The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo has demanded a probe of the extra-judicial killings of 50 Igbo youths, whose bodies were found floating in Ezu River in Anambra State on January 9, 2013, when Peter Obi was the governor.
Ohanaeze made the demand in a press statement issued on Monday and signed by Okechukwu Isiguzoro, the factional deputy president general.
The apex Igbo group justified making the demand as a commitment to truth, justice, and accountability from Obi.
Ohanaeze said that it is disturbing for Obi not to have furnished the public about the circumstances surrounding the killing of the 50 youths over a decade after he left office.
“For over a decade, there has been a conspicuous silence surrounding the events that transpired during your tenure, Mr. Obi.
“As the chief security officer of Anambra State and the governor at that time, the gravity of your position necessitates a transparent disclosure regarding this heinous act.
“Your reticence in providing clarity around whether you authorised or had knowledge of the unlawful death sentences and subsequent execution of these valiant youths raises profound concerns about your accountability and moral compass in leadership,” Ohanaeze said.
The statement added that Obi has evaded private invitations extended to him to explain his role in the killings, adding that “Ohanaeze Ndigbo firmly asserts that your repeated avoidance of private discussions and inquiries on six separate occasions, dedicated to elucidating your role in this tragic narrative, is untenable.
“The families of the victims and the global community deserve to know the truth. Therefore, we demand immediate clarification from you, not only as a matter of public interest but as an ethical imperative.
“The suspicions surrounding your complicity in these egregious acts must be addressed with the urgency and seriousness they unequivocally warrant.
“In the coming days, Ohanaeze Ndigbo will officially communicate with pertinent authorities to instigate an inquiry into the Ezu River incident of 2013.
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“Should you, Mr. Obi, continue your conspiracy of silence, a stance you have maintained for 12 years, we will be compelled to escalate this matter.
“A formal petition will be submitted to the federal government, representing the families and groups who have suffered immeasurable losses, in relentless pursuit of justice for the 50 innocent lives taken too soon.
“It is imperative that we unequivocally demand an independent investigation into these tragic deaths, which, under the alleged directives of your administration, remain shrouded in mystery and dread.
“We urge you to rise to this occasion, confront the truth, and stand with the people whose trust you sought during your governorship.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo remains resolute in our advocacy for justice and accountability.
“The call for truth transcends all societal boundaries, and it is our collective duty to ensure that justice is served, history is reckoned with, and the memories of the departed are honored with integrity.”
