NewStats: 3,263,929 , 8,181,934 topics. Date: Sunday, 08 June 2025 at 08:00 PM 613x5w

A Response to Kenneth Ogidi: On Forgiveness and Brotherhood

By Chief Innocent Okeke

I have read Kenneth Ogidi’s apology with a heart that is both humbled and grateful. It takes courage to it when we are wrong, and even greater strength to do so publicly. I commend him for this rare act of sincerity and reflection.

Kenneth, your words have found their way to my heart, not because they completely erase the pain of the lies against me, but because they affirm a truth we must all live by. We are stronger when we choose understanding over hostility, and truth over pride.

What I must say, however, is that I had already forgiven him long before his letter reached me. In my journey through public service and politics, I have grown familiar with being misunderstood and misrepresented. It comes with the territory. I have learned to keep my heart open and my spirit anchored, knowing that time often reveals the truth to those willing to seek it.

Dear Ken, I accept your apology fully, not because I demand it, but because you have offered it freely and honestly. I hold no grudge against you my brother. I hope that this experience strengthens our collective resolve to build bridges, not walls, in the struggle for a better future for our people.

Let us all that our shared vision for progress must be larger than our personal disagreements. Let this be a reminder that we are not enemies, but brothers striving for the same light in different ways.

When you return to Nigeria, I welcome that lunch or dinner you spoke of. It will be more than a meeting. It will be a symbol of reconciliation and renewed brotherhood.

May we continue to grow, together and in truth.

A Personal Apology to Chief Innocent Okeke

By Kenneth Ogidi

Four days ago, I published a piece that I now deeply regret. In a moment of outrage, fueled by ion and a one-sided narrative, I allowed myself to become a tool for division rather than a voice for truth. I write today not with the arrogance of a writer defending his position but with the humility of a man who has looked inward and seen his own error.

Chief Innocent Okeke, I owe you a profound apology.

I was deceived. I was presented with a version of events that painted you in the darkest colors. And in my haste to defend what I believed was our collective cause, I failed to do the one thing that truth demands: investigate thoroughly. I wrote out of anger and wounded pride, not out of wisdom. I allowed emotion to cloud my judgment. And for that, I am truly sorry.

In the days that followed my article, I did what I should have done before I put pen to paper. I asked questions. I listened to others. I reviewed your record. And what I found was not a sell out but a man who has stood for something even when it was easier to bend. A man whose loyalty to the Labour Party predates many of us. A man who has invested sweat, time, and reputation to build a structure when the spotlight was far away.

Your response to my article was not one of rage or vindictiveness. It was calm, measured, and mature. You showed restraint where many would have lashed out. That alone speaks volumes of your character. You chose dignity over drama. Dialogue over destruction. I commend you for that. It is a rare kind of strength.

You did not deserve the public lashing I gave you. You did not deserve to be spoken of as a traitor. I spoke of Biafra. I spoke of betrayal. I invoked painful memories that should not have been tied to your name. That was wrong. It was reckless. And I take full responsibility.

Leadership, I now understand more clearly, is not always about who shouts loudest in public. Sometimes it is about who works quietly in the background. Who holds the line when others walk away. Who bears the weight of criticism not because they are guilty but because they are committed to the process.

To the readers I may have misled, I also apologize. We must not let anger become our only com. We must not let our fear of betrayal turn us into those who betray truth. Chief Innocent Okeke has not destroyed the Labour Party. He has helped build it. And whether we agree with every decision or not, we must honor the work he has done.

To Chief Okeke again, I say: You are not my enemy. You are my brother. And though I failed you with my words, I hope to begin a process of healing with these ones. I hope our people will see this as a turning point—that we must learn to listen better, to ask harder questions, and to never weaponize our pain against each other without cause.

The South East needs unity, not suspicion. We need leadership, not division. And above all, we need truth—not just the truth we are told, but the truth we are willing to search for, even when it challenges our biases.

Let this be the beginning of a new chapter, one built on reconciliation, understanding, and renewed commitment to the ideals we all share. I am sorry, Chief. And I thank you for showing me what leadership truly looks like. My mind is troubled, and I say this with all sincerity. Only your acceptance of this apology and your forgiveness can bring me peace again. I look forward to reading your response, not just for closure, but for the restoration of brotherhood. And whenever I return to Nigeria, it would be my honor to share a lunch or dinner with you, not just as colleagues in the political journey, but as brothers who have chosen truth over pride and unity over discord.

