Apex pan-Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has lauded what it calls the ‘strategic involvement’ of former Nigerian president, Olusegun Obasanjo, in the recently-concluded South-East Governors’ meeting, saying it was a ‘’necessary step towards peace and stability.
Describing the meeting as ‘dynamic and transformative’ Ohanaeze stated that events have shown that the recent turn of events in the country have shown that the South-East Governors’ ‘’have emerged from a period of complacency, rejuvenated by the baptism of fire and repentance facilitated by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, following their pivotal meeting on July 2, 2024 in Enugu.
‘’This meeting, attended by all the South-East governors, signifies a reinvigorated commitment to addressing the various challenges that have plagued the zone”.
The organisation added, ‘’Former President Obasanjo, in the esteemed presence of Chief Emeka Anyaoku and HRM Igwe Alfred Achebe, has played a crucial role in rekindling the confidence and vigour of the South-East governors.
‘’Their collective wisdom and guidance have paved the way for a renewed focus on addressing the insecurity and violence that have threatened the fabric of the South-East”.
Expressing its appreciation and recognition to the ex-head of state, Ohanaeze Ndigbo also commended former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Anyaoku, and the Obi of Onitsha, HRM Igwe Alfred Achebe, for their ‘’instrumental contributions in bringing former President Obasanjo to guide and mentor the South-East governors towards a path of collective responsibility in safeguarding the South-East region”.
It also stressed, ‘’The unrelenting attacks on police and military checkpoints, as well as police stations in the South-East, are representative of the urgent need for cohesive action and unity among the governors.
The South-East governors, both seasoned and newly-elected one year ago, are urged to work together to address the root causes of the security challenges in the region.
‘’The failure and inadequate funding of the South-East regional security outfit, EBUBEAGU contributed towards security threats in the South-East.
‘’Comparatively, the successful South-West regional security outfit, AMOTEKUN, serves as a model to emulate in terms of optimal funding and operational efficiency.
‘’Ohanaeze Ndigbo acknowledges the significance of local security measures and echoes former President Obasanjo’s counsel to the South-East governors’ to prioritise the protection of lives and properties within the region.
‘’Collaboration with non-violent agitators and individuals involved in the Biafra agitation is essential to discern and eliminate criminal elements disguising their activities under the guise of legitimate movements.
In the statement, the Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo,Okechukwu Isiguzoro, commended the South-East governors’ for their repentance and renewed dedication to fostering peace and security in the South-East.
‘’A crucial step towards sustainable peace would involve a reshuffle of security agency leadership,ensuring that individuals appointed possess a deep understanding of the region and a genuine commitment to its welfare.
‘’Former President Obasanjo’s patriotic intervention and guidance have been instrumental in steering the South-East governors towards a more proactive stance in safeguarding the region.
‘’A collective defence of the South-East, coupled with transparent assurances to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu regarding the peaceful resolution of Nnamdi Kanu’s situation, is paramount in charting a path towards harmony and stability”.
Ohanaeze said it was ‘standing ready’ to assist and support the South-East governors’ in their endeavours to restore peace and security in the region.
‘’It is through collaboration, transparency, and steadfast commitment that the South-East can overcome its current challenges and thrive in unity”, the group said.
