Ohanae Ndigbo strongly criticized Bayo Onanuga for his negative remarks about the Igbo community. The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization has called on Onanuga to redirect his energy toward helping address Nigeria’s broader issues rather than perpetuating division.
The group questioned why Onanuga consistently harbors what they described as “unthoughtful, loathsome, and deep-seated hate” against the Igbo people. They emphasized that the hardships facing Nigeria are not confined to any ethnicity and urged a more inclusive approach to national challenges.
Ohanae Ndigbo also addressed Onanuga’s recent comments regarding planned nationwide protests. Onanuga had suggested that these protests were being organized by supporters of Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate, and accused Obi of inciting unrest. Onanuga’s statements implied that the Igbo community was behind the protests, which Ohanae Ndigbo rejected as baseless.
Dr. Alex Ogbonnia, National Publicity Secretary of Ohanae Ndigbo, rebuked Onanuga’s remarks. He noted that Onanuga’s previous statements, including a warning against Igbo interference in Lagos politics, reflected a consistent pattern of ethnic bias. Onanuga’s past comments have included dismissive remarks about the Igbo, which he defended as his right, despite backlash from various quarters.
Ohanae Ndigbo’s response highlights that the current economic and social hardships in Nigeria, such as poverty, insecurity, and rising costs, affect all Nigerians irrespective of their ethnic backgrounds. They called on the government to focus on policies and programs that address these widespread issues rather than stoking ethnic divisions.
The group criticized Onanuga for threatening the masses rather than addressing the root causes of the discontent. They argue that such rhetoric only exacerbates tensions in a fragile society.
Ohanae Ndigbo reaffirmed its stance on the upcoming protests scheduled for August 2024. The organization’s President General, Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, has previously directed Igbo people to refrain from participating in these protests against President Bola Tinubu. Iwuanyanwu highlighted that when youths from other ethnic groups protest, they are often reprimanded but later forgiven, whereas Igbo youths face harsher consequences.
The organization also referenced past incidents, such as the arrest of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, which have negatively impacted the Igbo community. They view the current hardships as a result of long-standing injustices and marginalization.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s criticism of Igbophobia was also cited. Obasanjo has called for a merit-based approach and full inclusion of the Igbo in national affairs to prevent further societal discontent.
Ohanae Ndigbo urged unity and a focus on addressing Nigeria’s collective issues. They reiterated their stance against joining the upcoming nationwide protests and called for national solidarity and effective governance.
Source: Vanguard
