Hon. Barr. Kingsley Ononuju, Secretary General of Owerri Zone Political Leaders Forum, has requested the postponement of the planned national protest against hardships in the country, especially in the South East in honour of its foremost leader, Chief Dr. E.C. Iwuanyanwu, who passed away a few days ago.
Ononuju urged the youths to respect the Igbo traditions and customs during this trying time, by prioritizing peace and decorum as they exercise restraint in honour of their departed leader.
The full letter reads:
“To my dear people of Igboland And Concerned Nigerians.
“Fellow Ndi Igbo”
“I understand the frustration and anger that has led to the planned national protest against the hardships faced by our nation.
“However, I humbly request that we postpone or excuse our region, the Igbo nation from participating in this protest for now.
“I know that it is our constitutional right to a peaceful protest. Therefore it’s a legitimate conduct, especially when the need arises to so do.
“Nonetheless, I categorically oppose the idea at this trying moment in our dear Nation. We are currently bereaved and grieving over the loss of our foremost illustrious son in Igbo land, the human dynamo, a colossus, the generalsimo , the Aha Eji Aga Mba, President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo worldwide, who passed on just a few days ago. This is a difficult time for us, and our customs and traditions demand that we devote this period for mourning and paying respects to our dearly beloved leader per excellence, Chief Dr E. C. Iwuanyanwu.
“I appeal to our youths to respect our traditions and customs during this trying time. Let us prioritize peace and decorum as we exercise restraint in honor of our departed leader while looking for a positive change in leadership style and praying that Almighty God will touch the heart of our political leaders to proffer a sustainable solution to the suffering masses in our country.
“I believe that our unity and collective efforts will be crucial in addressing the present challenges facing our nation. Let us work together to find a more opportune moment to express our grievances if positive change fails to come to the down trodden in the distant future.
Thank you for your understanding.