Northern group make U-turn, withdraws quit notice issued to Igbos

the Northern Consensus Movement (NCM) has decided to retract a 14-day ultimatum it had previously issued to Igbo residents in the North, instructing them to leave the region. This decision follows a consultation with Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, and a meeting between the governor and the leadership of the Umuchieze Cattle Market.

The NCM, an amalgamation of community-based socio-cultural and economically-inclined northern organizations, initially issued the ultimatum in response to Governor Otti’s conversion of the Lokpanta Cattle Market into a daily and non-residential facility. This decision was perceived by some as a quit notice to northerners in the state.

However, the NCM reconsidered its stance after engaging in discussions with Governor Otti and the leaders of the Umuchieze Cattle Market. Awwal Aliyu, the President of the NCM, who led the Umuchieze cattle dealers to the meeting at the governor’s residence, announced the decision to withdraw the quit notice.

During the meeting, it became evident that there were no tribal sentiments attached to the state government’s decision to convert the cattle market. Aliyu praised Governor Otti’s genuine interest in ensuring the security and safety of traders at the market, contrary to earlier allegations that suggested he had asked northern residents to leave the state.

Aliyu stated, “I’m using this medium to say that we have cancelled that 14-day ultimatum that was given to easterners.” He also commended the governor for agreeing to assist vulnerable members of the northern community in finding accommodations outside the market and for holding regular meetings with them to address their well-being.

In his response, Governor Otti reiterated his commitment to making the Umuchieze Cattle Market a daily operation, primarily with the aim of curbing the incidents of killings, kidnappings, and other criminal activities occurring at the market. He emphasized his status as a detribalized Nigerian and his disapproval of segregation and tribalism.

Otti clarified that the government’s earlier directive had been misconstrued and explained that the decision to make the market daily was in the best interest of traders and residents alike. He stressed the importance of security as a precursor to development and expressed his dedication to ensuring peace and harmony for all residents of Abia State.