The Nigerian human rights lawyer and lead counsel to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has commended the restoration of peace and calm in the South-East region.
Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, who holds the title Dunu–Ezeugosinachi, made this known in his Midweek Musings on Wednesday, titled: “The Return of Calm in Alaigbo: A Triumph to Cherish, Not a Licence to Relapse.”
He described the development as gladdening, noting that people in the region can now go about their lawful activities without fear or intimidation from any quarter.
According to him, “It is no longer a matter of conjecture, but an evident and reassuring reality, that the entire South-East region has, to a commendable extent, regained a climate of relative peace and civil order.”
He further stated that this development is not incidental, but rather reflective of the intrinsic values of the Igbo nation,values deeply rooted in enterprise, communal harmony, resilience, and an abiding respect for the sanctity of life and lawful coexistence.
“This peace, though once disrupted by forces whose calculated objective was to destabilise the region often, regrettably, aided by misguided elements and emboldened by unscrupulous individuals in positions of authority who revel in the spoils of chaos,has now been painstakingly reclaimed through deliberate, coordinated, and principled efforts of critical stakeholders.
“The current stewardship of the Global Peaceful Restoration—genuine lovers of freedom, steadfastly united by an unwavering commitment to order, justice, and social equilibrium is eminently deserving of the highest commendation.
“I must also, with measured emphasis, acknowledge the remarkable contributions of those at the helm of certain security agencies, particularly the current leadership of the State Security Service. Their tenure has been distinguished not only by operational professionalism but also by a rare adherence to civility, restraint, and refreshingly apolitical engagement.
“Unlike what obtained in the past—when the situation resembled an ethnic war against this region, and when certain approaches unfairly cast the average Igbo youth under suspicion, often culminating in arbitrary arrests and the all-too-familiar euphemism of ‘enforced disappearances’ the present methodology reflects a paradigm shift grounded in respect for constitutional liberties and human dignity. One might even say, with cautious optimism, that decency has staged a quiet but notable return.”
Ejiofor noted that the current atmosphere across the region speaks for itself, as Igbo youths, women, and citizens across all strata now freely engage in lawful pursuits. They associate openly, exercise their constitutionally guaranteed rights, and go about their daily lives without the pervasive fear that once defined a troubling era an era often reinforced by hostile security practices and dangerous ethnic profiling.
He emphasised that the transformation is neither accidental nor superficial, but the result of deliberate policy recalibration and humane security governance.
According to him, it also demonstrates that the chaos previously witnessed was, in part, driven by actors who benefited from sustained instability.
“Nevertheless,” he cautioned, “it would be both naïve and imprudent to assume that this hard-earned peace is beyond threat. There remain individuals and interests who, either out of discontent or less noble motivations, may yet attempt to reintroduce instability and discord into the region.
“Peace, as history repeatedly reminds us, is often most vulnerable at the very moment it is proclaimed ‘total.’ It is therefore imperative that all relevant authorities and stakeholders remain vigilant, proactive, and unwavering in their commitment to preserving this fragile yet promising stability.”he added.
He stressed that the lessons of history must neither be forgotten nor ignored, warning against any relapse into an era of fear, uncertainty, and regression,one from which the region has only recently and painfully emerged.
Rather, he urged that the prevailing peace be consciously nurtured, strategically protected, and collectively sustained as the indispensable foundation for socio-economic advancement and generational prosperity.
He added that Alaigbo is gradually reclaiming its lost glory and emerging as a model of recovery.
“Indeed, peace is not merely the absence of conflict; it is the presence of justice, equity, and purposeful governance. Having attained it, we must now institutionalise it, lest it quietly slip through our fingers while we congratulate ourselves prematurely.”he stated.
Ejiofor stated that the restoration of peace in Alaigbo is both a triumph and a responsibility.
He said it places a solemn duty on leaders and citizens alike to guard, preserve, and strengthen it.
“With unity of purpose and fidelity to the rule of law, this peace shall not only endure but flourish from generation to generation.
“May the Almighty continue to guide and preserve Alaigbo.”he added.
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