Ohanaeze Ndigbo berates Edwin Clarke’s call for removal of 3 states from NDDC
By Chinedu Emeruwa Chinedu
The highest Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, on Wednesday, blasted the leader of Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Edwin Clarke over call for removal of some states from the Niger Delta Development Commission.
Recall that Clark had on Tuesday called on President Bola Tinubu to expel Abia, Imo, and Ondo from nine states that make up the NDDC, through amendment of the 2000 Act establishing the commission.
According to him, the inclusion of the three states in the commission was a political aberration.
Reacting, Ohanaeze Ndigbo in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Secretary General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, described Edwin Clarke’s call as an affront to national cohesion.
The organisation regretted that its disheartening that Ijaw leader would resort to such parochial barbarism and satanic rhetoric instead of promoting unity and inclusivity.
According to the group, “He chooses to foster division and animosity among Nigerians.
“His views do not reflect the position of the Niger Delta region or the values of a united Nigeria
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo expected Chief Clarke to advocate for the gazeting of former President Buhari’s recognition of the Old Anambra River Basin as oil-producing states.
“This recognition includes Anambra, Enugu and Kogi State which should be rightfully incorporated into the NDDC
“We believe that such a move would engender economic development and create opportunities for all Nigerians.
“It is disappointing to see a leader of Chief Clarke’s stature express personal views that do not reflect the collective aspiration of the Niger Delta region”,Ohanaeze insisted.
While reiterating its firm commitment to national cohesion, and the promotion of a Nigeria where every citizen is accorded equal rights and opportunities, Ohanaeze called on well meaning Nigerian citizens to reject and condemn divisive rhetoric that undermines national fabric.
The apex Igbo umbrella body urged President Bola Tinubu and other leaders to rise above such divisive discourse and work towards fostering unity, inclusivity and economic development for all Nigerians.
