In a significant development, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, a prominent Igbo socio-cultural organization, has called upon the governors of South-Eastern states to grant amnesty to the so-called “unknown gunmen” who have been linked to a series of killings and property destruction in the region. The appeal comes as a step toward addressing the escalating insecurity in the area.
The group expressed its gratitude to Hope Uzodimma, the Chairman of the South-East Governors Forum and the Governor of Imo State, for taking the lead in offering amnesty to these elusive individuals hiding in the bush. Governor Uzodimma introduced the amnesty program as a proactive measure to combat insecurity in the state.
In a statement issued by Dr. Alex Ogbonnia, the National Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the organization praised Governor Uzodimma’s initiative following a meeting of selected leaders of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Northern Zone. This meeting took place at the residence of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo worldwide.
Ogbonnia also highlighted Uzodimma’s commitment to providing full employment opportunities for youths who renounce illicit activities in Imo State. He expressed hope that other South-East governors would emulate this amnesty program, stressing the importance of peace prevailing in Igboland.
Additionally, the meeting of Igbo leaders expressed deep concern about the prevailing insecurity in the South-East and the continued detention of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. They have mandated President General Iwuanyanwu to seek an appointment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, aiming to negotiate Kanu’s release and address other security issues in the region.
Furthermore, the meeting discussed plans to establish an International Market in Igboland, with the objective of providing market stalls to Igbo traders upon project completion. An Igbo Traders Associations summit, involving participants from Nigeria and parts of Africa, was also announced.
Ogbonnia revealed that Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu had announced the formation of a Special Committee named the “Committee for Reconciliation and Peace Building in Nigeria,” with Dr. Dominic Okechukwu as the Chairman and Dr. Joseph Ibekwe as the Secretary. The full committee members will be announced at a later date.
Moreover, the President General inaugurated the Elders Council for Abuja and the Northern States of Nigeria, with Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife serving as the Chairman and Chief S.N. Okeke as the Deputy, while Prof. Charles Nwekeaku was appointed as the Secretary.
Lastly, the members of the meeting applauded the dynamic initiatives undertaken by Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu since assuming office as the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, particularly in the areas of peace-building, transportation, railway, seaport, international airport, and other strategic interests for the Igbo community. Dignitaries who attended the meeting included Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo, Sen. Chris Ngige, Sen. Joy Emordi, Ambassador Eddy Onuoha, Ken Emechebe, and Chief Sam Obaji, among others.
