BNA Pundits

06/11/2023

04/11/2023

PRESS STATEMENT

Sat, November 4, 2023.

BDFCG Commends Gov Alex Otti On Lokpanta Cattle Market Operations. Calls For More Decisive Actions

1. The Biafra De Facto Customary Government (BDFCG) reiterates its unwavering commitment to the safety and security of Biafrans across Nigeria, especially those residing in Biafraland.

2. It is on this note that the Biafra De Facto Customary Government applauds the patriotic actions of Gov. Alex Otti in unraveling and demystifying the daredevils masquerading as Fulani herdsmen in Abia State, precisely at the Lokpanta Cattle Market. In just a single operation, special security agencies, working under the strict instruction of Governor Alex Otti, unearthed approximately 80 butchered human bodies, 20 headless bodies, and numerous other decomposing human remains. This is most inhuman and barbaric, to say the least.

3. BDFCG is pleased that Gov. Otti has stood up to be counted in the comity of visionary leaders by providing the needed leadership within a short period in office. We believe that the operations will continue as our informants point to other deadly locations where victims of kidnapping are dismembered, and many of our beautiful girls are subjected to all kinds of animalistic treatment by these killer herdsmen.

4. BDFCG had previously issued a press statement dated September 12, 2023, with the title "Open Grazing Belongs to the 16th Century: Must Be Stopped in Biafraland." In line with this statement, Gov. Otti is reminded that the nefarious activities of these killer Fulani herdsmen cannot be curtailed if anti-open grazing laws are not enforced to the letter, and modern ranches are not set up to accommodate genuine farmers in cattle rearing.

5. BDFCG supports the decisive actions of Gov. Alex Otti to dismantle the Lokpanta kidnappers' den and urges other state Governors within Biafraland to ensure that these illegal encampments are eradicated to safeguard the lives and property of our people. We firmly believe that security and lawfulness should be the cornerstone of our society.

6. We reiterate our call for the Abia State Government to take total control of the Lokpanta Cattle Market area, which has been illegally transformed into a crime center. The Lokpanta Cattle Market has morphed into a center for kidnappers, where negotiations and ransom-sharing take place. Unfortunately, the settlers have unlawfully expanded the settlement without the consent of the landowners or the state government. The transformation of Lokpanta into an illegal "Ruga" settlement, a human slaughter slab, and an ungoverned space is a dire situation that demands immediate attention. The market has become a magnet for bandits from the North who relocate to the South-East to continue their kidnapping for ransom, with criminal herdsmen joining them.

7. We call on all state governments to immediately enforce the anti-open grazing law. For those states that have not yet passed the bill submitted by the Alaigbo Development Foundation (ADF) into law, they should do so without further delay, as judgment day is fast approaching.

8. The Biafra De Facto Customary Government stands unwaveringly in support of these actions and remains committed to the security, prosperity, and progress of Biafraland.

Prosper Odinga
Spokesperson, BDFCG
Phone: +19173465419
Email: [email protected]

01/11/2023

PRESS STATEMENT
Wednesday, Nov 1, 2023

Biafra De Facto Customary Government (BDFCG) Recognises the Existence of Biafra and Nigeria.

The Biafra De Facto Customary Government (BDFCG) would like to address recent developments concerning certain anachronism with the name of ‘Biafra De Facto Government’ by certain individuals with their group over the abused theatre arts and trade names on the legacy and noble course for the restoration of the Republic of Biafra.

We categorically State that currently we are Biafrans by customary identity and Nigerians by 'real politik'; hence, our present status of 'de facto' for the restoration of Biafra legal status in quiescence within the comity of nations. This indispensable clarification of the BDFCG name is directed to rebuke any attempt to tarnish BDFCG reputation and undermine her legitimate cause.

The BDFCG is known within the comity of nations as quiescent and by the Nigerian government for her challenging activism in advocating for the self-determination of the Biafran people through peaceful and lawful means. We have consistently championed the rights of the Biafran people, promoting dialogue, diplomacy, and respect for the rule of law. Above all, the participation and representation in the governance of our occupied territories or states. We say no to disfranchisement. Vote and be voted in any political election conducted by Nigeria or Biafra. Most importantly, defend your vote. Our vision is to achieve a just and equitable society where all humanity, comity of nations and Biafrans can thrive in harmony.

