The Association of Igbo Town Unions (ASITU) has decried the spate of insecurity in Igboland.
It lamented that Igboland has now become “hopeless, helpless and lifeless” as a result.
The association, in a statement on Friday by its national president, Chief Emeka Diwe, urged various town unions in the region to make security a priority topic for discussion in town hall meetings.
It said: “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.
“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.
“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.
“The year 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.
“Therefore, in your deliberations, we urge you to instill in our people the consciousness that we can only achieve more by being united and being at peace with ourselves and our neighbours and our hosts rather than singing discordant tunes.
“We must maintain our tested and reliable ‘Igwe bu Ike’ philosophy in our approach to all matters, including national projects.
“There is no doubt that the Igbo are known for hard work, resilience, honesty and the spirit of ‘Onye aghala nwanneya’ (brotherliness).
“These are the characteristics and true identity of the Igbo which must be exhibited at all times.”