Groups seek use of Igbo in BBC, VOA, others

By Uduma Kalu

LAGOS—Various Igbo groups and personalities from all walks of life, yesterday in Lagos, expressed concern over the extinction of Igbo language.

The gathering discussed ways to salvage the situation, even as they decried the non use of Igbo language by international media agencies, such as the BBC, VOA, DSTV, among other western media. Almost all the speakers at the event, the public presentation of Functional Igbo: a Beginners’ Guide to Igbo Language written by Mrs Comfort Nwabuogo Ubosi, lamented that their grandchildren in the urban areas and abroad hardly speak Igbo.

The Igwe of Oko in Anambra State,  Professor Laz Ekwueme, amongst others advocated the recognition of women of distinction in Igbo cultures by presenting them with Kolanuts at functions, which is presently not the case. Prof. Anya O. Anya who represented President General of Ohaneze, Chief Ralph Uwechue, Dr. Sylvester Ebigwei of Aka Ikenga, former Information Minister, Mr. Frank Nweke, Mrs Stella Okoli of EMZOR Pharmaceuticals,  all said that it was important that children are encouraged to speak Igbo language.