However, it has come to our attention that there has been an attempt to adulterate the name ‘Biafra De Facto Customary Government’ (BDFCG) by certain individuals with their group in pursuit of their misguided agenda of violence and deceit. We want to make it abundantly clear that these individuals do not represent the BDFCG, nor do their actions align with our patriotic legacies which our present course is in pursuit of. The BDFCG firmly believes in the power of peaceful dialogue and nonviolent means to resolve conflicts and secure the self-determination of the Biafran people. We reject any association with violence, criminality, or dehumanization of any kind and deceitfully violent imposed actions that scuttle the lives of our people that have for long been pushed to extreme test and challenges.

The unfortunate ongoing mayhem in certain parts of Biafran Provinces, now known as Imo State, has created an unlivable and ungovernable environment that has nothing to do with the Biafran course for freedom and justice. It is deeply regrettable that innocent citizens have been displaced and forcibly relocated due to the activities of these so-called agitators, who have turned those places in Imo State into a hub for criminals.

Furthermore, we are deeply aware that the course of Biafra restoration collides with various Nigeria 'politicking' represented by their desperate politicians in pursuit of personal gains. Of course, the upcoming November 11 Gubernatorial elections in BDFCG Provinces, now known as Imo State, will not be exceptional. The clarion call to Biafrans is to make a difference now by their active participation and representation. Most important you must defend your vote to the best of your ability, though not discounting all the lawlessness involved.

The BDFCG calls upon the relevant authorities, particularly the Biafrans, to take immediate and decisive action to restore peace and security in the affected areas of Imo State. All Biafrans must individually and collectively engage in their civic rights and duties before anyone else.

The BDFCG remains committed to pursuing its objectives through peaceful and lawful means. We will continue to work tirelessly to raise awareness of the Biafran people's legitimate aspirations, engage in constructive dialogue, and advocate for the protection of their rights. We appreciate the ongoing support of friends, well-wishers and the international community who recognize our commitment to a peaceful and just resolution for the restoration of the Republic of Biafra. Together and peacefully, we can overcome these challenges and strive for a better future for the Biafran people.

Prosper Odinga
Spokesperson, BDFCG
Phone: +19173465419
Email: [email protected]

27/10/2023

PRESS STATEMENT
For Immediate Release

Friday, Oct 27, 2023

NATURAL JUSTICE REMAINS THE LAST COURSE FOR NIGERIAN MASSES

The apex court of Nigeria has ruled on the controversial 2023 Presidential Election affirming Bola Ahmed Tinubu's presidency of which Biafra De Facto Customary Government (BDFCG) has archived with another series of controversial judicial decisions that affects the foundation of justice and rule of law.

This ruling has dumbfounded both the opposition political parties and common citizens whose last hope on judiciary has continually been betrayed with continual unhealthy alliance with the executive arm.

It is with great alarm that BDFCG noted the court's decision which was supposed to consolidate the foundation of the nation but only succeeds to erode it by legitimizing illegality and, in effect, promoting an environment of lawlessness.

For far too long, Nigeria has grappled with a lack of law and order, and this recent ruling by the Supreme Court only exacerbates the already questionable culture of injustice that permeates our society. By endorsing the manipulated electoral process tainted with irregularities and disregarding the rule of law, the supreme court has finally sent a dangerous message that undermines the very fabric of the justice system they hypocritically serve to preserve.

It is imperative that we recognize the far-reaching implications of this ruling. This insensitive decision signals a concerning shift towards authoritarianism. It underscores the need for the masses to exercise their right, to scrutinize and assess this judiciary in the context of the challenges they currently face and the credibility of the executive leadership that has been imposed.

The masses, as the ultimate custodians of democracy, have the right to evaluate the decisions of the judiciary, even the apex court in the context of their everyday lives and the impact of their rulings.

The Biafra De Facto Customary Government calls upon all Biafrans across the world to be more organized in pursuit of her right for self determination. President Tinubu can hijack the institutions in Nigeria but nobody can hijack the power of organised people.

