The President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Nze Ozichukwu Fidelis Chukwu, has urged President Bola Tinubu to leave an enduring legacy by ordering the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Speaking ahead of Tinubu’s scheduled visit to Enugu State, Chukwu described such a gesture as a monumental step that would write Tinubu’s name in gold among the Igbo people and well-meaning Nigerians.
In a statement issued by Ohanaeze’s spokesman, Alex Ogbonnia, Chukwu lauded the Federal Government’s gradual shift in its approach towards the Igbo nation under Tinubu’s leadership.
He expressed hope that the president’s visit to Enugu would mark a turning point for reconciliation and unity.
The statement read: “It is therefore hoped that with the Enugu visit, President Tinubu will write his name with gold in the hearts of Ndigbo and all the well-meaning Nigerians, if he orders for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.”
Ohanaeze emphasized that marginalization, deprivation, and external instigation of insecurity have posed significant threats to the Igbo community, asserting that addressing these issues would foster national harmony and development.
“In other words, there is hardly any society or group that can be complacent under severe existential threats such as orchestrated marginalization, relative deprivations, and external instigation of insecurity, conflagrations and crises,” it added.
The group also praised Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for his transformative leadership in Enugu State.
Highlights of Mbah’s administration include the development of the Enugu International Conference Centre, smart schools across electoral wards, improved healthcare facilities, and the revitalization of critical infrastructure such as Hotel Presidential and Flour Mills.
Additionally, the statement commended Governor Hope Uzodimma, Chairman of the South East Governors Forum, for equipping the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri with night-landing capabilities, a move described as lifesaving.
Ohanaeze concluded by wishing Tinubu a safe and fulfilling visit to Enugu while extending the famed Igbo hospitality to him during his stay.
“We also appreciate His Excellency, Sen Hope Odidika Uzodimma, CON, the Chairman of the South East Governors Forum and Chairman of the All Progressive Governors Forum, for the life-saving installation of Night Landing Equipment at the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri.
“Finally, we wish President Tinubu a safe, joyous and eventful trip as he is treated with the Igbo hospitality in Enugu State,” the statement concluded.
