Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the leading Igbo socio-cultural organization, has issued a powerful call to action, urging Southeast Governors to assert their authority as Chief Security Officers (CSOs) of their states to tackle the escalating insecurity plaguing the region.
The group, deeply concerned about the deteriorating security situation, criticized the governors for their “insufficient responses” to the threats endangering the peace and stability of the Southeast. Ohanaeze highlighted that the governors’ weakened stance has enabled inconsequential figures like Simon Ekpa to issue baseless threats, including a recent illegitimate lockdown scheduled from August 28 to September 26, 2024, aimed at disrupting economic activities in the region.
In a statement released on Sunday by Ohanaeze’s factional Secretary-General, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, and made available to The Trumpet, the organization called for an urgent reassessment of the governors’ strategies. The group emphasized the need for solutions rooted in indigenous methods, leveraging the unique cultural dynamics of the Igbo people, rather than relying solely on ineffective conventional approaches.
“The Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex socio-cultural organization representing the Igbo people, issues this press release to address the reality regarding the escalating insecurity in the Southeast and the responsibilities of our Governors at this critical juncture,” the statement read.
The organization expressed deep frustration with the current leadership in the Southeast, noting the stark contrast between the present situation and the region’s storied history of strong, visionary leaders like Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Dr. Michael Okpara, and Chief Sam Mbakwe. Ohanaeze lamented that the once-respected region has become a source of mockery due to the reckless antics of individuals like Simon Ekpa, who, from abroad, continues to undermine the region’s dignity.
The statement also criticized the governors for their inaction on the issue of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), whose detention has fueled unrest. Ohanaeze pointed out that recent discussions between the governors and former President Olusegun Obasanjo should have led to a collective effort to secure Kanu’s release by engaging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. However, weeks have passed without any follow-up, exacerbating the situation and emboldening those who spread violence under the guise of activism.
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“The absence of action in seeking Kanu’s release not only endangers our communities but also allows criminals masquerading as Biafran agitators to proliferate under the guise of activism,” Ohanaeze stated, holding the governors accountable for their constitutional duties to protect the lives and properties of the Igbo people.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s statement also delivered a stern warning to the Southeast Governors, calling on them to restore leadership and reclaim control of the region from criminal elements. The group urged every Igbo person to disregard the “non-existent lockdown” declared by Simon Ekpa, warning that they will no longer tolerate decisions made in absentia that threaten the livelihoods of the Igbo people.
“In conclusion, as primary and secondary schools prepare for reopening, it is crucial that our communities remain vigilant and resilient against these threats. Ohanaeze Ndigbo remains resolute in denouncing the illegitimate lockdown and will continue advocating for the protection and welfare of the Igbo people,” the statement concluded.
This urgent appeal from Ohanaeze Ndigbo serves as a wake-up call to the Southeast Governors to take decisive action and reassert their authority in the fight against insecurity, lest the region continues to spiral into chaos.
