The Women Wing of IPAN, an NGO dedicated to protecting the interests of Ndigbo in Nigeria took to the streets in a peaceful protest recently against incessant killings and kidnappings in Nigeria by bandits and killer herdsmen in Amawbia, Anambra State recently.
Carrying placards with messages like ‘We Need Peace,’ ‘Stop The Violence’ and ‘Stop The Killing,’ they marched through the streets of Anambra State chanting solidarity songs and calling for unity among Nigerians.
Addressing the press shortly after the protest, IPAN National Woman Leader, Mrs. Juliet Ezenwosu expressed the groups grievance over the continuous unabaited killing and kidnapping which have culminated in the wanton shedding of innocent blood and the destruction of property across Nigeria, Condemning the act in its entirety, Ezenwosu emphasized the need for love and unity among Nigerians in order to move the nation forward.
“It is sad and regrettable that many youths have lost their lives during this period of insecurity and banditry. It is equally sad that the security personnel who are supposed to protect the people are also being killed. I am calling on the federal and states governments to quickly intervene in the situation and enthrone sanity and peace in the country.”
Speaking, another member of the group, Mrs. Mabel Daniel reminded politicians in Anambra State that their political ambition is not worth the blood of any Nigeria. She called on them to embrace peace and the spirit of sportsmanship in the forthcoming gubernatorial election in the state.
In his address, IPAN National President, Mr. Lawrence Onuzulike while calling for the spirit of oneness among Ndigbo, reminded his kinsmen that killing and violence were not part of the Igbo identity. He also called on leaders at all levels in Nigeria to device means of bringing the recent unrest in the country to a permanent end.
Meanwhile, officers and men of the Nigerian Police Force accompanied the group on the exercise to ensure their safety.