Governors of the South-East geo-political zone and selected top leaders of Igbo extraction, as well as the clergy and women groups have held a meeting with Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State and Igbo community in that State to make peace between the two parties.
The groups deemed it necessary to organize the meeting following the rumour making the rounds on social media that Governor Wike allegedly ordered security agents to kill the Igbos in Oyigbo local government area of Rivers state over crisis that erupted in the area when hoodlums highjacked the Nationwide peaceful EndSARS protests.
During the meeting some of the Igbo community representatives were given opportunity to air their views on the relationship between them and government of Rivers state, as well the rumor on the social media platform which the Igbo community representatives at the event described as false.
Addressing the gathering, the Chairman of the South-East Governors Forum, Mr. Dave Umahi of Ebonyi State who condemned the rumour said Ndi Igbo should learn to be wise and not to let people without their interest at heart to deceive them.
He asked them to stand and defend the Igbo land and name by being law abiding at all times, as well as respecting their host communities.
Governor Umahi however called on the Igbos in the diaspora to bring their wealth home and assist in the development of their home land.
He appreciated the Governor of Rivers State for carrying the Igbos in the state along in the scheme of things, and encouraged him to do more for the Igbo community in Rivers State.
Governor Willie Obiano represented by his deputy, Dr Nkem Okeke emphasized the need for Igbos to embrace peace and shun anything that could dent the image of the tribe.
Responding, Governor Wike who denied asking security agents to kill Igbos in the state, said he cannot do such atrocity against the Igbos whom he valued so much for their entrepreneurial spirit and contribution to development anywhere they are.
He assured that his government will continue to give the Igbos a sense of belonging in Rivers state as long as they remain law abiding.
Emmanuel Okonkwo reports that others present at the meeting which was held at the Government House Port Harcourt included Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State, President-General of Ohaneze Ndi Igbo worldwide Chief Nnia Nwodo, Leader of Igbo Elders Association, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, former Governor of Rivers State, Mr. Peter Odili, among others.
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