The Apex Igbo Youth body, Ohanaeze Youth Council, OYC, have appealed to the government of Ebonyi State to ensure unconditional release of Mr Peter Okutu through the help of good office of Governor Dave Umahi whom they described as a listening leader.

In a statement signed by her President General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro and made available to OTVNews, the group described the Eastern Governors as media friendly leaders but warns journalists to desist from writing reports that may Bridge the peace existing in the region.

The Press Release read in full.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo demand the unconditional Release of Ebonyi Journalist…beg Gov Umahi to intervene.

(1) Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide had described the arrest of Ebonyi State Journalist, the correspondent of Vanguard, Mr Peter Okutu over the publication of Military invasion in ohakwu Lga, as an attempt to disrupt the freedom of the press and Urge the authorities holding him to release him unconditionally. 

(2) OYC appeal to the father of the State, Governor Dave Umahi to pardon and direct the release of Mr Peter Okutu, as the news of the arrest would destroy the good works and the integrity he had built across the country, Igbo Youths also Urge journalists to report news that will not destroy the fragile peace we enjoy in the South East, igbo Youths have the implicit Confidence that Governor Umahi as a man of Peace and God sent, he will definitely prevail on the Situation. 

(3) OYC insists that Southeast Governors Forum are  media friendly and had maintained there is freedom of press in the zone and Urge Press men to co operate with the leaders of the zone. 

Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro – President General (Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide)