A former National Publicity Secretary of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chuks Ibegbu, has regretted that the Federal Government treats Nnamdi Kanu, IPOB and other agitators different from bandits, Boko Haram and other terrorists.
Ibegbu said this while speaking with DAILY POST in reaction to the declaration of bandits as terrorists.
Recall that Justice Taiwo Taiwo of a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, had declared banditry as an act of terrorism in all parts of Nigeria.
The Judge also outlawed the activities of some groups linked with acts of banditry.
Justice Taiwo, in a ruling on an ex-parte application filed by the federal government specifically declared the activities of the “Yan Bindiga Group and the Yan Ta’adda Group and other similar groups” in any part of the country, especially in the North West and North Central geo-political zones as “acts of terrorism and illegality”.
The declaration of bandits as terrorists had stirred reactions as most Nigerians have continued to question why President Muhammadu Buhari is yet to declare bandits same.
Ibegbu in his reaction, noted for unity to exist, everybody must be treated equally, adding that agitators are patriots and should not be seen as terrorists.
“It’s obvious that the Federal government is treating the issue of banditry with kid gloves and it’s very clear to everybody.
“Federal Government is treating them (bandits) with levity and is more concerned with Nnamdi Kanu, IPOB, and pro-Biafra agitators. Any little issue in the Southeast would be taken with all seriousness, but bandits, kidnappers, marauders, and Boko Haram are treated with kid gloves.
“This is not how to move a country forward or how to unite the country. Everybody should be treated equally.
“Those agitating are patriots. If you are agitating for something and you are not a bandit, killer, but pushing for fairness; you should not be seen as a terrorist.
“To be treating those killing and abducting people for ransom with kid gloves shows a high level of nepotism in the system” Ibegbu said.
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