In a significant declaration, Ohanaeze Ndigbo reiterates its position on the Biafra issue, emphasizing support for a restructured Nigeria under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, rather than advocating for the restoration of Biafra. It acknowledges that the fervor around Biafra among the Igbo community stems from the amplification of ethnic, tribal, and religious divisions, as well as the Fulanization agenda under the previous administration of President Muhamadu Buhari, which led to the emergence of IPOB/ESN under Nnamdi Kanu.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo holds Former President Buhari responsible for upholding Nnamdi Kanu’s significance. Had Buhari addressed the atrocities committed by violent Fulani herdsmen in the South, individuals like Sunday Igboho and Nnamdi Kanu would not have risen to defend the vulnerable Southern farmers. Thus, Ohanaeze Ndigbo attributes Nnamdi Kanu’s actions to Buhari’s inaction.

Discussing the steps needed for Nnamdi Kanu’s release from detention, it is highlighted that Kanu was apprehended by Buhari’s government with the aid of international collaborators, as reportedly confirmed by former Buhari spokesperson Mr. Femi Adesina. While expressing gratitude for the efforts of notable Igbo political, religious, and traditional leaders to secure Kanu’s freedom, Ohanaeze Ndigbo notes the lack of outreach to those who felt offended by Kanu’s activities, particularly those associated with President Tinubu.

To facilitate Kanu’s release, Ohanaeze Ndigbo announces plans for a peace delegation meeting involving key stakeholders such as the Oba of Lagos, Asari Dokubo, and the Sultan of Sokoto to advocate for forgiveness towards Kanu and work for his liberation. Additionally, Ohanaeze Ndigbo commits to ensuring that Kanu ceases negative broadcasts against Nigeria’s unity and instead pivots towards promoting a restructured Nigeria, now that he has shown willingness to negotiate with the Federal Government.

Furthermore, Ohanaeze Ndigbo raises concerns about certain Igbo leaders resorting to blackmail to extend their tenures by falsely labeling elected representatives as Biafra agitators to manipulate the constitution, thereby denying Rivers State its right to produce the President General by 2025. It clarifies that no member of Ohanaeze Ndigbo aligns with Biafra separatist groups, urging Biafra agitators to embrace peaceful dialogue with Southeast Governors to address criminal activities in the region.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo underscores the importance of relinquishing violent tactics and reverting to non-violent methods for self-determination, allowing security forces to deal with criminals exploiting the Biafra cause.

MAZI OKECHUKWU ISIGUZORO
SECRETARY-GENERAL
OHANAEZE NDIGBO.