previous administration led by former President Muhamadu Buhari, which ultimately spawned IPOB/ESN under Nnamdi Kanu.
ln a statement signed on Thursday by factional Secretary-general, Mazi Okechukwu lsiguzoro, Ohanaeze accused Former President Muhammadu Buhari of amplifying Nnamdi Kanu’s influence.
The statement read in part” Had Buhari effectively addressed the atrocities committed by violent Fulani herdsmen in the South, figures like Sunday Igboho and Nnamdi Kanu would not have been propelled to champion the cause of vulnerable Southern farmers.
“Consequently, Ohanaeze Ndigbo attributes Buhari to the actions of Nnamdi Kanu. Regarding the release of Nnamdi Kanu from detention, it is highlighted that his arrest involved international collaborators, as suggested by former Buhari spokesperson Mr Femi Adesina.
“While expressing appreciation for the efforts of prominent Igbo leaders to secure Kanu’s freedom. There is a noted lack of outreach to individuals who felt aggrieved by Kanu’s activities, especially those connected to President Tinubu.
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“In a bid to facilitate Kanu’s release, Ohanaeze Ndigbo announces plans for a peace meeting delegation involving key stakeholders such as the OBA of Lagos, Asari Dokubo, and the Sultan of Sokoto to advocate for forgiveness and cooperation towards securing Kanu’s freedom.
“Additionally, it pledges to ensure Kanu refrains from broadcasting divisive content against Nigeria’s unity and instead advocates for a restructured Nigeria, following his willingness to engage in negotiations with the Federal Government.
“Furthermore, Ohanaeze Ndigbo cautions against the manipulation of its leadership positions by individuals seeking to extend their tenure through blackmail tactics, falsely branding its elected representatives as Biafra agitators to obstruct the constitutional rights of Rivers State.
“It clarifies that no member of Ohanaeze Ndigbo is affiliated with separatist groups and emphasizes a continuous call for Biafra agitators to renounce violence and pursue non-violent avenues for self-determination, allowing security agencies to address criminal elements exploiting the Biafra cause.
