…Threatens to seek self-rule if …

…. Demands Kanu’s immediate release

…. Renews call for Nigeria’s restructuring

By Steve Oko

World Igbo Congress (WIC), has expressed grave concern over the spike in Igbo-phobia and unprovoked attacks against Ndigbo especially those living outside Igbo land.

The group noted that after 2023 elections, Igbos have been attacked by other regions.

WIC, in a communique after its 2024 annual convention held in the United States of America, threatened to seek peaceful self-determination for the Igbo nation if the unwarranted barrage of attacks, exclusion and injustice against them did not cease.

It also demanded immediate and unconditional release of the detained Leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, arguing that his release has become imperative for the restoration of peace in the South East.

WIC called on the Nigerian government and international bodies to take immediate and decisive action to protect Ndi Igbo from discrimination and violence, including online hate campaigns.

The Congress reiterated the need for equitable treatment, political inclusion, and economic empowerment of Ndi Igbo within Nigeria, including fair representation and the protection of Igbo rights and interests.

It also urged Igbo communities worldwide “to remain vigilant and united in confronting these challenges.”

WIC called for the immediate implementation of a robust security strategy aimed at protecting Igbo lives and properties in Nigeria and beyond, aligning with the proposals from Anya Ndi Igbo.

The communique jointly signed by Sir Festus Okere, and Sir Chris Ogara Chairman and Secretary of WIC respectively, also threw its weight behind the clamour for restructuring of Nigeria, and devolution of power from the centre to the federating units.

The communique said that the congress with the theme: “Ka Anyi Jikota Aka Dozie Alaigbo” (“Let Us Unite to Rebuild Alaigbo”), was attended by delegates, leaders, and stakeholders from various Diaspora organizations.

According to the communique made available to Vanguard on Tuesday, “the theme of the congress resonated profoundly with the growing urgency to confront the existential threats facing Ndi Igbo in Nigeria and  the diaspora and to forge a united front in pursuit of selfpreservation, progress, and justice.”

It said the Convention culminated in key resolutions, underscoring WIC’s commitment to the advancement, security, and protection of the Igbo people worldwide.

It read in part:”The aftermath of the 2023 Nigerian elections unleashed a wave of intensified ethnic hostility, specifically targeting Ndi Igbo. This hatred manifested in acts of destruction and seizure of Igbo owned property, as well as physical harm across the country.

” The specter of Igbo-phobia has intensified and diversified amongst several other Nigerian ethnic groups within and outside Nigeria, finding expression in chilling calls like “Igbos must leave Lagos,” and “Kill Igbos wherever they reside”, echoed not just by fringe elements but also by some political figures, elites, and members of the ruling class.

“Even among the most educated sectors of Nigerian society, where ethnic intolerance should be condemned, there has been tacit complicity in the hatred and marginalization of Ndi Igbo.

“The political exclusion, economic exploitation, and systematic violence targeting Ndi Igbo are unacceptable to a people who have played a pivotal role in the growth and development of Nigeria. These injustices demand an immediate and organized response from all Igbo, at home and abroad.

“The reality of Igbo persecution cannot be denied. The escalating violence, economic sabotage, and social exclusion aimed at Ndi Igbo are part of a calculated program to weaken and ultimately carry out the Second Genocide against The Igbos.”

The communique quoted the WIC Chairman as “encouraging with a sense of urgency, ‘The Aku Ruo Ulo’ (Invest in Alaigbo) philosophy that has  become the 11th Commandment for Ndi Igbo – an essential survival strategy that calls for Ndi Igbo to prioritize investment in their homeland.”

“The imperative is clear: we must fortify Alaigbo economically, politically, and socially in response to the systemic and existential threats we face. This 11th Commandment underscores the non-negotiable need for Ndi Igbo to build their homeland into a bastion of strength and resilience, ensuring that Igbo land remains a secure refuge for its people.

“The time for passive endurance has ended. The Aku Ruo Ulo strategy is not just a reaction but a proactive, coherent response to the growing persecution of Ndi Igbo. It is time to channel our collective strength into rebuilding our homeland, empowering our communities, and ensuring that Igbo prosperity continues to flourish.”

Restates call for restructuring of Nigeria

The Congress restated its support and call for the restructuring of Nigeria, arguing it is the only panacea to the countries many woes.

It called for sustained restructuring dialogue, and advocacy to ensure peace and harmony within the various ethnic-nationalities in Nigeria.

However, in the event of continued marginalization and Igbo-phobia, WIC affirmed the need to explore peaceful self-determination, referencing examples such as the peaceful dissolution of countries like Yugoslavia and the formation of nations like Bangladesh and Pakistan.

“Restructuring Nigeria, WIC believes, offers a viable path to equity and inclusion. Decentralized governance, fair resource allocation, and inclusive political representation can provide the conditions necessary for Ndi Igbo and all ethnic groups to thrive and co-exist peacefully.”

” However, should Nigeria continue to fail in delivering justice and equity, the Congress reaffirms that the Igbo people must consider peaceful self-determination, as exemplified by other nations that have successfully sought their independence.

“We declare that Ndi Igbo are no longer willing to be passive victims of oppression. We will stand united in our resolve, embrace the 11th Commandment of Aku Ruo Ulo, and safeguard our future with collective action.

“We call on all Igbo, wherever they may be, to remain vigilant, resilient, and committed to the preservation and protection of our people and heritage.”

Demands immediate release of Nnamdi Kanu

WIC, again called on President Ahmed Tinubu to immediately release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

The Congress argued that “his release is not only a legal and moral imperative but also a necessary step toward justice and reconciliation within Nigeria.”

The Congress also urged the Southeastern Governors to form State Vigilantes in collaboration with

Town Unions, ensuring a coordinated security effort across all SE regions.

It also called for the establishment of Global Igbo Centers in key cities of the world in support of the Igbo values reorientation plan.