Ohanaeze Ndigbo Commends Matawalle, Ribadu for Protecting Igbos Amidst Unrest

 

The Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, has expressed gratitude to the Minister of State for Defence, Hon. Bello Matawalle, and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, for their efforts in ensuring the safety of Igbos and Nigerians amidst potential protests and rebellion.

The organization praised the duo for their dedication to curbing politically motivated nationwide protests scheduled for August 1st to 10th, 2024. Ohanaeze had earlier advised Igbo residents in the Northern and Southwestern states to avoid participating in the protests, advocating for peace and calm.

Secretary-General Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro assured Igbos at home and in the diaspora that the Ministry of State for Defence and the Office of the National Security Adviser would enforce stringent security measures to protect Igbo lives and properties in the North and Southwest regions.

He reiterated the decision of Igbo traders and residents to boycott the planned protests, demonstrating their commitment to peaceful coexistence and unity. Ohanaeze urged the protest organizers to engage in dialogue with President Tinubu to address their grievances peacefully.

The organization warned of foreign mercenaries and unpatriotic elements scheming to incite chaos in Nigeria, using Igbos as pawns. However, the collective decision of Igbo residents to distance themselves from the protests has disrupted the sinister plans of the sponsors.

Ohanaeze called on the Presidency to intensify efforts in protecting Igbo residents in the North and Southwest from harassment or intimidation. The organization affirmed that there would be no protests in the Southeast, entrusting Igbo youths to thwart any attempts to incite unrest within the region.