The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Wing, has provided a clarification regarding the decision of Igbo youths not to participate in the upcoming nationwide protests scheduled from August 1 to 10, 2024.
Following an Emergency Convention of Igbo Youth Leaders and Stakeholders titled “State of the Nation,” held in Enugu, the organization outlined the rationale behind this stance.
During a press briefing on Monday, the acting National President, Chukwuma Okpalaezeukwu, expressed that the South East region is facing significant challenges, such as widespread economic hardship, high levels of youth unemployment, and inadequate representation in governance. It was emphasized that these issues warrant attention and action.
According to the resolutions passed at the convention, the Ohanaeze youth group supports the decision of their elders that the Igbo should refrain from participating in the scheduled protests. Instead, they have chosen to pursue constructive dialogue with the government to address the unique challenges facing their region.
Furthermore, following consultations with youths across the South East region, the group has decided to engage in discussions with the Federal Government and South East governors. The objective of these dialogues is to address the specific issues affecting the region and collaborate on finding sustainable solutions.
This approach is aimed at promoting constructive engagement rather than confrontation, with the goal of achieving more effective and lasting outcomes for the youth of the South East. It is a concern among the leaders of the Igbo community that the planned protest may lead to a loss of lives and damage to the property of Igbo citizens, reminiscent of the Endsars protest of 2020.
It has been suggested that one additional state is needed to achieve parity among the various regions within the country, including the South East. Furthermore, there is apprehension over the unjust detention of several individuals, such as Nnamdi Kanu, and the potential repercussions of the protest on investments owned by Igbo businessmen in different cities.
It is emphasized that constructive dialogue is crucial in ensuring that the voices of the Igbo community are heard and that principles of equity, fairness, and inclusivity are upheld going forward. The engagement of Igbo youth in political positions is also advocated for as a means of promoting their participation in the governance of the country.
In light of the ongoing threats against Igbo businesses and individuals, it is urged that measures be taken to prevent violence and the destruction of property. The end of the civil war in the South East is seen as a positive step towards addressing the grievances of the region, with the hope that further dialogue will lead to meaningful progress.
