The Ohanaeze Youth Council (OYC) has commended the Igbo community for opting out of the recent nationwide strike.
In a statement, the National President General, Comrade Igboayaka O Igboayaka, expressed that the people of the South-East are starting to draw valuable lessons from historical experiences in national politics.
He remarked, “The recent protest, known as the ‘Days of Rage,’ has showcased the immense unity within the Ndigbo community. We are becoming more astute and aware of our historical context concerning national political dynamics.”
Igboayaka continued, “Historically, every effort made by the Ndigbo to foster unity in Nigeria has often been misconstrued as an act of rebellion against the so-called national cohesion promoted by Western and Northern Nigeria. The Ndigbo have consistently faced suspicion and hostility for their actions.”
He noted that any political move by the Igbos tends to be viewed with skepticism by others, labeling the Ndigbo as the most scrutinized ethnic group in Nigeria. Yet, those who harbor these suspicions have not joined in advocating for a referendum or supporting Igbo calls for independence.
“No other tribe has expressed solidarity with the Igbo plight except during the 2024 ‘Hunger Protest,’ when they lamented why we were not participating. Meanwhile, the Ndigbo have endured marginalization, violence, and injustice, while others stood by and observed. Ironically, they now express their disappointment at our choice to abstain from the nationwide protest.”
“For those who might be tempted to join the protests outside Igboland, I urge reconsideration, as the risk of becoming a sacrificial victim is alarmingly high,” he cautioned.
He also urged President Bola Tinubu to ensure the protection of Igbo lives and properties beyond their homeland.
“I encourage protesters to refrain from any looting plans. Any attacks on Igbo-owned businesses will be met with fierce resistance from the community,” he warned.
In addition, he called for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, reflecting on his prolonged detention under former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration. “We hope for his release at the discretion of the Commander-in-Chief, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
The group took a moment to pay tribute to several recently deceased Igbo leaders, stating, “Amid the ongoing protests, the Ndigbo are in a period of mourning for our esteemed icons who have left us in this critical time: Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, Chief Fred Agu, Chief Engr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, Chief Ifeanyi Uba, and Her Excellency Onyeka Onwenu.”
“This time is not for noisy protests over basic commodities like rice and beans. Instead, it is an opportunity for deep sociopolitical reflection on our quest for freedom in Nigeria.”
He emphasized the need for the Ndigbo to use the ‘Days of Rage’ as a moment to contemplate the 110 years of political subjugation under British rule, particularly how it has impacted the Igbo since the 1914 economic amalgamation of the Southern and Northern regions and the subsequent genocide from 1960 to 1970.
“The merging of the Southern and Northern protectorates served merely the British interests, not Nigeria’s political or economic development. We must therefore consider a restructuring of Nigeria for the benefit of all Nigerians.”
“I commend the Ndigbo for respecting the no-protest mandate in Igboland and their wisdom in pursuing a new political direction for the future.”
