OHANAEZE NDIGBO PRESS RELEASE – 21st December 2025

The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, finds it imperative to communicate an undeniable and poignant truth to the Southeast Governors. As we approach the festive season, Nigeria continues to grapple with an unrelenting economic downturn that has resulted in unprecedented increases in transportation fares. This unfortunate situation has rendered many intending Igbos in Lagos, Abuja, Kano, Kaduna, and other parts of Northern Nigeria unable to return home to the Southeast to reunite with their families.

‎Even those Igbos who can afford the exorbitant travel costs are filled with trepidation due to persistent and unresolved security challenges across the nation, particularly in the Southeast. It is, therefore, the responsibility—indeed, the moral obligation—of the Southeast Governors to respond with urgency and empathy to these pressing challenges confronting our people.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo implores the Southeast Governors to take immediate action by facilitating the return of our people stranded in various parts of the country. We call for the provision of at least 250 free buses—50 buses from each Southeast state—to transport our citizens home this festive season. Such an initiative would serve as a gesture of goodwill and solidarity, reinforcing the bonds of Igbo heritage and culture during this joyous yet challenging period.

‎Furthermore, we commend the Federal Government for its efforts in addressing insecurity in some communities within Igboland. The collaborative actions of the Nigerian military and other security agencies have helped restore relative normalcy, enabling many Igbos to reclaim their communities after prolonged displacement caused by security threats.

This improved safety has created an opportunity for families to reunite and celebrate the Yuletide season.

‎However, security must remain a top priority. Ohanaeze Ndigbo urges the Southeast Governors, in their capacities as Chief Security Officers of their respective states, to further strengthen security measures, especially around border communities in Enugu, Anambra, Ebonyi, and Imo States. This is critical to safeguarding lives and preventing possible terrorist incursions, particularly from fleeing bandits from the North.

Let it be known that any Governor who fails to take appropriate action—whether through the provision of free transportation or the reinforcement of security—will incur the displeasure of the Ndigbo people. Conversely, those who rise to this call will be recognized and celebrated for their commitment to the welfare of Ndigbo.

Finally, Ohanaeze Ndigbo acknowledges President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s establishment of a military training depot in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State—a landmark development that departs from the long-standing practice of locating such facilities predominantly in Northern Nigeria since independence in 1960. This initiative is vital in reshaping the mindset of Igbo youths, encouraging their participation in military service, and ultimately enhancing security in the Southeast.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for the interests and welfare of the Igbo people. As the festive season approaches, we call on all stakeholders to work collectively for the peace, safety, and progress of the Southeast.

‎E-Signed

‎Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro
Deputy President General
Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide

Chief Chinenyeze Ohia
National Spokesman
‎Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide

‎21st December 2025