…By for TDPel Media.
The apex socio-cultural organization of the Igbo people, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has expressed strong condemnation over the recent killing of traders in Enugu State during a protest.
The demonstration was triggered by the closure of some markets and shops by Governor Peter Mbah, who had banned the routine sit-at-home order declared illegal by Biafra agitator Simon Ekpa.
Protest and Tragic Incident
As a result of the closure of businesses that adhered to the sit-at-home order, traders in certain parts of the state staged a protest.
Unfortunately, the situation escalated, resulting in the death of two traders and injuries to several others.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s Appeal for Peaceful Resolution
Reacting to the incident, Ohanaeze Ndigbo called on Governor Peter Mbah to refrain from using force and instead opt for dialogue with the residents.
The group’s factional Secretary-General, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, condemned the violence and offered suggestions for alternative approaches that the governor could take.
Suggested Approaches
Ohanaeze Ndigbo urged Governor Mbah to reopen the sealed shops and businesses and explore peaceful avenues to address the sit-at-home order and civil disobedience.
The organization offered several recommendations based on their previous experiences assisting the Abia State Government in dealing with similar challenges:
Dialogue and Engagement:
The Enugu State government should engage in meaningful dialogue with relevant stakeholders to understand their concerns and collaboratively find acceptable solutions.
Open communication channels can foster trust and confidence among the residents.
Addressing Grievances:
The government should address the grievances of the affected traders by unconditionally reopening all sealed shops.
Compensation or assistance to those affected can help restore their trust in the government’s intentions.
Youth Engagement:
Engaging the youth in productive activities such as skills training, entrepreneurship programs, and educational opportunities can divert their energy away from civil disobedience.
Listening to their voices and addressing their concerns will reduce the appeal of unrest.
Empowerment Initiatives: Implementing empowerment initiatives for vulnerable communities can address underlying socio-economic issues contributing to civil unrest.
Providing access to basic amenities, creating employment opportunities, and promoting inclusive policies are essential in this regard.
Public Education and Awareness:
Launching public education campaigns to raise awareness about the negative consequences of civil disobedience and the importance of peaceful coexistence can change public perceptions.
Media platforms, community gatherings, and educational institutions can be utilized for this purpose.
Collaborative Efforts for Sustainable Solutions
Ohanaeze Ndigbo emphasized the need for Governor Peter Mbah to actively involve critical stakeholders, including the organization, in the decision-making process.
By working together, engaging in dialogue, and implementing targeted interventions, sustainable solutions can be achieved that promote peace, unity, and the well-being of Enugu residents.
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