…..Rejects Secessionist Agitation: ‘Whatever is Happening to Us Is Self-Inflicted!
In a candid and explosive interview, Joe Igbokwe, a key figure of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State, opened up about the South-East region’s struggles, including the long-debated issue of marginalization, secessionist movements, and the economic challenges Nigeria faces today. Igbokwe, known for his bold statements and unapologetic stance on national issues, did not hold back as he detailed how the South-East, in his view, has contributed to its own challenges.
SouthEast Marginalization: ‘Our Wounds Are Self-Inflicted’
Touching on the persistent claims of marginalization in the South-East, Igbokwe highlighted a deep-rooted imbalance in Nigeria’s geopolitical structure. He pointed out that while other regions boast six or seven states, the South-East remains disadvantaged with only five. According to him, this discrepancy is a major cause of the feeling of neglect and marginalization among the Igbo people.
In a revelation that might surprise many, Igbokwe took a historical approach, recounting a missed opportunity during the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo. He recalled that there was a concrete proposal to create an additional state in the South-East to address the imbalance. However, the dream fell apart due to internal conflicts within the region.
“Enugu wanted Nsukka, while Imo demanded Mbaise. There was no consensus on which areas would cede land for the proposed new state, and in the end, the entire project collapsed. The president at the time, Olusegun Obasanjo, had to abandon the proposal,” Igbokwe lamented.
He didn’t shy away from blaming South-East leaders and elites for this failure, stating, “This inability to reach a consensus is why we are where we are today. The marginalization we complain about is, to a large extent, self-inflicted. Had our leaders worked together, we would have had an extra state today, and things could have been different.”
Rejects Secession: ‘Breaking Away Is Not the Solution’
Shifting his focus to the increasing agitation for secession in the South-East, Igbokwe took a firm stand against the movement. He condemned the idea of breaking away from Nigeria and insisted that the Igbo people would benefit more from remaining part of a united Nigeria. According to Igbokwe, secession would only deepen the region’s woes and alienate the South-East further from national development and progress.
“I am not in support of any secessionist movement. It is better for the Igbo people to remain united with Nigeria. Breaking away is not the solution to our problems,” Igbokwe asserted. He argued that despite the region’s grievances, disintegration would not bring the economic or political gains that some people believe it would.
A Call for Strategic Thinking
Igbokwe’s remarks also touched on the importance of strategic thinking and unity among the Igbo political elite. He argued that the lack of coordination and internal conflicts among the leaders has often sabotaged the region’s progress, using the abandoned state creation proposal as a key example. In his opinion, the South-East has the resources and potential to thrive within Nigeria, but internal discord and missed opportunities have held it back.
“We need to stop blaming the federal government for everything and start looking inward. Our leaders must unite and think strategically if we are to overcome these challenges,” Igbokwe added.
Rising Cost of Living: A National Problem
Addressing the ongoing economic hardship that has seen many Nigerians grappling with the high cost of living, Igbokwe acknowledged that the situation is difficult, but emphasized that it’s a national issue, not just specific to the South-East. He urged Nigerians, including the Igbo people, to be patient and work with the government to find solutions to these problems.
“Every part of Nigeria is facing economic challenges. This is not an Igbo problem; it’s a national problem. What we need now is collective effort, not division,” he said.
Final Words: A Call for Unity and Self-Reflection**
Joe Igbokwe’s explosive interview has ignited fresh debate on the role of the South-East in Nigeria’s political landscape. His message was clear—while the South-East may have valid grievances, its future lies within a united Nigeria. And as far as Igbokwe is concerned, only unity, strategic thinking, and self-reflection can help the region rise above its current challenges.
In his parting words, he left a strong message for the Igbo people: “We need to stop fighting ourselves. If we want progress, we must work together. The world is watching us, and we have to get it right.”
Peoplesmind
