In the wake of the killings of the Nigerian Army personnel of ‘Operation Udo Ka’ in Aba, Abia State on May 30, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has called for justice.
It also extended its ‘deepest condolences’ to the Nigerian Army and the families of the fallen soldiers.
A statement by the organisation’s Secretary-General, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, said it received the news with heavy hearts and profound sorrow.
The statement said, among others, “We stand in solidarity with all those affected by this tragedy. The loss of these gallant soldiers in this regrettable and tragic incident is not just unacceptable; it is an act of cowardice.
“These brave warriors, who paid the ultimate sacrifice in service to their nation, were sons of Igbo land. The perpetrators of this heinous crime must face justice, for the blood of innocent Igbo soldiers cries out for retribution”.
It added, “Ohanaeze Ndigbo will invoke the aid of all Igbo gods and deities to ensure that those responsible for this unspeakable deed are brought to account.
“We vehemently condemn the renewed spate of killings and attacks in Abia, particularly in the once peaceful city of Aba.
“For seven years, Aba had been a beacon of tranquility; it is disheartening to witness this peace shattered. We urgently implore President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and quell the rising tensions in the South-east.
“The South-east governors seem overwhelmed by the security challenges, and immediate action is needed to restore calm and order”.
As we navigate this difficult moment, Ohanaeze Ndigbo calls for a return to non-violent and peaceful avenues of expression for Biafra agitators.
“Declarations of sit-at-home campaigns only serve to sow discord and strife. The regrettable killings of soldiers in Aba on May 30, 2024, not only hamper efforts toward securing the release of Nnamdi Kanu but also cast a shadow over prospects for peace and justice”, it added.
The Secretary-General of Ohanaeze, Isiguzoro, urged the Nigerian Army to target the perpetrators while safeguarding innocent civilians and the citizens of Aba.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Nigerian Army and the bereaved families, as we beseech divine strength and resilience upon them during this trying time.
“May peace, justice, and healing prevail amidst this grief-stricken hour, as we seek unity and assurance in the face of such profound loss”, it added.
