Former Presidents-General of the Ohaneze Ndigbo, John Nnia Nwodo has called on Igbos to move on from the Nigerian Civil War bitterness affecting their political relationships with other regions in the country.
Mr Nwodo noted that there was a need for dialogue and negotiations to drive progress and peaceful coexistence.
“We have for too long allowed the bitterness of the war and its lingering feelings to dictate our political relationships,” he stated on Tuesday.
Speaking during the ‘International Research Conference on 50 Years Post-Nigeria Civil War’ organised by the Centre for Health and Allied Legal and Demographical Development Research and Training at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University (NAU), Awka, Mr Nwodo also acknowledged the frustration of Igbo younger generation is experiencing.
He noted, “The young men and women who were not part of the war are frustrated by the impasse.
“We do not want any war. We have shed enough blood without producing corresponding political results.
“Fifty years after the civil war, the time is now overripe for a fresh approach, including discussions and fruitful negotiations,” said the Ohaneze chieftain.
Also, Bianca Ojukwu, the widow of the ex-Biafran warlord Odumegwu Ojukwu urged the federal government to respect and adhere to the principles of the federal character to ensure equity in appointments.
In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of NAU, Charles Esimone, said the conference would bring about useful ideas and recommendations toward building an enduring peace in the country.
(NAN)