Biafra De Facto Customary Government believes in the power of rule of law and justice of the people to bring about the desired societal change and to hold leaders accountable for their actions because democracy ,no matter how bad, allows individuals to speak out when they feel their rights are being trampled upon, and it is this freedom that strengthens the foundations of democracy.

Furthermore, the erosion of justice in Nigeria should be a matter of grave concern for all Africans committed to the principles of democracy and human rights. The struggle for justice and the preservation of democratic values continues, and we stand with the people in their pursuit of a fair and just society.

Prosper Odinga
Spokesperson, BDFCG
Phone: +19173465419
Email: [email protected]

21/10/2023

Do not let those who have of late deliberately started slaughtering innocent Igbo Biafran sons and daughters in cold blood in the guise of freedom (ESN=UNKNOWNGUNMEN=AUTOPILOT=BRGIE=IPONK-IPOB)write your history and define you. It is not in our character to deliberately butcher our own

19/10/2023

PRESS STATEMENT

For Immediate Release

Thursday, Oct 19, 2023

1999 CONSTITUTION FITS NIGERIA POLITICAL ENTITY - Biafra De Facto Customary Government believes in People's Sovereignty

https://bhradvocates.com/post.php?post=138

The fitness of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution is strongly evidenced by the various irresponsibilities emanating from government organs and agencies. This is currently exemplified by the recent deliberation of the National Assembly to procure 360 brand-new Toyota Prado SUVs, each valued at N160 million, for members of the House of Representatives, amidst the 'multi-dimensional' impoverishment of more than two-thirds of the population.

The World Health Checklist for the comity of nations ranks Nigeria as a failed political entity. Unfortunately, stakeholders and abstract citizens continue to display a carefree attitude toward such a consolidated alert. Of course, the frameworks and outcomes for any nation under such conditions are symbolized in the Constitution, with its disastrous chain of results.

BDFCG believes it is high time for us not to shy away from our responsibility. Enough of shame and pride games. Citizens must be able to truly participate and be represented in all matters that have to do with their sovereign rights.

It is a stark reality that the 1999 Constitution, often touted as the supreme law of the land, has served as an instrument of oppression, allowing those in power to perpetuate their interests at the expense of the people. This oppressive constitution has been a driving force behind the excessive centralization of power, reminiscent of the colonial era. In short, it's neo-colonialism in disguise. The central government, from the time of colonial administration to the neo-colonial era, has wielded disproportionate and unchecked power, to the detriment of the Nigerian people. As far back as 1944, the colonial government promulgated the Minerals Ordinance, a decree that vested all subsurface rights and minerals in Nigeria in the central (colonial administrator) and later the federal government. Shockingly, this unjust arrangement persists to this day.

However, enough with the embattled colonial excuses. Despite decades of struggle and governance changes, there has been no orchestrated demand for a comprehensive revision of the ownership of subsurface rights, allowing the central government to maintain its vice-like grip on these essential resources.

The current generation of politicians, unfortunately, has moved even further away from this historical pattern and has instead exacerbated it. The recent irresponsible deliberation by a pivotal organ of the Constitution demonstrates a blatant example of the insensitivity that pervades the corridors of power.

Though often sprouting statements about civic duty and collective awareness, like that of former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili's warning that "you all (constitutional lawmakers) are the biggest threat to our democracy", we must emphasize that a day cometh, and very soon too, when it will be your fed-up Nigerian citizens, not the military, who will rise up and collectively chase all of you grossly irresponsible and insensitive people out of office.

As for BDFCG, the action for remedy is multifaceted. Citizens must be at the forefront to play their civic roles, just like other state organs and agencies - lawmakers, the military, etc.

The time has come for all well-meaning Nigerians to unite in their demand for a constitution that serves the people and not the interests of a select few. Constitutional sovereignty resides in the people, not in juntas, bandits, or the ruling class.

