Aninze Samuel The reluctance of many Igbos to participate in the ongoing protests in Nigeria is influenced by a combination of historical, cultural, and strategic considerations:
1. **Past Experiences with Protests**: The Igbos, particularly those in the South-East region, have historically been wary of large-scale protests due to previous experiences where such movements led to significant violence and repression. For example, during the #EndSARS protests in 2020, some areas in the South-East experienced severe military crackdowns, leading to casualties and destruction.
2. **Security Concerns**: There is fear that the protests could be hijacked by elements with ulterior motives, leading to violence and instability. The United Nations, as well as local leaders, have warned of the potential for such outcomes, which has made some groups, including those representing Igbo interests, hesitant to support the protests [[❞]](https://www.vanguardngr.com/2024/07/un-warns-of-potential-hijacking-of-planned-protests-against-economic-hardship-in-nigeria/).
3. **Focus on Regional Interests**: The Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, and other South-East leaders may prefer to focus on regional issues and dialogue rather than engaging in nationwide protests that could escalate tensions. These leaders often advocate for addressing grievances through political means rather than through street protests, especially when there is a risk of these protests being seen as confrontational.
4. **Caution Against Escalation**: Some Igbo leaders believe that the protests could worsen the already tense situation in the country. They emphasize the importance of stability and caution against actions that could lead to further economic and social disruptions [[❞]](https://www.vanguardngr.com/2024/07/un-warns-of-potential-hijacking-of-planned-protests-against-economic-hardship-in-nigeria/).
These factors contribute to a more cautious stance among the Igbos regarding participation in the ongoing protests.
Respect to igbos