Apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has called on President Bola Tinubu, to immediately engage in dialogue with the non-violent pro Biafra agitators in the South East in order to resolve the age long Biafra conflict or risk Losing Southeast to opposition coalition party come 2027 poll.
The warning was conveyed through a joint press statement issued on Tuesday and signed by the factional Deputy President-General and spokesman of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, and Chief Thompson Ohia, respectively.
According to the press release, President Bola Tinubu must not rely on the endorsement or the defection of governors in the South East to the All Progressives Congress (APC) until it is able to address the waves of agitation and unrest that had constituted the Nigeria-Biafra Civil War concluded 55 years ago.
“As President Bola Ahmed Tinubu marks the second anniversary of his administration, we at the Apex Igbo Sociocultural Organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, vigorously urge the Federal Government to engage in immediate dialogue with the Nonviolent Pro Biafra leaders.
“This is a singular opportunity, perhaps the most significant in 55 years, to resolve the long-standing Biafra conflict—an initiative that must not be overlooked.
“The failure of the Federal Government to embrace this dialogue stands as one of its most critical missteps and an unacceptable inaction. Had the government displayed foresight and courage in addressing the legitimate grievances of the South East populace, there is little doubt that President Tinubu would be celebrated as a hero across Nigeria, rather than facing the discontent that currently permeates the region.
“The ramifications of ignoring this opportunity are dire; the tragic consequences of neglecting to engage with Nonviolent Biafra leaders may perpetuate the waves of agitation and unrest that have constituted the narrative of the South East since the Nigeria-Biafra Civil War concluded 55 years ago.
“For the record, these Nonviolent Pro Biafra activists remain unbanned and unproscribed. Throughout their existence, spanning over two decades, they have consistently championed the cause of justice and peace, opposing the egregious atrocities and inhumane treatment inflicted upon the people of the South East.
“It is critical to understand that their nonviolent struggle has never been marred by accusations of violent crime or armed conflict against either the Federal or State Governments. Their commitment to peaceful resolution makes them essential stakeholders in addressing the myriad issues plaguing the South East today.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo is unequivocally assured that these Biafran leaders are equipped to aid the Federal Government in overcoming the challenges of violence and insecurity that have impeded peace within the region. The historical dialogue that has eluded both civilian and military administrations throughout the last 55 years can be bridged through constructive engagement with these leaders.
“Looking ahead to 2027, we alert President Tinubu to the pressing disturbances that lie ahead. The upcoming elections are poised to serve as a referendum on the pervasive issues of hunger and poverty that afflict our nation.
“In this context, the President must not place undue reliance on transient political endorsements or the defection of governors, who may offer little more than lip service. Such tactics are fraught with deception and self-preservation, and they pose an imminent risk to the integrity of President Tinubu’s re-election bid.
“The truth, as uncomfortable as it may be, is that the South East is at grave risk of being held captive by opposition coalitions intent on unseating the current administration. The influence of the South East governors has waned significantly, and their political endorsements have proven ineffective and insubstantial.
“In stark contrast, the Nonviolent Biafra Agitators wield significant influence over the sentiments of the South East populace. Their established rapport and goodwill punctuate the importance of fostering dialogue with these leaders, whose historic handshake offered for reconciliation must be earnestly embraced.
“In summation, President Tinubu’s political survival is intrinsically linked to his ability to engage meaningfully with the Igbo people, whose voices are dispersed across the 774 local government areas of Nigeria. It is imperative that this administration recognises the potential for dialogue to serve as a catalyst for lasting peace and progress.
“The moment for action is now. The time to act decisively is upon us, and we, the Ohanaeze Ndigbo, stand ready to facilitate this necessary dialogue for the benefit of all,” the statement read