By Ella Michaels
A socio-cultural group, Igbo National Union - Worldwide (INU-W), has attributed the political woes of the South East to racism. The organization lamented that despite the enormous sacrifices made by Igbos towards Nigeria's political independence from Britain, the Igbo race has been grossly maltreated and treated as second-class citizens in the nation's socio-political space.
*The Plight of Ndigbo*
Speaking during a press conference after the official unveiling of INU-W, the National Spokesperson, Barr. Ngozi Ogbomor, condemned the sheer marginalization of Ndigbo in the political space of Nigeria. He decried the suffering in Igbo land, which he blamed on racism and bad leadership. Ogbomor stressed that INU-W would help find a solution to the insecurity in the region, enabling the people to go back to their farms and guarantee food security and sufficiency.
*Insecurity in Igbo Land*
The Spokesperson condemned the incessant security threats, particularly the wanton killings, kidnappings, abductions, and raping in Igbo land by criminal elements masquerading as Fulani Herdsmen. He urged every community in Alaigbo to mobilize the youth and organize community vigilantes to checkmate the incursions and illicit activities of these criminal elements, given the government's apparent inability to protect its citizens.
*Call to Action*
INU-W sees the security, peace, unity, and development of Igbo land as sacrosanct. Ogbomor appreciated Igbos in the peripheries who are trying to reestablish their Igbo identity despite obvious antagonisms. He called on all Igbos to collectively strive to regain their freedom and dignity.
*The Purpose of INU-W*
The National Secretary of INU-W, Sir Justin Onyenso, explained that the organization is a socio-cultural and non-partisan group formed as an umbrella body to foster unity, peaceful coexistence, and cooperation among all Igbo people. INU-W's primary objective is to cater to the general interests of Ndigbo without hindrance, helping to reposition the tribe in the nation's socio-political and economic discourse.
*Embracing Igbo Heritage*
Onyenso urged Ndigbo to fully embrace their ancient way of living, particularly in farming and security. He noted that the Igbo people are the most populous and industrious tribe in Nigeria, known for being productive, useful, dynamic, and democratic.
*A Call for Unity*
The event, themed "Repositioning Ndigbo Back To Their Glorious Days Through The Unification Of Igbo All Over The World," was graced by many patriotic and prominent Igbo indigenes. INU-W's formation is a call to unity among all Igbo people, regardless of their location or state of residence.
*The Way Forward*
INU-W is committed to finding solutions to the insecurity and marginalization faced by Ndigbo. The organization will work tirelessly to promote the interests of the Igbo people and ensure their voices are heard in the nation's socio-political space.
*Conclusion*
The unveiling of INU-W marks a significant step towards repositioning Ndigbo in the mainstream of Nigeria's socio-political and economic discourse. The organization's commitment to unity, peace, and development will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the Igbo people.
*A Message of Hope*
As INU-W embarks on its mission, it brings a message of hope to the Igbo people. The organization is poised to make a difference in the lives of Ndigbo, promoting their interests and advocating for their rights in the face of marginalization and insecurity.
*The Future of Ndigbo*
The future of Ndigbo looks bright with INU-W at the helm. The organization's dedication to the welfare of the Igbo people will undoubtedly lead to a brighter future, where Ndigbo can thrive and reach their full potential.
*A Call to Support*
We urge all Igbo people to support INU-W in its mission to promote the interests of Ndigbo. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that the Igbo people are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.
