The President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Nze Ozichukwu Fidelis Chukwu, has called on President Bola Tinubu to leave an enduring legacy by ordering the release of the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
Speaking ahead of Tinubu’s scheduled visit to Enugu State, Chukwu described such a move as a monumental step toward reconciliation and unity in Nigeria. “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,” Chukwu said in a statement.
Ohanaeze highlighted the persistent issues of marginalization, deprivation, and external instigation of insecurity facing the Igbo community. The group asserted that addressing these challenges 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,” the statement added.
The group expressed optimism that Tinubu’s visit to Enugu would mark a turning point for reconciliation and progress in Nigeria.
Ohanaeze also commended Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah of Enugu State for his transformative leadership. The group acknowledged key achievements of Mbah’s administration, including the development of the Enugu International Conference Centre, the establishment of smart schools in electoral wards, improved healthcare facilities, and the revitalization of critical infrastructure such as Hotel Presidential and Flour Mills. “We are proud of the strides made by Governor Mbah in repositioning Enugu State. His achievements reflect a commitment to innovation and progress,” the statement noted.
In addition, the group praised Governor Hope Uzodimma, Chairman of the South East Governors Forum, for equipping the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri with night-landing capabilities. “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,” Ohanaeze stated.
As President Tinubu’s visit approaches, Ohanaeze expressed goodwill and extended the famed Igbo hospitality to him. “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.
The visit is expected to provide an opportunity for dialogue and a platform for addressing critical issues affecting the South-East region.
