By Adamu,
Minna
All Igbo groups and associations in Niger State have collapsed into the apex Igbo cultural association, Ohanaeze Ndigbo.
This is part of the measures to bring sanity among the people and ensure they speak with one voice on matters affecting their socio-economic wellbeing.
Besides, Niger State Governor, Abubarkar Sani Bello, has assured of his administration’s readiness to support groups that promote peace and as well, contribute to the socio-economic growth and development of the state.
However, Igbo stakeholders after their unification meeting in Minna agreed that, “All issues affecting the Igbo people in Niger State should be tackled under the umbrella body, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, in line with the mandate from the Ohanaeze national headquarters, in Enugu”.
The communiqué jointly signed by the state President and Secretary, High Chief Emmanuel Ezeugo and Chief Ben Ejiogu, respectively, made available stated that, henceforth, all issues relating to Ndigbo in the state should be routed through the Ohanaeze Ndigbo.
The meeting, which was well attended by a cross-section of Igbo stakeholders from within and outside Niger state, including the Ohanaeze leader representing the 19 Northern states and the FCT, Abuja, Chief A. C. Amaech,i took place at Doko Hotels, Minna.
The communiqué also encouraged all Igbo in parts of Niger state to participate actively in politics by ensuring they get registered, obtain their Permanent Voters’ Card (PVC) and possibly be actively involved in politics.
They also pointed out that, peace and unity were vital and the only panacea without which purposeful development cannot thrive and therefore called for synergy among all Igbo speaking people wherever they find themselves; to love one another and to speak with one voice on matters affecting their existence.
The communique, which emphasized the need for peaceful co-existence between the Igbo and their host as they go about their daily lawful businesses.
