In the mid of the current challenges confronting Nigerians, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, a prominent Igbo socio-cultural organization, has cautioned Igbo youths against engaging in any proposed protests against the federal government under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership.
Addressing the issue on Monday, Ohanaeze President-General Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu disclosed that he had received requests urging him to mobilize Nigerians in the region to participate in a nationwide protest.
Speaking in Enugu, Iwuanyanwu described the current economic situation in Nigeria as regrettable and underscored his intention to convene a gathering of prominent Igbo economists and experts to devise solutions to the prevailing challenges.
He said: “As your leader, I am directing that no Igbo group or community in Nigeria or the diaspora should join any protest against this government.
“I am still studying the situation and I have asked those who made entreaties to me to tell me what their position was prior to the current administration. I have asked what they did when Igbo land was disenfranchised in the past.
“Igbos are opposed to military rule and prefer a democratic government where we can express our views. Youths all over the world are very restive and sensitive to issues affecting their future. In Nigeria, Igbo youths and youths from other tribes at various times have expressed their dissatisfaction with events in the country.
“It is clear to us that when youths from other tribes of the country are involved, they are reprimanded and forgiven but when Igbo youths get involved they are arrested, incarcerated, and even charged for serious offences. For example, the arrest and detention of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu generated a lot of problems for Igbos.
“Many Igbos, including governors, lawmakers, religious leaders, traditional rulers, and business leaders pleaded for the release of Mazi Kanu without success.”