Prosper Odinga
Spokesperson, BDFCG
Phone: +19173465419
Email: [email protected]

14/10/2023

PRESS STATEMENT

For Immediate Release

Saturday, Oct 14, 2023

SOUTHEAST, THE EASTERN REGION IN NIGERIA, OR BIAFRA REMAINS AN INDELIBLE POLITICAL CHALLENGE: BDFCG Warns South Eastern Political Jobbers, Led by Senator Akpabio.

https://bhradvocates.com/post.php?post=137

The attention of the Biafra De Facto Customary Government has been drawn to news reports in which the All Progressives Congress (APC) boasted that they have conquered the Southeastern part of Nigeria (Biafraland) with the defection of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah (YPP).

BDFCG sees such a statement as misleading the general public, and thus, this statement is issued to set the record straight.

Abuja's political buccaneers should note that no politician from Biafran extraction is genuinely representing the ideology of Biafra, which stands for freedom, good governance, equity, fairness, and justice. No politician from Biafraland has been able to mobilize the Biafran masses to pursue and implement the Biafra ideology while still in Nigeria. This is a consolidated political legacy foreseen by the founding fathers of Biafra, as well as that of Nigeria. Sunday Igboho of Oduduwa is right in his struggle, as well as Arewa with its long-time opportunistic strategy anchored on religion is right also.

Unfortunately, Nnamdi Kanu's IPOB messed up a golden opportunity to reaffirm Biafra's legacy. BDFCG is quite cognizant of all these forces working against the establishment of a free, fair, and just society.

Contemporary Abuja politicians have been sponsoring fictitious Biafra groups merely to control the emotions and psychology of the Biafran people. This can be seen in the reasons why various agitating groups have always advised Biafrans not to participate in the electoral process and any other activities that would give legitimacy to the noble quest for self-determination for the Biafran people living in Nigeria.

These Abuja politicians have deceived the people of Biafra for decades, and the day of reckoning is fast approaching. The Biafra De Facto Customary Government wants to clarify that Biafrans have not been participating in the electoral process due to decades of brainwashing. This is why Prof. Chukwuma Soludo became the Governor of Anambra State with just 112,000 votes out of more than 4,000,000 eligible voters in Anambra State alone. BDFCG has come to mobilize millions of Biafrans to be part of the electoral process in pursuit of the Biafra ideology. Those who are masquerading under the noble cause of Biafra's self-determination agenda to commit all forms of criminality must be called to law and order, as BDFCG is for the rule of law.

APC should be reminded that Senator Ifeanyi Ubah of YPP and his fellow businessmen in politics, driven by personal interests, cannot determine the direction the Biafran masses will take. We are not asking anybody for too much! We are not expecting gold from APC or anyone. We are merely demanding equality before the law, good governance, economic and political freedom, true federalism, a merit-driven system, among other principles—not political patronage or appointment. The Biafran people have been surviving and will continue to survive in a free, fair, and just system, which the APC government has been working against. Therefore, luring Senator Ifeanyi Ubah from YPP cannot make any difference unless APC starts today to review the policies and constitution of the failing State of Nigeria.

Prosper Odinga
Spokesperson, BDFCG
Phone: +19173465419
Email: [email protected]

09/10/2023

PRESS STATEMENT
For Immediate Release

Mon, October 9, 2023

BDFCG Charges IPOB to Apologize to Victims of Their Nefarious Policies and Take Responsibility

https://bhradvocates.com/post.php?post=136

In the light of recent statement made by the legal team of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) under the leadership of Nnamdi Kanu indicating their readiness for negotiation, the Biafra De Facto Customary Government (BDFCG) feels compelled to remind IPOB and the general public of our longstanding position against incitation of violence that would contradict the foundational ideal of Biafra.

We have consistently advocated for peaceful dialogue and non-violent means to address the concerns and aspirations of the Biafran people. We firmly believe that resorting to violence and incendiary slogans undermines the very essence of our noble cause and hinders the progress towards a peaceful resolution.

IPOB’s policies represented by various cronies have been involved in numerous human rights abuses. These internal and external human rights abuses have created a climate of fear and intimidation among Biafrans, and have made it difficult for effective and constructive political participation as Biafrans - a worthy strategy gamed away by IPOB.

