A group, the Ndigbo Historical Initiative (NHI), has called for support for Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo in a bid to end the Monday sit-at-home.
In a statement by its Executive Director, Juli Iregbu-Ihejirika, the group recalled that Soludo, during his swearing-in, had called on members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and other such groups to lay down their arms and join him in the task of state-building.
“The new governor stretched out his hands of fellowship from day one. He asked IPOB and other groups to come out of the forests and embrace dialogue. He said he’s prepared to sit down with them.
“Unfortunately things are not going according to plan. During the week a few police stations were attacked and a local government secretariat in Nnewi was set ablaze.”
NHI frowned at the ugly development.
It added: “It is in the interest of all residents of Anambra and Igbos, in general, to ensure that the new government in Awka works.
“We urge the governor not to be weary or relent over his programmes because of the antics of a few.
“Anambra is bigger than any individual. Our appeal like that of the governor is for the tormentors to have a change of heart and embrace dialogue.
“Let’s together see if Soludo will find a solution to the issues raised by the various self-determination groups before deciding what other options are available.
“We, however, hope that the governor will be proactive and set up measures, including strong counter (vigilante) teams working with the police to stop the gunmen and arson in the state.
“As a renowned economist, Soludo should equally unveil his economic programmes which should assist take boys off the streets in time to prevent them from doubling the numbers of those who bear arms against the state.
“Other Southeast states should join the crusade to end sit-at-home, arson and murders in the region.
“The economic, political and social losses suffered by the region cannot be quantified.
“There must be concerted effort going forward to give peace a chance and allow governments like Soludo’s to find solutions to our collective existential threats.”
