Okechukwu Isiguzoro, a chieftain of apex Igbo sociocultural group, has commended the people of Southeast for their calmness amidst the recent wave of protests targeting Bola Tinubu regarding the prevailing economic challenges in Nigeria.
Isiguzoro noted that the Southeast region has long grappled with a history of governmental neglect, a situation that persists from the era of former President Muhammadu Buhari to the present administration.
He called upon Tinubu to prioritize the implementation of recommendations outlined in the 2014 Constitutional Conference, particularly in light of the economic adversities confronting the nation.
In a statement issued and endorsed by Isiguzoro, who serves as the factional Secretary-General of Ohanaeze, he remarked, “Amidst the nationwide outcry and agitation spurred by mounting living expenses, economic hardship, and food scarcity, a notable serenity prevails within the former Eastern Nigeria, encompassing the Southeast and South-South regions.
READ MORE: Nigeria Needs Bold Leaders to Tackle Corruption, Says Ex-Presidential Aide
“The striking serenity and resolute silence amidst the prevalent anger and upheaval in the North and Southwest have left many, including the Presidency and the North, astounded.
“The preeminent Igbo socio-cultural organization and unwavering advocate for the Igbo people, commends the citizens of the Old Eastern region, particularly the Southeast, for their exceptional acumen and sagacity in abstaining from spearheading protests against Tinubu and the Federal Government amid economic hardships,” Isiguzoro Said.
“Since the inception of the Buhari regime in 2015 to the current Tinubu administration, the Southeast has borne the brunt of governmental neglect and discrimination.
“Whether it be the Center’s exclusions, the wanton demolition of Igbo properties in Lagos without federal intervention, the systematic burning of Igbo markets in the Southwest, minimal federal ministerial appointments, or the unjust incarceration of Nnamdi Kanu juxtaposed with the favored treatment of figures like Sowore and Igboho, the injustices meted out to the Southeast are glaring.
“As protests surge in Niger, Kano, Lagos, Osun, and Abuja, the absence of casualties or protester killings resulting from security intervention starkly contrasts with the haunting memories of Southeastern lives lost during past protests against Kanu’s detainment and the tragic Obigbo (Oyibo) Massacre in Rivers State.
“Ohanaeze stands in awe of the Southeast populace for their undaunted bravery and rare insight in weathering the storm. We stand in solidarity with all suffering Igbos and Nigerians, urging the Federal Government to overhaul President Tinubu’s floundering economic team with competent hands to salvage the crumbling economy before it collapses completely.
“Moreover, instead of issuing hollow threats to disillusioned citizens, the government should heed the voices of reason and implement the recommendations of the 2014 Constitutional Conference to quell the mounting dissent and rebellion.”