Toba Owojaiye Reporting
The Iwhurohna People’s Assembly (IPA) has raised concerns over a faction of Ohaneze Ndi Igbo’s decision to hold an “Igbo Day” celebration in Port Harcourt on September 29, 2023. IPA strongly dissociates the Ikwerre ethnic nationality from this event and warns Ohaneze Ndigbo to refrain from organizing it in Port Harcourt.
IPA argues that the celebration should be held in one of the five Igbo state capitals rather than in Port Harcourt or any part of Ikwerre land. They view the event as hypocritical and disrespectful to their own martyrs, and they fear it could lead to social unrest. They emphasize that the proposed celebration has garnered significant public attention and could result in catastrophic consequences if allowed to proceed.
The assembly calls upon various authorities, including the Rivers State Government, security agencies, and local leaders, to intervene and prevent the “Igbo Day” celebration in Port Harcourt. They also urge the Ikwerre community to mobilize against the event and request the Ogbakor Ikwerre Cultural Organisation Worldwide to condemn Ohaneze Ndi Igbo’s actions.
In conclusion, IPA firmly opposes the “Igbo Day” celebration in Port Harcourt and calls upon relevant parties to take action to avert potential chaos. They assert their determination to protect their heritage and express their disapproval of this event on their soil.