In a significant development ahead of Nigeria’s Democracy Day, the apex Igbo sociocultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has disclosed that 1,335 repented pro-Biafra agitators are prepared to formally renounce secessionist sentiments and pledge loyalty to the Nigerian state.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Ohanaeze urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to receive the group and grant them presidential amnesty. The organization noted that the agitators, drawn from multiple nonviolent and non-proscribed groups, have chosen the path of peace after over a year of sustained engagement and persuasion by Igbo leaders and international humanitarian bodies.
“This is a historic opportunity,” said Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Deputy President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo. “For the first time since the end of the Biafran War, we are witnessing organized, nonviolent pro-Biafra groups choosing dialogue over agitation. These individuals are ready to participate in June 12 commemorations as loyal citizens of Nigeria.”
According to Ohanaeze, the group’s readiness to shift allegiance follows 16 months of intense behind-the-scenes negotiations. Their demands include a formal presidential pardon, a peaceful resolution to the insecurity in the Southeast, the dropping of charges against them, and political solutions for the release of detained pro-Biafra sympathizers.
Chief Thompson Ohia, National Spokesman for Ohanaeze, said granting amnesty would “send a strong message that the government values peace over force and is willing to address grievances through dialogue.”
The group emphasized that this action could have broader implications for national unity and security, potentially encouraging other militants to embrace peaceful means.
If President Tinubu responds positively, it would mark a rare breakthrough in efforts to resolve longstanding tensions in the Southeast and could help reposition his administration as one invested in reconciliation and democratic consolidation.
As the country marks Democracy Day, all eyes now turn to the Presidency for a response that could shape the future of national unity and conflict resolution.
