The Eze Igbo 1 of Maitama, Abuja, HRH Eze Amb. David Kingston Okey-Dede has urged the federal government to take the calls for self-determination by Biafran agitators seriously and address their marginalization concerns through constructive dialogue.
He made these remarks during the 2024 New Yam Festival, an event organized by his office in collaboration with the Ohaneze Ndigbo and the Igbo Community in Maitama on December 7, 2024.
The traditional ruler advised Ndigbo both at home and in the Diaspora. "I bring you this message with a heart filled with both pride and concern. Pride in our resilience, resourcefulness, and rich heritage that define us as a people of dignity and innovation.
"However, I am also concerned about the rising challenges that threaten our unity and progress, both at home and abroad. As your humble servant and Eze Igbo of Maitama, I feel compelled to address these issues and call for peace, unity, and brotherly love among our people", he noted.
On the State of South East, he said, "Our beloved South East region is currently engulfed in turmoil, fear, and insecurity. From economic struggles to political instability, our homeland faces one of its most challenging periods in recent history
"Central to this crisis is the incarceration of our son, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. His ongoing detention by the Department of State Services (DSS) has become a symbol of the larger grievances faced by ndi Igbo in Nigeria."
Eze Okey-Dede emphasized the need for the federal government to address the root causes of these challenges, rather than merely treating the symptoms. "The cry for self-determination must not be ignored; it should be channeled through dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect. I call on the Federal Government to prioritize justice and fairness by releasing Mazi Nnamdi Kanu unconditionally. His release would not only quell the growing agitation but also pave the way for meaningful discussions about our nation's future."
He further cautioned against violent protests, stating, "While we demand justice from the government, we must also hold ourselves accountable. Destructive actions such as burning our homes, shutting down markets, and attacking our own in the name of protest only serve to weaken our collective strength. The South East is the cradle of Igbo civilization; we must protect and develop it, not destroy it."
Eze Okey-Dede also addressed the challenges faced by the Igbo community abroad. "While our homeland struggles, so too do our people in the diaspora. Reports of infighting, envy, and disunity among Ndigbo abroad are deeply troubling. In many countries, Igbo organizations are splintered into factions, each claiming to represent our true interests. This divisiveness undermines our collective strength and tarnishes our reputation globally."
He urged the diaspora to remember their legacy: "Wherever you go, you carry the legacy of ndi Igbo. Let brotherly love prevail. Differences in opinion should never lead to enmity; instead, let us embrace our diversity as a source of strength. Establish councils of elders to mediate disputes and promote accountability among our leaders. Remember, when we stand united, no force can break us."
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