Calling for a restructuring of the nation and the establishment of additional states in the South-east, the apex Igbo socio-cultural group, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has reiterated its demands.
During the Ohanaeze Ndigbo retreat in Enugu on Wednesday, the group’s President-General, Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, expressed concern over the loss of trillions in the South East due to the discrepancy in state and local government formation, which was done through military decree.
Expressing dissatisfaction with the amended 1999 Constitution, Iwuanyanwu emphasized the need for devolution of power from the federal to state level, granting them autonomy to develop independently without federal interference.
“This move will facilitate the establishment of seaports, railways, and other vital infrastructure for the zone’s development,” he stated.
Regarding the inequality in state creation, the Igbo leader threatened legal action against the Federal Government if the South East was not granted an additional state equivalent to other regions in the country, asserting, “We are mobilizing Igbo lawyers to pursue this cause.”
He further mentioned the willingness to have the new state created anywhere in Igboland.
The Igbo leader also opposed the merger of the Project Development Institute with another scientific institution, emphasizing that the institute’s origin stemmed from the civil war experience.
“Ohanaeze fully backs the implementation of the Oronsaye report but insists that PRODA should remain independent without consolidation with any other institution,” he added.
In a paper entitled “Education: Technical Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Igboland,” delivered by the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nnenna Oti, she advocated for renewed optimism, equal opportunities, and technological advancement in Igboland.
She urged the Igbos to define their identity and pursue their aspirations for greater achievements.
Earlier in her welcome speech, the event’s chairperson, retired Rear Admiral Allison Madueke, emphasized the need for Igbos to take proactive steps towards enhancing the region.
“Without wisdom, progress may lead to setbacks,” Madueke cautioned, underscoring the importance of introspection among Igbos regarding past missteps and the need for rectification.