South East Governors ban Biafra agitation

The South- East Governors’ forum headed by Governor David Umahi, on Friday, September 15, held a meeting at Enugu state, which was prompted by the chaos between the members of IPOB, and the Nigerian soldiers, leading to the destruction of lives and properties.

The South-East Governors’ forum took a decision to ban IPOB led by controversial leader, Nnamdi Kanu, during the meeting held at Enugu government house.

The Governors of Enugu; Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Anambra; Willie Obiano, Ebonyi; David Umahi, and Abia state; Okezie Ikpeazu were present at the meeting, while Imo state governor, Rochas Okorocha was represented by the state's deputy governor Eze Madumere.

The meeting also had in attendance Chief Nnia Nwodo, president general of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Ike Ekweremadu, deputy senate president, and Gen. Adamu Abubakar, the general officer commanding, 82 Division, Enugu.

Governor Umahi who read a communique after the 2-hour meeting, said;

“All activities of IPOB are hereby proscribed. IPOB and all other aggrieved groups are advised to articulate their position on all national issues and submit to the committee of governors and National Assembly members from Southeast zone, through the chairman, South-East Governors’ forum."  

Mazinwosublog.comearlier reported that Nnamdi Kanu turned down the meeting request by the members of the South-East Governors’ forum, on Wednesday, alleging it to be a plan to sideline him, and the activities of IPOB.

The governors are expected to meet with some leaders of the zone to deliberate and come out with a blueprint on how to address the situation and challenges posed by Nnamdi Kanu, IPOB leader. 

The meeting also reiterated their earlier position that the November 18, 2017 governorship election in Anambra must hold.

“Accordingly, we appeal to Mr. President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR to please, withdraw the military in the South-east zone, while police perform their traditional role of maintaining law and order,” he added.

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Gov. Umahi said the South-east governors have taken concrete steps to protect the lives and property of non-indigenes in the region.

He said that the governors were in touch with the Northern Governors Forum and that the latter assured them of the safety of all Igbos living in the north. He said the Igbo governors plan to exchange visits with their northern counterparts.

“In keeping with our earlier position, we wish to assure Nigerians that full investigation is ongoing on all allegations of killings, maiming and other unlawful conduct in the South-east zone within this period. The governors and the security agencies are in agreement that appropriate action be taken against anyone found culpable,” he said.