By Olusegun Olanrewaju
The apex pan-Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has lauded what it calls the ‘strategic involvement’ of former Nigerian president, Olusegun Obasanjo, in the recently-concluded South-East governor’s meeting, saying it was a ‘necessary step towards peace and stability’.
Describing the meeting as ‘dynamic and transformative’ Ohanaeze stated that events have shown that the recent turn of events in the country has shown that the South-East governors ‘’have emerged from a period of complacency, rejuvenated by the baptism of fire and repentance facilitated by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, following their pivotal meeting on the 2nd of July 2024 in Enugu.
In a statement by its Secretary-General, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, the organisation commended the South-East governors for their repentance and renewed dedication to fostering peace and security in the South-East.
“This meeting, attended by all the South-East governors, signifies a reinvigorated commitment to addressing the various challenges that have plagued the region,” it added.
The organisation added, “Former President Obasanjo, in the esteemed presence of Chief Emeka Anyaoku and HRM Igwe Alfred Achebe, has played a crucial role in rekindling the confidence and vigour of the South-East governors.
“Their collective wisdom and guidance have paved the way for a renewed focus on addressing the insecurity and violence that have threatened the fabric of the South-East.”
Expressing its appreciation, appreciation, and recognition to the ex-head of state, Ohanaeze Ndigbo also commended former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Anyaoku, and the Obi of Onitsha, HRM Igwe Alfred Achebe, for their “instrumental contributions in bringing former President Obasanjo to guide and mentor the South-East governors towards a path of collective responsibility in safeguarding the South-East region.”
It also stressed, “The unrelenting attacks on police and military checkpoints, as well as police stations in the South-East, are representative of the urgent need for cohesive action and unity among the governors.
“The South-East governors, both seasoned and newly elected one year ago, are urged to work together to address the root causes of the security challenges in the region.”
