Akpabio asks Igbo youth not to engage in armed struggle against Nigeria
Senate President Urges Peace in South East During Funeral
Ikem, Enugu State — Senate President Godswill Akpabio called for peace and guidance for the youth of the South East during a funeral service for Sir Albert Ikechukwu Nnamani, the former Administrative Secretary of the Oil Mineral Producing Area Development Commission. The event took place in Ikem, Enugu State.
In a statement released to journalists in Abuja, Akpabio emphasized that development can only flourish in a peaceful environment and urged the Ndigbo community to mentor younger generations, advising them against armed struggles.
“For Ndigbo, I plead with you to maintain peace and look after today’s youth,” Akpabio said. “They lack understanding of politics and development. True development can only occur in a peaceful setting.”
He warned that attempts to assert independence through armed conflict would be futile, asserting that state power would ultimately prevail.
The Senate President also assured the public that the parliament is committed to enacting equitable legislation for the South East, stating, “We are prepared to make the right laws for Ndigbo, aiming to create at least one additional state.”
Akpabio acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to address historical grievances, noting, “The administration has made efforts to ensure Ndigbo are not marginalized. However, everything must be negotiated.”
He stressed the importance of pursuing rights through peaceful means, stating his desire for progress within this generation. He expressed concern about the impact of the recent sit-at-home order on the local economy, particularly in Onitsha.
“I am not pleased that the economy has been adversely affected by the sit-at-home situation. Ndigbo are known for their enterprise,” he said, reflecting on the hardships faced by the region following the Biafra conflict.
He also remarked on the historical neglect of reconstruction efforts after the war, recognizing the need for justice and promising that “justice shall be done to Ndigbo in our lifetime.”
As part of his tribute to Nnamani, Akpabio lauded his contributions, stating that he carried out his responsibilities with dignity and played a key role in the development of the Niger Delta.
“Many once believed promises made to the Niger Delta were never fulfilled, leading to frustration among the people,” he said. “However, those grievances belong to a previous era.”
