Igbo youths have firmly declared their non-participation in the proposed nationwide protest against the increasing hardship in Nigeria.
Instead, they advocate for continued engagement with the government to address their grievances.
News360 Info reports that this stance was articulated during an emergency convention organized by the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Wing Worldwide, which includes various youth groups from the five South East states and Igbo-speaking regions of Delta and Rivers states.
Chukwuma Okpalaezeukwu, the National Leader of Ohanaeze Youth Wing, highlighted the reasons why Igbo youths have legitimate grounds to protest, citing long-standing marginalization and neglect.
He stated, “There are so many reasons the Igbo youths should protest, including the unwarranted detention of many Igbo youths, especially Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, in facilities across the country; the destruction of Igbo property in towns and cities like Lagos and Abuja.
Furthermore, Igbo youths are not included in governance; the South East has the least number of states, only five, while others have six or more. There’s a dearth of national infrastructure in our zone. Since I was born, I have not seen critical national infrastructure in the South East.”
Despite these valid reasons for protest, Okpalaezeukwu emphasized the potential risks involved.
“We are aware that once a protest begins, the Igbo will suffer the most. They will target the property of our people to loot and destroy. So, what benefit will our people get if our properties are destroyed?” he questioned.
The Ohanaeze youth leader articulated their demands clearly, focusing on the immediate release of all detained Igbo youths, including Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
He also called for the inclusion of Igbo youths in government roles, particularly from among those gathered at the convention.
Furthermore, he demanded the creation of an additional state in the South East to address issues of justice, equity, and fairness.
“We also demand that the South East Governors convene a meeting with the Igbo youths,” Okpalaezeukwu added.
Expressing a willingness to present their case directly to President Tinubu, Okpalaezeukwu appealed passionately for an audience with the president.
He noted, “Our utmost aim is to ensure that no Igbo youth is caught in the crossfire of Igbophobia and the proposed protest.”
The convention concluded with a voice vote, where the overwhelming majority of participants supported the resolutions.
Okpalaezeukwu announced, “What we are saying is that we, the Igbo youths in the South East, after consultation with the Igbo youths across Nigeria, have resolved not to participate in the proposed protest.”