IPOB's use of violence and intimidation have also criminalized the legitimate and peaceful agitation for Biafra self-determination. This has made it more difficult for Biafrans to organize and advocate for their rights, and has further marginalized them within Nigerian society.

It is regrettable that individuals have been subjugated to inhumane treatments and deaths consequent to absurd rhetorics and policies of IPOB.

The BDFCG mourns the loss of these victims and extends our deepest condolences to their families and loved ones. We recognize the pain and suffering caused by such tragic events, and we reiterate our commitment to seeking justice for all those affected.

IPOB pendulum over her policies as evident from the statements by the legal team is seen further as gimmick to avoid the irreparable damage on the Biafran cause.

Now that IPOB under Nnamdi Kanu is begging to negotiate for peace, BDFCG reminds all that it is only through genuine and inclusive negotiations as well as addressing the root cause of the agitation that will address the legitimate concerns of the Biafran people for now living in Nigeria.

In conclusion, the BDFCG stands firm in its commitment to promoting peaceful dialogue, unity, and justice for all. We urge IPOB to reflect upon the consequences of their past actions and join forces with BDFCG towards achieving a just and equitable system. Together, let us strive for a future where the grievances of the Biafran people are addressed through peaceful means, and where the victims of violence find solace and justice.

Prosper Odinga
Spokesperson, BDFCG
Phone: +19173465419
Email: [email protected]

01/10/2023

Nigeria @63

There is nothing to celebrate about Nigeria's independence. ~ IBNM

✊✊
Use the following link to join us on: 👇👇

Whatsapp: https://chat.whatsapp.com/F4f2eqWFJ1ZHj4YrNllaiB

01/10/2023

PRESS STATEMENT
1st October, 2023.

Nigeria @63: A Reminder to Biafrans: Nigeria is nobody's fatherland

https://bhradvocates.com/post.php?post=135

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

As we reflect upon the current state of our nation and the challenges we face as a people, It is crucial to remind ourselves of the prevailing reality: Nigeria is nobody's fatherland, and it is not a motherland either. Nigeria has become a land that devours its inhabitants. Many have fled, and many continue to flee its shores in droves, seeking refuge and opportunities elsewhere. The exodus is not limited to a particular means of escape; it spans air travel, perilous journeys through the Sahara, and any means necessary.

The nepotistic foundation of the Nigerian state is rotten to the core, and it is this foundation that has led to the country's many woes.

The Biafran people and the ordinary people across Nigeria have suffered greatly under the Neocolonial Administrators masquerading as Democrats since after the genocidal war of 1967-70. We have been marginalized, discriminated against, and even killed. We have seen our land plundered and our resources exploited.

We have seen the Nigerian government fail to provide basic necessities such as security, education, and healthcare. We have seen the country descend into chaos and violence.

On this day, we say to our brothers and sisters in Biafra: do not be fooled by the Nigerian government's propaganda. The prevalence of favoritism, corruption, and systemic inequality have stifled progress, hampered development, and limited our potential as a people. It is imperative that we confront these challenges head-on.

BDFCG calls upon all Biafrans, irrespective of their location, to actively participate in the ongoing efforts to seek internal and external self-determination in the Nigerian state. We must continue to engage in constructive dialogue, promote peaceful coexistence within Biafran Space, and advocate for good governance, transparency, and accountability.

It is through our collective efforts that we can bring about the necessary changes our people desire. We must actively support initiatives that promote equal opportunities, inclusivity, and justice for all Biafrans anywhere they are living .

Prosper Odinga
Spokesperson, BDFCG
Phone: +19173465419
Email: [email protected]

30/09/2023

Igbos are divided people; South-East no longer has solidarity: Okonjo-Iweala

https://bhradvocates.com/post.php?post=134

“If our big problem is ourselves, it means that the solution also lies in our hands” Ms Okonjo-Iweala.

Ngozi Okojo-Iweala, the director-general of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), has urged South-East stakeholders to foster joint leadership to tackle the challenges bedevilling the region collectively.

