The Northern Consensus Movement (NCM) has officially withdrawn the 14-day ultimatum it had earlier issued to Igbo residents in the North, following a consultation with Abia State Governor, Alex Otti.
The NCM, an amalgamation of community-based socio-cultural and economically-inclined northern organisations, had originally issued the ultimatum in response to Governor Otti’s decision to convert the Lokpanta Cattle Market into a daily and non-residential one, which was interpreted by some as a quit notice to northerners.
News About Nigeria reports that the NCM announced the withdrawal of the quit notice after a meeting that Governor Otti had with the leadership of the Umuchieze Cattle Market.
Awwal Aliyu, the group’s President, led the delegation of Umuchieze cattle dealers in this meeting, where it was realised that the state government’s decision had no tribal sentiment attached to it.
They came to understand that Governor Otti’s decision was aimed at improving the security and safety of the traders at the cattle market, contrary to the earlier allegation that he was asking northern residents in the state to leave.
Aliyu, in making the announcement, said, “I’m using this medium to say that we have cancelled that 14-day ultimatum that was given to easterners.”
He commended Governor Otti for his commitment to assisting the vulnerable members of the northern community by facilitating the renting of accommodation outside the market and holding regular meetings with them regarding their well-being.
Furthermore, Aliyu urged northerners in the state to be law-abiding, respect constituted authorities, and be good ambassadors of the Northern people in whatever communities they reside.
Governor Otti reiterated that his primary concern was to end the violence, kidnappings, and other criminal activities taking place at the Umuchieze Cattle Market.
He emphasised that he is a detribalised Nigerian and that he does not condone segregation or tribalism.
The governor clarified that the government’s earlier directive was misunderstood and emphasised that the goal of converting the market into a daily operation was to enhance security for the benefit of traders and residents.
He stressed that he wanted everyone living in Abia State to enjoy peace and harmony, stating that in governance, the focus should be on providing service to the people and avoiding the influence of religion and ethnicity.
