By Chukwudi Obasi
Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide on Sunday warned that the lingering insecurity in Jos, Plateau State, could draw increased international attention if urgent steps are not taken to halt the violence.
In its Easter message to Christians, particularly Ndigbo, the apex Igbo sociocultural organisation urged patience with the Federal Government amid prevailing economic hardship, attributing the current surge in petroleum prices to the global crisis arising from the United States–Iran conflict.
The statement was issued by the Deputy President General of Ohanaeze, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, and the National Spokesman, Thompson Ohia.
“The current hardships faced by Nigerians, resulting from the sudden hike in petroleum products, can be directly attributed to the US–Israeli war against Iran which commenced in March 2026,” the group stated, adding that the global crisis has had direct implications on Nigeria’s economy.
Ohanaeze strongly condemned the Palm Sunday attacks and the killing of Christians in Jos, describing the incident as tragic and unacceptable.
While commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his condolence visit to Plateau State, the organisation urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts to tackle renewed insecurity in the region.
Ohanaeze expressed confidence in the capacity of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Chief of Defence Staff Christopher Musa and Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle to address the security challenges.
“We have implicit confidence in the capabilities of the nation’s security leadership to quell the insecurity challenges in Jos,” the statement said.
The organisation also warned against actions capable of undermining the Federal Government’s ongoing infrastructure development efforts, noting that enemies of the state should not be allowed to derail the progress recorded in road construction nationwide.
On the political situation involving the African Democratic Congress, Ohanaeze advised opposition coalition leaders to exhaust internal legal mechanisms to resolve disputes over party leadership, rather than seek external intervention.
“It is essential to state the truth without hesitation. All internal legal options should be explored in seeking justice,” the group said.
Ohanaeze cautioned that developments in Jos and related political tensions could attract international attention at a time when global powers are already preoccupied with other conflicts.
“The Jos killings and related developments are capable of attracting urgent international attention again. Any issue that might make foreign governments take renewed interest in Nigeria should be avoided,” the statement added.
The organisation called on Ndigbo to continue supporting the Tinubu administration and urged Christians to embrace the spirit of Easter by promoting peace, unity and national development.
Ohanaeze also wished Igbos at home and in the diaspora a peaceful Easter celebration as they return to their communities to reunite with loved ones.