Ms Okonjo-Iweala made the call in her keynote address to the South-East Summit on Security and Economy, which kicked off in Owerri on Thursday. The theme of the two-day summit is ‘South East Beyond 2023, Time for a Reset’.

Ms Okonjo-Iweala said, “We no longer have solidarity; instead, we are fragmented as a people, and that has made us forget how to support each other. If our big problem is ourselves, it means that the solution also lies in our hands.”

The WTO chief underscored the need for the region to improve its internally generated revenue, keep borrowing down and improve capital expenditures.

“Governors, state legislatures and local government chairs must continuously ask themselves, are we using our FAC allocation wisely, transparently and effectively?” said Ms Okonjo-Iweala. “Can we generate more revenue internally, and how do we do it while motivating our productive sectors and factors? Are we taking on too much debt? Are we even spending the amount borrowed effectively?”

Ms Okonjo-Iweala advised the region to seize the opportunity of privatisation in the electricity sector to look towards solar and gas solutions to improve power supply.

“I want to suggest that we convene a South-East investment forum, not for people from outside the region or abroad but for our own Igbo business people. In this forum, we should examine what is blocking greater investment in the South-East region and what we can do to block these leakages” Ms Okonjo-Iweala explained.

The WTO boss emphasised the need for the region to consider diversifying and attracting investments in the supply chain of pharmaceuticals, fertilisers, labour-intensive industries and digital technology.

She also advised the stakeholders to take advantage of the benefits of digital trade for micro, small and medium enterprises, online education, health and accounting services.

Ms Okonjo-Iweala urged the region to draw from its diaspora resources to build on the health sector.

“I am sure the South-East governors, coming together, can do some financial engineering and find a way to float a South-East diaspora bond or fund to capture some loans and tenured to financing some development priorities,” she noted.

29/09/2023

Obi To South East Leaders, ‘No Economic Activity Can Flourish With Insecurity’

https://igbocommunityradio.com/obi-to-south-east-leaders-no-economic-activity-can-flourish-with-insecurity/

PRESS RELEASE FROM LABOUR PARTY

The Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi has told the people and leaders of the South East region that security is key to any economic activities and therefore wants all hands on deck to stem the rising insecurity in the area.

Obi in a message he sent to the South East Summit on Economy and Security in Owerri, Imo state capital, noted that the Summit is coming at the auspicious time given the disturbing insecurity in the region which has far-reaching implications to the socio-economic and political development in the geopolitical zone.

In the message, Obi commended the Southeast Governors for being thoughtful in organizing the summit and apologized for his absence despite being duly invited due to an inevitable earlier scheduled engagement outside the country.

The LP standard bearer whose message was aired to the summit, urged the leaders to come together and speak up on the way to end the embarrassing insecurity in the region.

“This summit which is focusing merely on security and its economic impact on the Southeast East has come at the most auspicious time. It’s very necessary that as a people we come together, and put our heads together to find a lasting solution to this problem of insecurity in our homeland.

“Our mainstay as a people is business, no business and indeed any other economic activity would thrive amid insecurity.

“If we put our minds to it and work in unity and mutual trust, we will find a way out of this problem that is alien to us.

“Let me therefore commend your excellencies, the Governors of the South East for initiating the idea of the summit and working together to make this a reality.

“Let me urge everyone at this summit and those of us who are unable to attend in person to speak up, contribute ideas, and be part of the initiatives or actions that would be agreed upon at this summit to bring an end to the problem of insecurity in our region.”

The former Anambra state Governor finally prayed for “God to guide us, grant us the wisdom, strength, and courage to take the necessary steps to end insecurity in our homeland so that we can continue to work with our God-given talent and energy to restore peace, tranquility in the South East and indeed our dear country Nigeria”

SIGN
Obiora Ifoh
National Publicity Secretary
Labour Party

PRESS RELEASE FROM LABOUR PARTY The Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi has

29/09/2023

‘Exploitation Of Igbos Must Stop’ — Gov Otti Declares, Urges South East Leaders To Uphold Vision Of Azikiwe, Okpara, Others

