April 22, (THEWILL) – The pan-Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has expressed deep worry over the growing spate of violence in the country, especially in northern Nigeria.
A press statement by Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Secretary General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, said Nigerians and Ndigbo are deeply concerned about the escalating violence plaguing the nation.
According to him, “As we collectively strive for peace and unity, it is imperative that all levels of government intensify their efforts to combat the prevailing security challenges, particularly in Northern Nigeria”.
He explained that former military Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, recently underscored the severity of the threat posed by Boko Haram, labelling it as the primary obstacle to Nigeria’s peace and development since the Civil War, adding that his candid acknowledgement sheds light on the pressing need for concerted action to address this menace.
He said: “Ohanaeze Ndigbo finds it disheartening that the Northern Elders Forum, through Salisu Mohammed, Deputy Director, chose to propagate unsubstantiated claims regarding alleged harassment and attacks on Northerners conducting lawful business in the Southeast. In response, Ohanaeze Ndigbo advocates a thorough investigation to verify the authenticity, location, and timeline of the circulated video depicting this purported harassment.
“We vehemently condemn all forms of violence and intimidation against any Nigerian, whether in the East or North. We call on the Northern Elders Forum to exercise caution and refrain from making divisive accusations against the Southeast. National security challenges demand unity and collaboration among all Nigerians to support the efforts of the Federal Government and security agencies in combating threats.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo Secretary-General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, affirms our commitment to probing the veracity of these accusations and urges security agencies to conduct a meticulous investigation to determine the video’s authenticity and location. We implore the Northern Elders Forum to provide precise details to aid in identifying and bringing culprits to justice.
“The organisation extends a plea to the Northern group to collaborate with President Tinubu in eradicating insurgency and terrorism in the Northern region. The inconsistencies and retractions in the Northern Elders Forum’s statements raise doubts and hamper national cohesion. Nigerians and Ndigbo anticipate that future declarations will be responsible and truthful, free from contradictions that undermine credibility.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo remains committed to fostering unity and peace in Nigeria, and we call for a concerted effort to address security challenges holistically. Let us set aside regional prejudices and work collectively towards a safer and more prosperous nation.”
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