The Association of Igbo Town Unions (ASITU) has decried the spate of insecurity in the Southeast, lamenting that Igboland has now become hopeless, helpless and lifeless as a result.
The association, which made its feelings known in a statement issued on Friday by its National President, Chief Emeka Diwe, charged various town unions in the region to make security a priority as they use the festive season to organise “Town Hall Meetings in our various communities to discuss issues affecting the community, state and the nation.”
Diwe also enjoined all Igbo town unions to concentrate on topical subject matter of politics, and economy, especially as the 2023 general election is around the corner.
“We are all aware that Igboland has become hopeless, helpless and lifeless because of constant threats to life and property, and heightened state of insecurity some of which are alleged to be self-inflicted,” he said, tasking the youths and indeed every individual in Igboland, on the slipping and sinking security situation in the Southeast.
He said: “Our youths and all at home must be at alert and those in diaspora must show deep concern in securing our environment and preserving our timeless heritage in line with our old belief in “Onye ekwela Uzo ga ooo” and being “our brother’s keeper.
“The security of life and property of the Igbo and in Igboland and everywhere must be our individual and collective business.”
He lamented that poverty, ignorance, youthful exuberance and adult delinquencies had now risen to be dictating the tunes and driving the lives of many Igbo people.
“It is time to rethink and apply caution. While we call on all to remain vigilant and proactive, we also request that we focus on doing first things first and right things right.
“The association considers the 2023 general elections a decisive moment for Nigerians especially Ndigbo wherever they are. This is a period when we have to take our destinies in our own hands. 2023 is no doubt an opportunity for Nigerian people to reclaim Nigeria by voting for competence, capacity, capability, equity, fairness, justice, inclusiveness, proven track records, honesty, prudence and deliverable ability.