LAGOS (Press Release) – Our attention has been drawn to publications by unscrupulous elements making rounds in the social media ascribing the recent mayhem and wanton destruction of properties in Lagos State to Igbos.
This twist of events is highly unfortunate and unacceptable, it’s nothing but malicious lies from pit of hell and illusive imagination of agents of destabilization. We condemned this in its entirety. Thank God we are in the age of social media where evidences and facts are not far fetched.
For ages Igbos as peace loving people have maintained strong synergy with the Yorubas. Ohanaeze Ndigbo and Afenifere have been in strong alliance in the Southern Nigeria leaders forum, which includes the PANDEF and Middle Belt regions of Nigeria, respectively. We share a common value in life, peaceful coexistence and unity among our people.
In this precarious situation and trying period of our nationhood all hands must be on deck to build and not destroy, to unite and not divide. Total adherent to the rules of engagement is of utmost importance and should be our guiding principle.
Consistently Ohanaeze national leadership have been in the campaign for peaceful coexistence, oneness and respect to the culture and tradition of our host communities in Lagos. We have maintained a good working relationship with the Government and good people of Lagos State. In line with our policy of leaving it better than we met it, no man in his rightful senses will destroy the house that gives him shelter but will do everything possible for it’s preservation.
Our heart bleeds and goes out to our falling heroes, the Nigeria Youths who paid the supreme price at Lekki tollgate, even as we condemned the atrocious act in strongest terms. We are in full solidarity with our touch bearers the Nigeria Youths, the pride of our Nation that are still hanging unto our National flag, the very symbol of our oneness. They are the hope of greater Nigeria.
We also condemn in strongest terms the destruction of public and private facilities in Lagos State while calling for calm and total restrain from hate speeches and action that may lead to further breach of public peace in the State
Having observed the uncharitable nature of what used to be a peaceful protest we advice Ndigbo to adhere completely to the directives of Lagos State Government in observance of the 24 hours curfew until it’s relaxed by the State Government, stay indoors and maintain peace and Oder in your neighborhood.
We call on our National Security Agencies in collaboration with Lagos State Government to up the games in protecting lives and properties of Nigerians wherever they may be to avoid vandalization of their means of livelihood in various markets.
We as a nation has gone through worst case scenarios and came out stronger and united.
This will not be an exception by His grace we shall overcome.
Everest Ozonweke
Secretary Ohanaeze
Lagos.