..Says Igbos in danger in N’West
The Ohanaeze Ndigbo, foremost socio-cultural organization representing the Igbo people, rises with urgent concern to address the alarming rise of a new terrorist group operating under the banner of “LAKURAWA” in the Northwest region of Nigeria—particularly in Kebbi and Sokoto States.
The Ohaneaze in a statement issued by the Secretary General Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro averred that the emergence of this group has rapidly escalated into a direct threat against the safety, dignity, and livelihood of our people, and it is imperative that we speak out unequivocally against this peril.
Isiguzoro said, recent reports detailing the activities of the LAKURAWA terrorist group are disheartening stressing that group has reportedly usurped the function of traditional rulers in Kebbi State, displacing them and assuming their roles as judges and arbiters of local disputes.
“This brazen act not only undermines the cultural and traditional frameworks of the communities but lays bare the harsh reality that many are now governed by fear rather than law. Traditional leaders, who have historically served as essential pillars of justice and community cohesion, now find themselves rendered powerless, operating under the thumb of an unrecognized and dangerous entity.
“The plight of Igbo communities in these regions is nothing short of grave. Reports indicate that the lives and properties of our people are under staunch threat; economic activities have waned significantly due to the constant harassment inflicted by LAKURAWA.
“Peaceful Igbo traders face robberies and violent assaults, resulting in the tragic loss of life—many among the 15 casualties reported in recent attacks. It is unconscionable that in a country where we cherish democratic values, our people are subjected to such brutal treatment.
“Moreover, the Governor of Kebbi State appears overwhelmed; his inability to assert control and safeguard the rights and security of his constituents can lead to a complete breakdown of law and order. In light of this untenable situation, we urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to recognize the urgent need for comprehensive action.
“The President has endowed Ministers of State with imperative responsibilities, and we implore Dr. Bello Matawelle, the current Minister of State for Defence, to rise to the occasion and implement decisive measures to quell this rebellion against Nigerian residents, particularly against the Igbo in the Northwest.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo expressed implicit confidence in Dr. Matawelle’s capacity to address and neutralize this threat. His retention in the Cabinet is not merely a matter of political convenience but a demonstration of presidential trust in his abilities to manage national security challenges.
“We believe he possesses the acumen necessary to mobilize resources and execute strategies that will eradicate the Lakurawa menace before it solidifies into another multi-national terrorist group akin to Boko Haram.
“While it is accurate to note that Lakurawa currently lacks the level of sophistication and reach of Boko Haram, we cannot afford to underestimate the potential for escalation. The history of terrorism in Nigeria demonstrates that even nascent groups can grow rapidly into formidable foes if their activities are not curtailed immediately. This is not merely a call for action; it is a clarion call for the survival of our people and the preservation of peace in the affected regions.
“Additionally, we call upon President Tinubu to facilitate the immediate deployment of all necessary resources to aid Dr. Matawelle and National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, urging them to physically relocate to the Northwest to orchestrate a robust military response against the Lakurawa terrorist group. This decisive intervention is paramount in ensuring the safety of every Nigerian citizen as well as the integrity of our national security”.
The Ohanaeze Ndigbo says they stand resolute in their commitment to advocate for the safety and well-being of the Igbo people, adding that, ” It is our hope that the Federal Government acknowledges the gravity of this situation and acts with the urgency it demands. We will not sit idly by as terror groups attempt to disrupt the fragile peace that we have worked diligently to uphold. The time for action is now—let us unite in purpose against the scourge of terrorism” the statement reads.
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