The recent killing of eight security operatives in Imo State by unknown gunmen has been strongly condemned by Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation.
Expressing Sadness and Condemning the Act
In a statement issued by the National President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike, the group expressed profound sadness over the murder of the security personnel. They emphasized that such acts of violence are not in line with the principles and values that the Igbo people are known for.
Said Nnabuike, “The Igbo people have always shown respect for the sanctity of life, and they refrain from shedding blood, regardless of the individuals involved. The barbaric murder of security operatives or anyone else is unjustifiable, reprehensible, and goes against the moral conscience of an average Igbo man.”
Appeal for Dialogue and a Security Summit
Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide appealed to those responsible for the heinous act to lay down their arms and opt for dialogue instead. They believe that recent events highlight the urgent need for a security summit in the South-East, as well as an all-encompassing dialogue where all aggrieved parties can express their grievances.
Nnabuike also reiterated the organization’s plea to the Federal Government to release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, stating that doing so would put an end to the atrocities committed by those using his demand for release as a cover.
Cautioning Against Retaliatory Attacks
While sympathizing with the families of the slain security operatives, Nnabuike appealed to security agencies not to take revenge on the residents of Umuezeala Owerre in Ehime Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State. Expressing concern about the anger and provocation caused by the killings, the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide implored the Army, the Police, and the NSCDC to exercise utmost caution and avoid retaliatory attacks on innocent individuals.
Nnabuike stressed the consequences of a misdirected retaliatory attack, emphasizing the potential harm it could bring to innocent people. He pleaded for restraint, as resorting to violence would only exacerbate the situation.
