In a strongly worded statement, the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide has vehemently denounced the recent killing of eight security personnel in Imo State by unidentified gunmen. Mazi Okwu Nnabuike, the group’s National President, characterized the violent act as a departure from the values traditionally upheld by the Igbo community.
“The Igbo people are renowned for respecting the sanctity of life. Such a ruthless act contradicts the moral fiber of an average Igbo individual. This abhorrent violence is indefensible and does not align with our community’s ethos,” Nnabuike stated.
According to a report by the Daily Post, the youth council extended an olive branch to those behind the attacks. Nnabuike urged the assailants to cease hostilities and advocated for a peaceful dialogue. “We encourage those instigating this chaos to put down their weapons and engage in constructive conversations,” he advised.
Nnabuike also underscored the urgency for a security summit in the South-East, calling for a comprehensive dialogue that would allow all stakeholders to air their grievances. Additionally, he renewed appeals to the Federal Government for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, a move he believed would pacify groups committing acts of violence under the pretext of seeking Kanu’s freedom.
While sympathizing with the families of the slain officers, Nnabuike directed a cautionary note to security agencies. He urged the military, police, and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to exercise restraint and refrain from exacting revenge on the residents of Umuezeala Owerre in Ehime Mbano Local Government Area.
“We understand that these unfortunate incidents have incensed various branches of the security forces. However, revenge-oriented actions against innocent community members would only worsen the situation and bring untold hardship to those uninvolved,” he warned.
Nnabuike’s statements resonate at a time when communities are struggling with escalating violence and growing mistrust between citizens and security forces. The message from the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council is a poignant reminder that dialogues and a collective focus on peace can provide a sustainable solution rather than a cycle of retribution.
As the nation grapples with these unsettling issues, the onus is on all stakeholders, from the grassroots to the highest echelons of government, to steer the country away from the precipice of disintegration and toward reconciliation and unity.
