Igbo groups in the diaspora have strongly criticised the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, over his recent remarks calling for the abandonment of agitation for Biafra, insisting that claims of an end to Igbo marginalisation are far from reality.
The groups, including the American Veterans of Igbo Descent (AVID), Rising Sun Foundation and Ambassadors for Self Determination, said Umahi’s comments were dismissive and insensitive to the long-standing grievances of the Igbo people. In a joint statement issued yesterday, they described the minister’s position as an insult to the sensibility of Ndigbo.
According to the groups, Umahi does not possess the mandate or moral authority to speak on behalf of the entire Igbo nation, especially on issues bordering on self-determination and perceived marginalisation. They argued that such matters require broad consultation and consensus among Igbo leaders and stakeholders at home and in the diaspora.
The organisations rejected the assertion that the Federal Government under President Bola Tinubu has addressed all forms of marginalisation against the Igbo, noting that concerns over political representation, economic inclusion, security, and infrastructural development remain unresolved in the South-East.
They maintained that agitation for Biafra is rooted in historical and contemporary experiences of exclusion, and cannot simply be wished away through political statements. The groups urged the Federal Government to engage in sincere dialogue with Igbo leaders and agitators rather than dismissing their concerns.
While reaffirming their commitment to peaceful advocacy, the diaspora organisations called on Igbo political office holders to speak responsibly and reflect the collective aspirations of their people, warning against comments that could deepen mistrust and alienation within the region.
