Ohanaeze Ndigbo said that recent turn of events regarding the likely out-of-court settlements between the Federal Government of Nigeria and Nnamdi Kanu has kindled optimism among Nigerians and Ndigbo.
The group said that decision of the Federal High Court Abuja to adjourn the proceedings till September 2024, urging both parties to explore negotiations and settlements under section 17 of the High Court Act, signals a glimmer of hope for justice and reconciliation.
Secretary General Ohanaeze Ndigbo Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro in a press statement made available to Daily Independent yesterday stated that, “Amidst this ray of hope, there looms a shadow of discord and self-serving agendas within certain quarters of South East Governors, Political Elites, and misguided Elders. These individuals appear intent on obstructing the path to Nnamdi Kanu’s freedom, deriving personal benefits from his continued incarceration, and diverting State resources under the guise of addressing security challenges in the South East”.
Isiguzoro alleged that there exists a group of political elites from National Assembly masquerading as Patriots but who seem eager to exploit the situation for their political gain, forsaking the true objective of securing Nnamdi Kanu’s release.
“Additionally, criminals camouflaged as Biafra agitators, led by individuals like Simon Ekpa, are perpetrating acts of violence and criminality that further exacerbate the precarious security situation in the Southeast.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo sternly warns all those who seek to thwart Nnamdi Kanu’s release to consider the gravity of their actions. The people of the Southeast bear the brunt of the escalating insecurity challenges and the economic fallout resulting from civil disobedience, such as the Sit At Home directives. Any efforts to derail the path towards peace and justice will not go unchallenged and there will be consequences,” the document added.
“We express grave concern over the actions of a specific South East Governor who has consistently obstructed Nnamdi Kanu’s release for personal political gain. Ohanaeze Ndigbo shall not stand silent as these Governors continue to undermine the interests of the people for their agendas.
“We affirm that punitive measures and disciplinary actions will be enforced against any individual or group impeding the South East’s journey towards peace and justice. We urge Nnamdi Kanu’s legal team to remain vigilant and guard against political interference from South East Governors and politicians that could jeopardize the process of securing his freedom”.
‘Ohanaeze Ndigbo calls upon esteemed Igbo leaders and statesmen like Chief Emeka Anyaoku , Chief Ebitu Ukiwe, Senator Ike Nwachukwu and others to lend their credibility and support to the efforts towards Nnamdi Kanu’s release. The Federal Government must receive assurances from these Igbo respected figures to advance the out-of-court settlements. Let us stand together in pursuit of unity, justice, and prosperity for the South East region”.
“We are resolute in our commitment to peace, justice, and the well-being of all Ndigbo. The time for change is at hand, and together, we shall forge a path towards a brighter future.”
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