Nnamdi Kanu is back in the headlines, ureleased and court case adjourned again.
The Monday sit-at-home saga in the Southeast might once again hit the news despite the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) calling off the sit-at-home order.The continuation of this protest should raise questions about the strategy and impact on the South-East region.
Thiking about this , I believe the real question is: Is this method of protest sustainable, or does it perpetuate a self-destructive cycle?
In my opinion, the approach seems counterproductive. Continuous economic shutdowns, while aiming to draw attention to Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s release, might be causing more harm than good. The rest of Nigeria remains largely unaffected, and sympathy is waning, while some even prefer Nigeria over Biafra.
Perhaps it’s time for a strategic shift. I once stumbled on a video where an Igbo leader declared Mazi Nnamdi Kanu the greatest since Zik and Ojukwu. Like seriously?
First, I think holding our leaders accountable at the state level should come first.
Directing resources to Eastern development, and tackling internal issues could also be more effective. I mean, we want development, but we mostly invest outside our zone? I believe the only way this sit at home protest could be more effective is if all Igbo sons and daughters with businesses across the country (especially in Lagos) observe the Monday sit at home protest. While this could be effective , It will certainly cause more harm than good. The focus should be on creating our region rather than causing unnecessary economic disruptions.
The call to eradicate figures like Simon Ekpa for regional peace adds another layer to the discussion. Although the Monday sit at home protest is a a peaceful one, it still needs a reassessment. Southeast remains among the least developed regions judging by the IGR and foreign investment, and the Federal Government’s indifference indicates a need for a new strategy. This is why I believe in economic development and not just self-determination.
This self-imposed problem, like Monday sit at home protests, deprive our region of the progress we yearn for. Even Mazi Kanu has disapproved of it, raising concerns about the direction and leadership of the movement.
The way forward requires the elders to intervene, let’s stare the protest in a more constructive direction. It’s time to abandon the self-destructive path, legitimize aspirations, and let go of figures like Simon Ekpa, who may be hindering progress more than aiding it.
In essence, it’s time for a change in strategy, it’s time for introspection – a more strategic, focused, and internally constructive approach to bring about the progress and recognition the Southeast deserves.
God bless Igboland.
