Former spokesperson of the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chuks Ibegbu, has urged governors from Northern Nigeria to openly condemn the activities of killer herdsmen alleged to be terrorizing communities in some parts of Southern Nigeria.
Ibegbu, while speaking with journalists on Friday, expressed concern over what he described as the “conspicuous silence” of Northern political leaders and influential figures on attacks reportedly perpetrated by suspected herdsmen in states like Ondo, Enugu, and Ebonyi.
He noted that while he was not in support of the recent jungle justice meted out to some Northerners in Edo State, leaders from the North must also show empathy when Southern farmers fall victim to violent attacks.
“The Northern Governors and their notable people should also show concern when killer herdsmen commit atrocities in the South and other parts of the country,” Ibegbu said.
He maintained that nation-building requires fairness and a balanced response to issues regardless of the region involved.
Ibegbu also took a swipe at President Bola Tinubu over his frequent foreign trips, urging the President to focus more on addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges.
“President Tinubu should stop his frequent junketing abroad and sit at home to solve Nigeria’s terrible economic conditions and hardships,” he added.
The former Ohanaeze spokesperson further warned against the appointment of individuals with corruption allegations as ambassadors, saying such a move could send a wrong signal to Nigerian youths.
“Our youths will now see looting and corruption as a ladder for future promotion if such appointments continue,” Ibegbu stated.
He called for sincerity of purpose and a renewed commitment to good governance across all levels of leadership in the country.