The esteemed and eminent organization recognized as the United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC), which holds a significant position in representing the interests of the Igbo populace, has publicly declared its distantiation from the widespread protests against poor governance that commenced on the 1st of August across the territory of Nigeria.
Diverging from prior anticipations, commercial operations in the regions of Nnewi and Onitsha, situated within Anambra State, remained active as vendors and the youth appeared to disregard the aforementioned protests, thereby illustrating the council’s position regarding the issue at hand.
Moreover, the council has expressed its disapproval of the student loan initiative, characterizing it as non-viable and an encumbrance, and has instead advocated for a revival of effective free education, which constitutes a fundamental component of Igbo heritage and identity.
UNIEC has underscored the urgency for the federal government to address the adversities faced by Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and his associates, who have reportedly endured detention and maltreatment, and has insisted on their unconditional release and rehabilitation, invoking the necessity for justice and the upholding of human rights.
The council’s demand to President Tinubu highlighted crucial issues requiring immediate interest, consisting of the lifting of the monetary and ports blockade towards the Igbo/East, imposed since 1967, and a give up to the de-industrialization, depopulation, and poverty inside the East.
UNIEC also called for a cessation to the insecurity in the East, inclusive of military and Fulani terrorist assaults, which have led to loss of lives and property, and addressed rampant robberies and unlawful taxations by way of armed personnel, which have further exacerbated the region’s economic woes.
In a further declaration, UNIEC has called for an extensive reconfiguration of the nation, aimed at rectifying the systemic disparities and injustices that have afflicted the country since the attainment of independence.
