Ondo guber: Asiwaju Ndigbo cautions Igbos against violence, preaches peace
Ahead of the November 16 governorship election in Ondo State, the Asiwaju of Ndigbo in Akure, Sir Titus Ezeorji Umenweke, has warned Igbos residing in Akure and surrounding areas against violence, urging them to approach the election with caution by voting and refraining from electoral malpractice.
In a press statement released through his Special Adviser on Media, Umenweke implored the Igbos to freely exercise their franchise by voting for the candidate of their choice, noting that it is their civic responsibility.
He described Igbos in the state as peace-loving people who prioritise their businesses above other matters, urging them not to disrupt the peaceful coexistence between the Akure people and the Igbos.
His words: “I call on Ndigbo in Akure and other parts of the state that we are here in Ondo State because of our businesses and means of livelihood, and other things are secondary. To those who wish to vote, civility and peaceful conduct are very important to us as the leaders of the Igbo community, and I trust my people will act accordingly.”
Asiwaju added that Governor Aiyedatiwa has worked hard to entrench peace in Ondo State, and no one should hide under the guise of the election to create unrest in the state.
“This appeal becomes necessary because we don’t want a repeat of 1983, when the state was plunged into crisis. We all suffer the consequences because business can only thrive where there’s peace and harmony,” he stressed.
He enjoined all to shun violence and unlawful conduct before, during, and after the election, stating that anyone acting outside the rules of the election will have themselves to blame, as no leader will be held accountable for any criminal actions by individuals.
He thanked Governor Aiyedatiwa and the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladelusi Aladetoyinbo, for maintaining peace among the indigenes and non-indigenes residing in Ondo State, promising to collaborate with relevant security agencies to ensure the security of lives and property.