The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has urged Igbos to be calm following the life imprisonment sentence handed to the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, for terrorism.

In a statement on Friday, Bianca described the sentencing as sad news, adding that "This is not the outcome we anticipated, nor prayed for, but a reality that is now upon us."

She said, "There comes a time in the history of a people when there is need for calm. I therefore advise Ndigbo, and Nigerians as a whole, that such a period is now! There is utmost need to exercise restraint in response to this situation. All actions which could be deemed incendiary, and which might escalate the situation at home or in the diaspora should be curtailed. A word is enough for the wise."

According to Bianca, the situation requires careful reflection and constructive dialogue involving all Igbo stakeholders, governors, senators, Members of the House of Representatives, clergy, traditional rulers, politicians and business people to engage with government authorities collectively.

"Beating the drums of fury and sabre rattling will only generate diminishing returns, and in the worst-case scenario, yet another wasteland," she said.

Bianca stated that the most effective path toward "resolution of this crisis is dialogue," adding that the quest for mutual coexistence of Ndigbo in Nigeria with justice, equity and dignity is a commitment which requires our collective resolve. She said maintaining peace and order is essential to ensuring the security of all citizens, regardless of tribe or creed.

"I would like to reassure Ndigbo, Nigerians and our foreign partners that there are still prospects of resolving this impasse in a manner that reduces national anxiety and societal trauma. I oblige everyone to remain calm and patient. Over the years, I have continued to engage on these issues with several stakeholders. Now is the time for us all in Ala Igbo to put all hands on deck, and to have a joint engagement, sincerely, involving all the South Eastern States, to seek a political resolution to this matter," she said.

ASA