#EndBadGovernanceProtest: Ndigbo shuns protest, opens markets, demands unconditional release of Kanu | #NwokeukwuMascot
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Markets and Businesses Open in Nnewi and Onitsha Amid Nationwide Protest | #NwokeukwuMascot
Markets, stores, and artisan shops in Nnewi, an industrial town, and Onitsha, a commercial city in Anambra State, were fully operational today as traders and youths largely ignored the nationwide #EndBadGovernance# protest. Despite the planned demonstration, commercial buses and tricycles were seen operating from as early as 6:30 a.m., transporting traders and artisans to their businesses.
The Igbo community has voiced strong opposition to the protests, which are part of a broader ten-day campaign. The United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide, a prominent vocal group, expressed its disapproval in a statement released this morning. According to UNIEC, their stance is driven by perceived discriminatory attitudes towards the Igbo/East and other Nigerians by the protest organizers.
UNIEC's statement, signed by Prof. Obasi Igwe, Director of Media and Publicity, and His Lordship Alpha Justice, Coordinator General, criticized the protest organizers for their silence on injustices specifically targeting the Igbo. The group condemned the lack of condemnation for attacks and threats against the Igbo community, particularly in Lagos, and denounced the ongoing oppression of Easterners.
Instead of supporting the protests, UNIEC has issued a ten-point demand to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, calling for significant policy changes to stabilize Nigeria. Their demands include:
1. Lifting the Economic and Ports Blockade: UNIEC calls for the immediate lifting of the blockade imposed on Eastern ports, which they argue has contributed to de-industrialization and poverty in the region.
2. Addressing Insecurity: The council demands an end to provocative military actions in the East, the reduction of terrorist activities, and the eradication of illegal taxations by armed personnel.
3. Ending Demolitions: UNIEC seeks a halt to the demolition of Igbo properties in Lagos and Abuja, demanding compensation for affected victims.
4. Restructuring Military Representation: They urge immediate reforms to address the underrepresentation of the Igbo in the military and security services.
5. Pursuing Anti-Grazing Policies: The group advocates for the removal of terrorists from Eastern and Middle Belt farms and adherence to anti-open grazing laws.
6. Revising Fuel Subsidy Policies: UNIEC supports a return to lower fuel prices and addresses the high cost of living and inflation caused by escalating fuel costs.
7. Restoring Education Support: They reject the student loan scheme and demand a return to government bursaries, scholarships, and affordable education.
8. Promoting Nation-Building: UNIEC calls for a focus on equitable nation-building and avoiding ethnic favoritism.
9. Releasing Political Prisoners: They demand the unconditional release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and others they consider political prisoners.
10. Restructuring the Country: The council calls for a restructuring of Nigeria to ensure equal representation and development across all regions.
The Igbo community continues to advocate for these changes, emphasizing the need for justice and equitable treatment across Nigeria
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