#Says Uromi people are not Igbos
Obinna Uchendu Abakaliki
A Chieftain of the Apex Igbo Sociocultural Organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro has cautioned against any reprisal attacks against Igbos residing in the Northern part of the country and insisted that those responsible for the killing of the 16 Northern Travellers are neither Igbos or have any link with the Igbos.
Mazi Isiguzoro who condemned in strong terms the tragic mob killings of the 16 Northern travelers in Uromi, Edo State insisting that those responsible for the killing are neither part of Igboland nor associated with the Igbo people.
In a statement signed by him and made available to journalists, Mazi Isiguzoro expressed his sympathy with the Northern Governors, the Sultan of Sokoto, the Northern Emirs, the Shehu of Borno as well as the different Cultural Organizations which includes the Arewa Consultative Forum, Northern Elders Forum, and Arewa Youths.
He urge the leaders to take decisive action in educating and informing their communities, particularly the youths, that Uromi, located in the Esan North Local Government Area of Edo State, predominantly belong to the Esan ethnic group and should not be misidentified as Igbo.
“Ndigbo is genuinely troubled by the deluge of narratives suggesting attempts to falsely affiliate the Igbo with the tragic events that transpired in Uromi. We sternly condemn the gruesome killings of innocent Northern travelers, expressing our heartfelt sorrow for the families affected by this violence.
“However, we resolutely admonish that linking the Igbo to the Uromi mob killings is not only misleading but also poses a grave threat to harmony and mutual respect among our diverse communities.
He noted that it is important to caution against any potential reprisals aimed at Igbo individuals or communities residing in the Northern region. We stand in solidarity with Northern leaders and the grieving families of the victims, mourning their loss with sincerity and compassion.
“It is crucial that we collectively condemn violence in all its forms, irrespective of the ethnic identities involved.
“In our appeal to the Federal Government, Northern Governors, and all relevant cultural and religious bodies, we emphasize the need for vigilance. It is imperative to ensure that upcoming Eid el-Fitr and Sallah celebrations are carried out in an atmosphere of peace and security.
Igbos firmly believe that the efforts of respected leaders, such as the Sultan of Sokoto and other influential Emirs, are essential in diffusing the heightened tension that has enveloped certain Northern cities. Their guidance can foster a climate of reconciliation and understanding that is crucial during this tumultuous period. Ends.
