Why is it ironic that Okonkwo proposes to use violence to deal with the new converts to Christianity?
O Okonkwo has always preached nonviolent solutions to the clan's problems.
O Okonkwo knows that his people are no match for the colonists' military might.
Doing so would violate the very customs Okonkwo is trying to preserve.
Doing so would make Okonkwo just like the father he has always hated.