……..As They Offer Dove of Peace,Dialogue with FG.
Emmanuel lkpeama
In a significant and historic turning point for the geopolitics of Nigeria, the Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex sociocultural organization representing the Igbo people,has acknowledges the courageous decision of the non-violent Pro-Biafra Agitators to extend a hand of peace towards the Federal Government of Nigeria.
This was followed after twelve years of relentless diplomatic pressure from the international community and numerous United Nations-affiliated peace groups, urging these advocates for self-determination to embrace peaceful negotiations, this moment is both profound and transformative.
In a press release jointly signed by the Deputy President General and the National Spokesman of Ohanaeze Ndigbo,Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro and Chief Thompson Ohia respectively proclaims that the acceptance by the non-violent Pro-Biafra Agitators to offer a dove of peace and a hand of friendship to the Federal Government is nothing short of miraculous—a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s historical timeline.
Investigator news reports that this forthcoming dialogue is anticipated to mirror the earlier discussions held at Aburi, Ghana, now reborn as the “Abuja Accord.”
This initiative aims explicitly to address and resolve the long-standing grievances that have birthed the Biafra agitation since the cessation of hostilities in the Nigerian Civil War in 1970.
It will be recalled that the Non-violent Pro-Biafra Agitators have extended an olive branch to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, inviting the Federal Government to engage in a constructive dialogue over the nagging “Igbo Question.”
This dialogue seeks to confront the unresolved issues stemming from the unimplemented policies of reconciliation,reconstruction,and rehabilitation envisioned by General Yakubu Gowon following the war.
Additionally, it targets the entrenched anti-Igbo policies, including the discriminatory quota system and the closure of economic corridors in the Eastern region since 1970, which have exacerbated the marginalization and underdevelopment of the Igbo people.
The Ohanaeze went further to acknowledge President Tinubu who has shown initial commitment to rejuvenate the Southeast’s road infrastructure, devastated during the Biafran conflict.
The group noted that the proposed Abuja dialogue represents an opportunity for the President to gain a firsthand insights into the genuine concerns that motivate the Biafra agitation which would give him the rare opportunity of achieving a historic victory before the second anniversary of his administration on May 29, 2025,an accomplishment that has eluded past military rulers and civilian presidents alike for over five decades.
“The Federal Government is urged to grasp this moment with determination, particularly in light of the recent exoneration of the Igbo from the narrative surrounding the 1966 coup by former Military President General Ibrahim Babangida.”
“There is a pressing need to weigh the merits of initiating peaceful dialogue against the backdrop of imprudent budgetary expenditures that, thus far, have failed to address the security crises plaguing the Southeast.”they submitted
The release went on to say that Ohanaeze Ndigbo expresses its awareness of the deliberate attempts by various stakeholders both governmental and non-state actors who benefit from the instability in the Southeast.
“These vested interests, driven by selfish motives and financial gains, may seek to sabotage this peace initiative, which has been aptly coined the “Abuja Dialogue.”
“It is anticipated that individuals within these circles will resist any genuine efforts towards reconciliation, aware that peace would eliminate the conditions that allow their exploitative practices to thrive.”
“This dialogue has the potential to usher in monumental changes, including the release of all prisoners of conscience, notably Nnamdi Kanu, the reopening of the Eastern Economic Corridor, and an unequivocal end to violence disguised as agitation.”
“It is our earnest hope that those misled into cycles of violence and armed struggle will choose to abandon their hostile actions, paving the way for a peaceful and prosperous Southeast.”
“The Nonviolent Pro-Biafra Agitators firmly espouse the universally recognized principles of self-determination, echoing the legacies of iconic leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr., and Nelson Mandela.”
“Their commitment to resolute nonviolence and dialogue represents a deep-seated conviction that justice, equity, and reconciliation are attainable through enduring conversation and mutual respect.”
“As we stand on this pivotal precipice, Ohanaeze Ndigbo earnestly calls upon all relevant stakeholders to engage in this dialogue with sincerity and resolve.”
“The time has come to transcend our historical grievances and forge a united future, one characterized by peace, understanding, and shared prosperity.”the statement reads.
