By Emmanuel Odekina Iyede Aidoko Onuche
Idah, Kogi State, Nigeria
December 4, 2024
The people of Kogi East have strongly condemned the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) for including the Igala nation in their proposed “United States of Biafra” without consulting them. The criticism came after IPOB’s controversial plan for a 40-state Biafran nation went viral in a recent video, which was met with backlash from the Eastern Senatorial District of Kogi State.
Rejection of IPOB’s Agenda
Speaking on behalf of the community, the Igala Youth Council issued a statement denouncing IPOB’s actions as not only unrepresentative but also divisive. The group expressed outrage over the inclusion of the Igala nation in IPOB’s secessionist agenda, noting that they were neither consulted nor invited to partake in the discussions.
In an emergency meeting on December 1, 2024, the council declared IPOB’s proposal a “joke taken too far,” emphasizing that the Igala people have no part in IPOB’s vision of a breakaway Biafran state. The group’s national publicity secretary, Michael Achor Joshua, asserted that the Igala nation rejects being dragged into IPOB’s “madness.”
A Call for Good Governance
Joshua further clarified that the Igala people’s primary interest lies in securing good governance and developmental progress within the Nigerian state. He reaffirmed their commitment to the unity of Nigeria, rejecting any attempts to label them as enemies of the state based on IPOB’s uninvited actions.
“We are not part of this. We demand good governance for all Igala people within the Nigerian federation, not inclusion in IPOB’s secessionist plans,” Joshua emphasized.
Criticism of IPOB’s Methods
The Igala Youth Council also criticized the methods of IPOB, particularly the imposition of a weekly “sit-at-home” order, which has disrupted life and the economy in the Southeast region. While some view IPOB’s agitation as a legitimate cry for self-determination, the council expressed concerns over its negative impact on national unity and stability.
A Call for Calm and Unity
In conclusion, Joshua called on Igala people both within Nigeria and in the diaspora to disregard IPOB’s claim of having a stake in the Biafran cause. He urged them to continue their lawful activities and remain steadfast in their commitment to a unified Nigeria. The statement ended with a plea for all Nigerians to focus on the greater good of national cohesion, rejecting divisive agendas.
The Igala Youth Council’s statement marks a clear stance against any secessionist movement that seeks to undermine the territorial integrity of Nigeria and the peaceful coexistence of its diverse ethnic groups.