The Apex Igbo sociocultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, on Sunday announced that the seven Igbo-speaking states will not participate in the proposed nationwide June 12 Democracy Day protests.

In a statement obtained by The Guardian, the National Deputy President of the Ohanaeze faction, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, clarified that the decision is not a refusal to engage in civic duties, but a strategic move to protect Igbo lives and properties, which have historically been targeted during such protests.

Isiguzoro emphasized that even if protests were allowed across the Igbo states, the Nigerian government must first address fundamental Igbo concerns. He pointed out that the ongoing insecurity in the Southeast makes protests dangerously imprudent at this time.

The statement read in part:

“After extensive consultations with key Igbo stakeholders, Ohanaeze Ndigbo announces a firm stance regarding the upcoming June 12 Democracy Day protests. This is a strategic decision to safeguard lives and properties, particularly in the Southeast. We will refrain from participating in these protests, and no gatherings will be permitted in the seven Igbo-speaking states until our core issues are properly addressed by the government.”

Isiguzoro further recalled the painful history of Igbo participation in national protests, noting that for over 65 years, Igbos have often been scapegoated and subjected to violence during such events.

He also called for the immediate release of Igbo prisoners of conscience, specifically naming Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and others, accusing the federal government of selective justice by dismissing charges against some individuals while holding others without cause.

The statement concluded with a strong message to President Bola Tinubu:

“Do not mistake our non-participation as weakness. While June 12 marks our collective struggle for democracy, the Igbo nation remains steadfast amid adversity, demanding recognition and justice before engaging further in national protests.”