A faction of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo led by Chidi Ibeh has said it is having a confidential negotiation for a potential release of the detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu, by the end of the year.
This was made known in a statement made available to The Guardian by the Secretary General of the faction of the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Okechukwu Isiguzoro.
The Igbo group, therefore, urged all Biafra agitators to abstain from any form of offensive aggression from October 31, 2023, for a period of 40 days.
Isiguzoro said: “To facilitate progress in this matter, Ohanaeze urges Biafra agitators to uphold a ceasefire for a period of 40 days, abstaining from any offensive aggression commencing on October 31, 2023. It is imperative that Biafra agitators exhibit discipline during this crucial period.”
He noted that the primary challenge currently facing Ohanaeze is being able to ensure that the Biafra agitators head to the directive, as this will pave way for the desired solutions to secure the release of Kanu.
Isiguzoro added: “Ohanaeze firmly believes that engaging with all relevant authorities through diplomatic channels remains the most effective approach to achieve the desired results.
“We implore Ndigbo to exercise patience and understanding throughout this critical period. We acknowledge the pain and hardship endured by the people of the South East since Kanu’s incarceration, and as custodians of our land, we assure you that positive outcomes are anticipated after the November 2023 Imo State Governorship elections. The imminent release of Kanu will, undoubtedly, serve as a resounding surprise to the South East.
“Ohanaeze continues to appeal to Nigerians whom Kanu may have offended, urging them to embrace forgiveness and prioritise the greater interests of Nigeria.”
The Igbo group noted that the restoration of peace and security to the region is a paramount task that requires the active involvement of all stakeholders, stressing that it remains committed to working behind the scenes, rallying and mobilising all relevant parties to achieve this crucial objective.
