The youth wing of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the socio-cultural organisation in the South-East region, has threatened reprisal attacks henceforth on killer herdsmen.
Arthur Obiora, the leader of the youth group, made the threat while reacting to the recent proposal by Miyetti Allah, the umbrella body of herdsmen, nationwide.
The cattle breeding body had requested the federal government to enact laws that would give its members legal backing to take over security in the geo-political zone as a remedy to the nefarious activities of their fellow herdsmen in the region.
But in his reaction, Mr Obiora, who wondered what would have befall his kinsmen living in the troubled North if they made such similar demand, said by having the audacity to make such demand, herdsmen were implying that the youths were incapable of guarding their domain.
He said the proposal also indicated that that unless Miyetti Allah were allowed to have their way, the constant killings, raping and harassment of the people of Igbo land would continue unabated.
The youth leader therefore, warned that since the Miyetti Allah was underrating the ability and capacity of Igbo youth to sufficiently man and protect their land from Marauders, they have resorted to retaliate further breach of peace in the area.
“It has become apparent that the herdsmen are not prepared to coexist with their hosts for their mutual benefit, but to take over their land for the grazing of their cattle,” he said in a Friday statement.
“We (Ohanaeze Ndigbo) wonder what fate would have befallen any Igbo organisation that dared to make such an infuriating, provocative and impetuous demand in the North.
“We will henceforth ensure that any future flagrant breach of peace in Igbo land by anybody or group would be met with stiff penalties and reprisals.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo reiterated that while Ndigbo are committed to playing benevolent hosts to anybody or group that wants to do genuine business and coexist with the people, stiff penalties would henceforth attend any act of brigandage or callous acts from any quarters,” he added.
