The National Youth Council of Nigeria, NYCN, Kogi State chapter, says the face off between Nigeria Army and the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, could lead to war.
The group appealed to the IPOB and other agitating groups to calm down and embrace peace and dialogue.
State chairman of NYCN, Oladele Nihi, said the tension in the East may extend to the Northern parts of the country, a development that would result in serious chaos.
He said: “Relics of the Second World War and the events of the Nigerian Civil War still remain sad reminders of the evil consequences of war. We cannot afford to allow a repeat of such a sad event ever again.
“At this juncture, we implore all those calling for a secession to adopt a more civil and peaceful approach in articulating and propagating their concerns, rather than employ violent means or inciting people against each other.
“In the same vein, we remind the Nigerian Army that we are in a democratic dispensation and democracy allows for the freedom expression and association.
“Therefore, the ongoing Operation Python Dance in the South East must be carried out in the most civil manner as possible while observing the laws of the Federal Republic. The Fundamental Human Rights of citizens must be respected at all times.”
The association also called on the youths to always preach peace and avoid using words that would further polarize the system.
“Let us as youths, use all mediums, especially the social media, to educate ourselves on the need for a peaceful Nigeria as we have more to gain as a people”, he added.
Meanwhile, Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has urged security agencies to protect Muslims in the Southeast region before reprisals begin.