Read full text 👇👇👇👇
https://bhradvocates.com/post.php?post=133

29/09/2023

‘Exploitation Of Igbos Must Stop’ — Gov Otti Declares, Urges South East Leaders To Uphold Vision Of Azikiwe, Okpara, Others

https://igbocommunityradio.com/exploitation-of-igbos-must-stop-gov-otti-declares-urges-south-east-leaders-to-uphold-vision-of-azikiwe-okpara-others/

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State on Thursday delivered a passionate speech at the South East Economic and Security Summit in Owerri, Imo State, where he called for an end to the exploitation of Igbos and urged leaders of the South East region to uphold the visionary legacy of past generations such as Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe — the first president of Nigeria, and Dr Michael Okpara — Premier of Eastern Nigeria during the First Republic, among others.

In his address, Otti emphasized the need for collective responsibility in developing the South East region and highlighted the importance of addressing two key issues: security and economic prosperity in the region.

The governor called for justice and the need to end the exploitation of the region by those in power, saying the common man in the South East often feels that justice is elusive, hence the need to ensure that every individual’s life, voice, and freedom is guaranteed within the bounds of the law.

“What we must do over the next 2 days is to look ourselves in the eye and admit that we have indeed not lived up to the vision and dreams of our fathers, the men who built what was once one of the most thriving economic centres of enterprise and productivity in the entire world.

“Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, Dr. Michael Okpara, Dee Sam Mbakwe, Dr. Akanu Ibiam and others achieved so much for this region not because they had all the money in the world. No. What they had was a clear vision of where they wanted the region to be and followed it with the right commitment, made the requisite sacrifices and built the networks and partnerships that enabled them to achieve so much within a very short time,” said the Abia governor.

He expressed concern about the rising incidents of killings and violent crimes in the region and urged the South-East leaders to be intentional about addressing the problems.

“We must work for justice, justice in our communities, justice in our region and justice in the entire land. The common man feels that anything can happen and justice would hardly be done. The extortion and exploitation of our people by those in power must stop and the life, voice and freedom of every individual must count, within the limit permitted by the law.

“We must rise to condemn the rampant acts of bloodletting and other forms of violent crimes in the region. Our culture and tradition regard the human blood as very sacred and we must hold on to that. The desperation to get rich, especially amongst young people, has reached epidemic levels and we must be genuinely worried. Is there anything we can do to make contentment a virtue in our land once again? I will leave that to everyone in this auditorium,” Otti stated.

Furthermore, the governor raised the issue of drug abuse among young people and called for decisive measures to cut off the supply and punish those profiting from it.

According to him, the devastating impact of drug abuse on the region’s youth and the importance of restoring security and sanity in communities cannot be overemphasized.

Governor Otti encouraged investment in the South East, particularly by creating a conducive environment for businesses. He commended industrialists and businessmen who had already invested in the region and urged others to explore the opportunities available.

He urged political leaders to be deliberate about identifying investment opportunities and committing public resources to motivate private investors in th eregion.

Earlier, Otti appreciated his fellow South East governors, the Ohaneze Ndigbo, and the Summit Central Organising Committee, among others for seeking to build a secure and economically robust South East to overcome the region’s challenges, expressing optimism that leaders and stakeholders in the South East would leave the summit with a renewed sense of purpose to address the challenges facing the region and uphold the visionary legacy of the region’s past leaders.

The Abia governor used the occasion to invite attendees to the ground-breaking ceremony of the Abia Industrial and Innovation Park in Owaza in Ukwa West LGA of Abia State sheduled for Saturday.

“The Park, seating on over 1,000 hectares of land, would host multiple layers of businesses including modular refineries, petrochemical and fertiliser plants and several other chains of enterprises that would take advantage of the oil and gas deposits in Ukwa, nearness to Aba and Port Harcourt cities, a seaport in the works, EPZ, twenty four power supply and other components of the larger ecosystem within the community.

“Already, we have secured the support of a major stakeholder to build an innovation and incubation centre within the Park. The facility would train and expose our young minds to the best tools and platforms for their trade. The innovation and incubation centre would specially benefit university students, graduates and start-ups in several ways,” revealed Otti

— Igbo Community Radio Governor Alex Otti of Abia State on Thursday delivered a passionate