Abba Yusuf vs Gawuna: Ohanaeze calls on Igbos in Kano to shun proposed protest

A call has gone to the Igbo residents in Kano State to remain calm in the face of political uncertainties and tensions in the northern Nigeria state.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, made the call on Saturday ahead of the pro and anti-Appeal Court judgment that sacked Governor Abba Yusuf and declared Nasiru Gawuna as the duly elected governor of the state.

The Kano state police earlier announced that the members of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) are using various media platforms to mobilise people and planning to enter the streets on Saturday, November 25, 2023, to stage a protest against the Kano State Governorship Appeal Court’s verdict.

In response to the planned rally, the apex Igbo body appealed to all Igbo residents to take preventive measures, including closing down their businesses, saying “this will help safeguard Igbo properties and prevent the destruction of their goods within Kano State.”

A statement by Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, factional Secretary-General of Ohanaeze reads partly: “We appeal to the security agents to ensure that Igbos are not made sacrificial lambs to the potential fallout of these two protests in Kano today.

“Distress calls from Kano indicate that the political godfathers of the rival parties must restrain their followers and encourage them to abide by the law, maintaining peace and order. Failure to manage these Kano rival protests appropriately could jeopardize our democracy.

“Ohanaeze Ndigbo, through its communication channels, emphasizes to Igbos in Kano that political abstinence remains crucial in securing their investments and properties. We implore all Igbo residents to prioritize their safety, exercise restraint, and avoid engaging in any activities that may escalate the current tensions.

“We must protect our interests and preserve the peace. By remaining neutral, we demonstrate our commitment to the safety and prosperity of our people. Ohanaeze Ndigbo urges all Igbos in Kano to prioritize their well-being and contribute to the stability of the region.”