The Igbo apex socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, condemned the killing of some traders in Enugu State on Wednesday.
Recall that two traders were killed and several others injured during a protest in the state yesterday over the closure of some markets and shops by the state governor, Peter Mbah.
The governor, upon assumption into office, declared the routine sit-at-home order by a Biafra agitator, Simon Ekpa, Illegal and banned it.
Mbah on Monday, as gathered by OsunDailyNG, fulfilled his promise of closing businesses that complied with the sit-at-home order down.
A development that caused a protest by traders yesterday in some parts of the state.
Reacting to the incident, the apex Igno group has appealed to Mbah not to use force. Still, it should resort to dialogue with residents, address their grievances, engage the youths, create awareness, and empower the residents.
The group’s factional Secretary-General, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, condemned the killing of the protesting traders and suggested ‘better’ approaches the governor could adopt.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo has, following the incident, requested that the governor reopen sealed shops and businesses to explore other peace avenues.
Isiguzoro stated that “Ohanaeze Ndigbo is willing to assist Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State in finding ways to end the sit-at-home order and civil disobedience without casualties or penalties on the residents.
“A closed-door meeting with critical stakeholders, including Ohanaeze Ndigbo, can indeed be a constructive step towards resolving the issue.
“Drawing from the experience of Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s assistance to the Abia State Government from June 2016- May 2023, in minimising the effects of sit-at-home and addressing the activities of Biafra agitators, the following approaches can be considered:
“Dialogue and engagement: The Enugu State government should engage in meaningful dialogue with relevant stakeholders to understand their concerns and work towards finding mutually acceptable solutions. Open communication channels can help build trust and confidence among the residents.
“Addressing grievances: The government should address the grievances of the traders whose shops were sealed. Ohanaeze Ndigbo demands the unconditional reopening of all sealed Enugu shops, and Governor Mbah should provide compensation or assistance to affected traders, as it can help restore their confidence in the government’s intentions.
“Youth engagement: Engaging the youth in meaningful activities, such as skills training, entrepreneurship programs, and educational opportunities, can help divert their energy towards more productive endeavours. Providing platforms for youth voices to be heard and addressing their concerns can also contribute to reducing the appeal of civil disobedience.
“Empowerment initiatives: Implementing empowerment initiatives targeted at vulnerable communities can help address the underlying socio-economic issues that contribute to civil unrest. This can include providing access to basic amenities, creating employment opportunities, and promoting inclusive policies.
“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 help change public perceptions. This can be done through various media platforms, community gatherings, and educational institutions.
“It is important for Governor Peter Mba to actively involve Ohanaeze Ndigbo and other critical stakeholders in the decision-making process. By working together, engaging in dialogue, and implementing targeted interventions, it is possible to find sustainable solutions that promote peace, unity, and the well-being of the Enugu residents.”
