Orji Kalu: Nigerians must not allow a repeat of civil war

Orji Uzor Kalu, chief whip of the senate, says Nigerians must not allow a repetition of the civil war.

The Nigerian civil war was between 1967 and 1970.

In a statement on Tuesday, Kalu said the people of the south-east are not known for attacking public infrastructure, adding that it is not the best way to express grievances.

The former Abia governor said the region needs infrastructure and not hostilities.

“The policemen and military officers killed are fathers, mothers, husbands, wives, children and relatives,” he said.

“Anyone that has lost a close relative knows what it means to lose parents or children. I am more concerned about the lives lost because of the trickle down effects on families.

“Our people are not known for burning homes to punish enemies. Destroying police stations and infrastructures can never be the best path to express grievances. Whenever the 1967 – 1970 civil war is mentioned, it’s an emotive experience for any peace loving Nigerian not just an Igbo man.

“We should not either by words or actions pursue a repetition of that horrible genocide. We should come to understand that every war ends on a table. Instead of destruction before coming to the table, is it not wiser to come to the table and avoid destruction? We need infrastructure, we need investments, we don’t need hostilities.

“So we are pleading with you to stop and embrace peace.”

The chief whip asked the federal government to hold a national dialogue over the rising tension in the country.

“Our unity is our strength and can forever live in unity notwithstanding the diversity in culture, religion and tongues. A dialogue that has all stakeholders on the table and the president chairing it will go a long way in dousing tension across regions,” he said.