The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has expressed its support for the recent cancellation of the Monday sit-at-home order in Enugu State by Governor Peter Mbah.
In a statement released by the Enugu State chapter President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Professor Fred O. Eze, the group applauded the governor’s bold initiative and described the cancellation as a step in the right direction.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Enugu State commends the courage and tenacity of the Governor in taking such a bold step to put an end to the scourge of sit-at-home,” the statement noted.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo emphasized that before the Enugu State Government’s decision, pro-secessionist group IPOB had employed various strategies to enforce the sit-at-home order.
“Consequently, Enugu State has been engulfed by a climate of fear, resulting in people no longer having the confidence to go about their businesses,” the statement continued.
As a result of the sit-at-home order, every Monday in Enugu State has become an unofficial holiday, as businesses and social activities usually come to a halt.
“The continued observance of the sit-at-home order has had a significant impact on the economy of Enugu State. Since IPOB introduced the order, economic activities in the state and the entire Southeast region have been severely disrupted, leading to increased insecurity,” Ohanaeze remarked.
Businesses have been forced to close down rapidly, with some relocating from the state. The order has also affected social infrastructure, foreign direct investment, and has caused a massive capital flight from the region.
“Therefore, the action taken by the Enugu State Government is timely. It’s noteworthy that Governor Peter Mba also called for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and has initiated steps to engage the Federal Government on his release. This indicates the Governor’s understanding of the core issues at stake,” Ohanaeze emphasized.
The group further stated that the sit-at-home order is self-destructive and has disrupted all productive assets and resources in the state since its enforcement.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo supports this cancellation and calls on IPOB to lay down their arms and join the Enugu State Government in building a strong economy that will withstand the test of time,” the statement added.
Eze assured the State Government that Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Enugu State chapter, will collaborate with them in educating youths on the best ways to channel their grievances.
He also appealed to parents, guardians, and the general public to join hands with Governor Peter Mbah and his administration in ensuring a permanent end to the sit-at-home order.
