By James Moses (9News Nigeria-Jos)
Ohanaeze Ndigbo has cautioned Igbo youths against the planned nationwide protest against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led federal government amid the hardship Nigerians are currently experiencing.
Ohanaeze’s President-General, Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, warned that Igbo youths are usually arrested and prosecuted with serious charges when they join protests against the Nigerian government.
Speaking in Enugu, Iwuanyanwu described the current economic crisis in Nigeria as unfortunate, stressing that he would convene a meeting of top Igbo economists and experts to stategise on how to overcome the hardships.
“As your leader, I am directing that no Igbo group or commuinity in Nigeria or diaspora should join any protest against this government.
“I am still studying the situation and I have asked those who made entreaties to me to tell me what their position was prior to the current administration.
“I have asked what they did when Igbo law was disenfranchised in the past”, he said.
“Igbo are opposed to military rule and prefer a democratic government where we can express our views.
“Youths all over the world are very restive and sensitive to issues affecting their future.
In Nigeria, Igbo youths and youths from other tribes at various times have expressed their dissatisfaction with events in the country.
“It is clear to us that when youths from other tribes of the country are involved, they are reprimanded and forgiven but when Igbo youths get involved they are arrested, incarcerated and even charged for serious offences.
“For example, the arrest of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu generated alot of problems for Igbos.
“Many Igbos including governors, lawmakers, religious rulers and business leaders pleaded for the release of Mazi Kanu without success”.
-9News Nigeria.
