Apex lgbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has disassociated itself, South-East governors and ministers from the region on the October 20 2025, planned nationwide protest for the immediate unconditional release of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo said it had a grave sense of responsibility and a profound commitment to the well-being of the zone and the stability of the country.
The pan lgbo group unequivocally condemned the planned Sowore-Atiku-orchestrated protests, ostensibly focused on the release of Nnamdi Kanu.
Its position is contained in a statement issued on Thursday by the factional Deputy- President-General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro and Chief Chinyereze, National Thompson Ohia, National Spokesperson and made available to journalists.
According to Ohanaeze, "We view this purported demonstration with extreme suspicion and firmly believe it to be a thinly veiled attempt at fomenting unrest, destabilizing the government of President Bola Tinubu, and exploiting the legitimate concerns of Ndigbo for nefarious political ends."
Part of the statement read, "Our considered assessment, informed by credible intelligence and meticulous analysis, reveals that this proposed action is nothing more than a cynical ploy designed to instigate a repeat of the EndSARS riots, ultimately aimed at undermining the current administration."
It noted that this insidious scheme, allegedly funded by elements associated with Atiku Abubakar and his cohorts, "seeks to exploit the genuine desire for Mazi Nnamdi Kanu's release and draw unsuspecting Igbo citizens into a dangerous and destructive venture.
"In light of these grave concerns, we unequivocally reject the deception and Advocacy for Peaceful Resolution: The pursuit of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu's release through political solutions and the established judicial processes is paramount. We vehemently denounce any attempt by politicians, particularly those with a demonstrable history of acting against Igbo interests, to utilize the situation for their political gain.
"The sudden and unsolicited display of uneasy affection for Igbo causes by individuals previously indifferent or even hostile to our community raises significant red flags. We, the Igbo people, are too astute and discerning to be ensnared by the Atiku-Sowore booby trap.
"We call on Ndigbo to denounce and avoid the planned unrest. We implore all Nigerians, particularly those who cherish truth, justice, and democracy, to distance themselves from the planned protests, riots, and acts of civil disobedience scheduled for 20th October 2025.
"Ndigbo must not be used as pawns in any political game orchestrated by Atiku Abubakar and his allies, the ultimate aim being to destabilize the Tinubu administration. We emphatically state that this planned disruption does not serve the interests of Ndigbo, nor does it contribute to the cause of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.
"The Atiku-Sowore scheme will undoubtedly undermine the ongoing judicial proceedings and the ongoing political discussions and negotiations, which Mazi Nnamdi Kanu has wisely entrusted to a team led by Hon. Obi Aguocha.
"Concerns Regarding Public Safety and Security: We are deeply concerned that the planned protests and riots will endanger the lives and property of Nigerians, a tragic scenario we witnessed during the EndSARS riots. The potential for widespread violence, looting, and the destruction of critical infrastructure is a grave concern that cannot be ignored."
The organisation urged the Presidency "to remain resolute and not be distracted by the proponents of this scheme, who are largely political jobbers seeking to exploit the situation for their selfish gains.
"Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the Southeast Governors, and Igbo Ministers stand ready to engage in constructive dialogue with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to explore political solutions. We have faith in the judicial process and believe justice will ultimately prevail."
It called on Ndigbo to rally their support for President Bola Tinubu, "who is poised and has demonstrated readiness to rewrite the chequered history of the Igbos 55 years after the Biafra war ended by appointing Engr. David Umahi and wife of the legendary icon, Bianca Ojukwu. It shows that the Igbos have two persons who have the ears of President Tinubu."
