In a detailed statement posted on her official X account on Friday, shortly after returning from a five-day official assignment in Zanzibar, Tanzania, Mrs Odumegwu-Ojukwu said:“This is not the outcome we anticipated, nor prayed for, but a reality that is now upon us.

“There comes a time in the history of a people when there is need for calm. I therefore advise Ndigbo, and Nigerians as a whole, that such a period is now! There is utmost need to exercise restraint in response to this situation.“

All actions which could be deemed incendiary, and which might escalate the situation at home or in the diaspora should be curtailed. A word is enough for the wise.

“This situation requires careful reflection and constructive dialogue involving all Igbo stakeholders, Governors, senators, Members of the House of Representatives, clergy, traditional rulers, politicians and business people to engage with government authorities collectively.“

“Beating the drums of fury and sabre rattling will only generate diminishing returns, and in the worst case scenario, yet another wasteland.”

The Minister emphasised that dialogue remains the most effective path to resolving the crisis, stating that the Igbo quest for mutual coexistence in Nigeria with justice, equity and dignity demands collective resolve and the maintenance of peace and order.

She reassured Ndigbo, Nigerians and foreign partners that prospects still exist for resolving the impasse in a way that reduces national anxiety and societal trauma, and urged all southeastern states to unite in sincere, joint engagement with the Federal Government to seek a political resolution.

“Over the years I have continued to engage on these issues with several stakeholders. Now is the time for us all in Ala Igbo to put all hands on deck,” she concluded.