By Abigail Philip David
The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has expressed optimism regarding President Bola Tinubu’s visit to Enugu State today, particularly in relation to the potential release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
President Tinubu is scheduled to commission several projects executed by Governor Peter Mbah’s administration during his one-day visit, according to a statement issued on Friday by the Secretary to the Enugu State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia.
Ohanaeze, through its National Publicity Secretary, Alex Ogbonnia, voiced delight over what it perceives as a positive shift in the Federal Government’s attitude toward the Igbo people.
The statement read in part:
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo expresses immense delight over the gradual attitudinal change of the Federal Government towards the Igbo. Ohanaeze has always maintained that national peace, unity, patriotism, and sustainable economic development can only be achieved through equity and social justice.
“There is hardly any society or group that can remain complacent under severe existential threats such as orchestrated marginalization, relative deprivation, and external instigation of insecurity and crises.”
The group further expressed hope that Tinubu’s visit would mark a turning point for Ndigbo, particularly if it leads to the release of Nnamdi Kanu.
“With this visit, President Tinubu has the opportunity to write his name in gold in the hearts of Ndigbo and all well-meaning Nigerians by ordering the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu,”** the statement added.
The visit is seen as a potential milestone in addressing long-standing grievances of the Igbo people, fostering reconciliation, and promoting national unity.
