Sowore rejects foreign intervention in Nigeria, urges self-reliance on security, unity

Sowore rejects foreign intervention in Nigeria, urges self-reliance on security, unity

Human rights activist and Sahara Reporters publisher Omoyele Sowore has warned against inviting foreign nations, including the United States, to address insecurity in Nigeria, stressing that the country must resolve its problems internally. He spoke at the Ohanaeze Ndigbo End-of-Year Celebration held in Akure, Ondo State.

“No one should invite America or any foreign country to fix Nigeria for us. We must fix Nigeria by ourselves and make it work for everyone,” Sowore said, highlighting that national unity cannot exist where one tribe treats another as inferior. He condemned the demolition of businesses based on ethnicity and unequal treatment of terrorists and freedom fighters.

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Sowore reiterated his support for Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), saying, “For five years, nobody has been able to define the crime that Nnamdi Kanu has committed in this country. And that’s why I have been at the forefront of the free Kanu movement.” He emphasized that Nigeria, a creation of the British, must respect all its citizens equally.

In the same event, Onyeoma Chris Ezea, President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Ondo State and the Southwest, called for Kanu’s release and advocated for the election of an Igbo president as a means of fostering national reconciliation. Ezea stressed that the Igbo community has historically contributed to Nigeria’s economic growth and should participate fully in national governance.

Ezea praised Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for appointing three Igbo sons to his cabinet, calling it a demonstration of inclusivity and fair representation. He also urged the Bank of Industry (BoI) to improve access to loans for Igbo entrepreneurs, which would strengthen small and medium-sized enterprises that drive the local economy.

The gathering also highlighted progress on the Ohanaeze community hall project, described by Ezea and Sir Amb. Gregory Iloehika, chair of the project, as a symbol of unity and legacy. The hall, whose construction began nearly two decades ago, aims to serve future generations and reinforce the cultural and social presence of the Igbo in Ondo State.

Sowore rejects foreign intervention in Nigeria, urges self-reliance on security, unity