Jonathan Nwokpor
The Ohanaeze Ndigbo has claimed that certain political elites have obstructed efforts to secure the federal government of Nigeria’s release of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
The Ohanaeze named three southeast governors, members of the National Assembly, some phoney Biafra agitators, certain elders in the southeast, and other political elites as trying to obstruct Kanu’s release for their own self-serving political gain in a new statement that was made available to Naijaonpoint on Monday.
The group specifically named a Southeast Governor who did not play a major role in the plot to obstruct the release of the IPOB leader, but who did visit Ebonyi on May 5, 2022, for the commissioning of the Ebonyi International Airport, during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
However, Ohanaeze issued a warning in its statement, stating that if the impacted parties continued to plot to obstruct Kanu’s release through a possible out-of-court settlement between the federal government and the embattled Biafra agitator, it would no longer fold its arms and watch them sabotage efforts to secure Kanu’s release. Instead, Ohanaeze would sanction the affected individuals.
The statement from Ohanaeze, signed by Okechukwu Isiguzoro, its secretary general, says: “The recent turn of events regarding the potential out-of-court settlements between the Federal Government and Nnamdi Kanu has kindled optimism among Nigerians and Ndigbo.
“The decision of the Federal High Court Abuja to adjourn the proceedings till September 2024, urging both parties to explore negotiations and settlements under section 17 of the High Court Act, signals a glimmer of hope for justice and reconciliation.
“However, amidst this ray of hope, there looms a shadow of discord and self-serving agendas within certain quarters of Southeast Governors, Political Elites, and misguided Elders. These individuals appear intent on obstructing the path to Nnamdi Kanu’s freedom, deriving personal benefits from his continued incarceration, and diverting state resources under the guise of addressing security challenges in the Southeast.
“Moreover, there exists a group of political elites from National Assembly masquerading as Patriots but who seem eager to exploit the situation for their political gain, forsaking the true objective of securing Nnamdi Kanu’s release. Additionally, criminals camouflaged as Biafra agitators, led by individuals like Simon Ekpa, are perpetrating acts of violence and criminality that further exacerbate the precarious security situation in the Southeast.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo sternly warns all those who seek to thwart Nnamdi Kanu’s release to consider the gravity of their actions. The people of the Southeast bear the brunt of the escalating insecurity challenges and the economic fallout resulting from civil disobedience, such as the Sit At Home directives. Any efforts to derail the path towards peace and justice will not go unchallenged and there will be consequences.
“We express grave concern over the actions of a specific Southeast Governor who has consistently obstructed Nnamdi Kanu’s release for personal political gain. The missed opportunity during Former President Buhari’s visit to Ebonyi for the commissioning of the Ebonyi International Airport on 5th May 2022, due to the Governor’s interference who’s not from Ebonyi State, stands as a clear example of political sabotage. Ohanaeze Ndigbo shall not stand silent as these Governors continue to undermine the interests of the people for their agendas.”
The statement added that, “Punitive measures and disciplinary actions will be enforced against any individual or group impeding the Southeast’s journey towards peace and justice.
“We urge Nnamdi Kanu’s legal team to remain vigilant and guard against political interference from Southeast Governors and politicians that could jeopardize the process of securing his freedom.”
Distinguished Igbo leaders and statesmen like Senator Ike Nwachukwu, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, Chief Ebitu Ukiwe, and others were also urged by Ohanaeze Ndigbo to add their legitimacy and support to the initiatives aimed at freeing Nnamdi Kanu.
The statement added that, “The Federal Government must receive assurances from these Igbo respected figures to advance the out-of-court settlements. Let us stand together in pursuit of unity, justice, and prosperity for the Southeast region.
“We are resolute in our commitment to peace, justice, and the well-being of all Ndigbo. The time for change is at hand, and together, we shall forge a path towards a brighter future.”
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