Kenneth Ogidi
May 2025

Ken Ogidi: A stand against lies and misinformation

Anayo Ezekwem

In the crucible of our political struggle, truth must triumph over ion, and unity must prevail over reckless division. As an Igbo dismayed by the rising tide of hatred, I rise to defend Chief Innocent Okeke, a steadfast leader unjustly vilified by Kenneth Ogidi in a deplorable article. I can't stand lies and misinformation. Far from a reasoned critique, Ogidi’s piece is a shameful assault, brimming with baseless accusations and divisive venom. It threatens not only Okeke but the very soul of our people in Nigeria’s fragile South East. Such intellectual dishonesty demands a stern rebuke, for silence in the face of falsehood is complicity.

Ogidi, a lecturer, accuses Okeke of betraying Igbo luminaries Peter Obi and Alex Otti, whose national prominence revitalized the Labour Party. He alleges Okeke colluded with party chairman Julius Abure to endorse the suspension of Obi and Otti, posted anti-Igbo sentiments on Facebook, and hypocritically urged Otti against ing the APC. These are grave charges, yet Ogidi offers not a shred of evidence. No screenshots of alleged posts, other than Okeke doing what his office demands, no records of Okeke’s endorsement, no proof of his duplicity. His article, cloaked in the garb of Igbo pride, is a hollow tirade, substituting unverified claims for analysis. For a scholar, this is an unforgivable lapse, a betrayal of the rigor his profession demands. Ogidi’s call to declare Okeke persona non grata is not ion but propaganda, designed to inflame rather than inform.

Chief Okeke’s contributions to the Labour Party are neither recent nor trivial. He was in Labour party years before Otti ed, he spearheaded grassroots campaigns for the party in Anambra, Imo, Abia, Enugu etc, organizing rallies, training volunteers, and building party structures across rural communities. These efforts laid the foundation for Obi’s 2023 presidential campaign and Otti’s gubernatorial victory in Abia. To dismiss Okeke as a mere beneficiary of their fame is a deliberate distortion, erasing a legacy of sacrifice forged in the trenches of political struggle. Okeke is not without faults, but to brand him a saboteur is to spit on decades of service. Ogidi’s claim that Okeke “gleefully posts” against Ndigbo is a fabrication, uned by any public record. His alleged plea to Otti, if true, reflects a desire to preserve party unity, not hypocrisy.

The Labour Party’s current turmoil stems from disagreements over leadership which is not unusual of political parties in Nigeria, with factions vying for control ahead of future elections. Even the "almighty" PDP are with their share of trouble. Okeke, as a party stalwart, has championed adherence to the party’s constitutional processes, ensuring decisions reflect collective will, not individual ambition. This principled stance does not equate to endorsing suspensions or betraying Igbo leaders. The Labour Party is a national institution, not an Igbo fiefdom, and its rules bind all , regardless of region. Ogidi’s insinuation that Okeke invites “outsiders” to humiliate Ndigbo misrepresents the party’s democratic mechanisms. To dismantle this structure in a fit of rage risks repeating the errors of our past, when internal strife cost our people political influence.


Ogidi’s invocation of Biafra to liken Okeke to wartime trators is utterly reprehensible. Equating a party dispute to the horrors of a war that claimed millions trivializes our collective trauma and poisons discourse. The Labour Party is not a battlefield, and Okeke’s advocacy for process is not treason. Such reckless analogies inflame tensions and dishonor the memory of Biafra’s fallen. If Ogidi seeks to protect Igbo interests, why does he sow division with such abandon? His call to ostracize Okeke contradicts the sacred Igbo creed he cites: onye aghala nwanne ya (do not abandon your kin). By urging Okeke’s banishment, Ogidi himself abandons this principle, wielding our values as a weapon while betraying their spirit. This hypocrisy is a stain on his scholarship and his claim to Igbo identity.

As Igbos, we are defined by resilience, not retribution. Our history, from the Aba Women’s Riot to the Biafra struggle, teaches us to correct, not destroy, our own. Banishing dissenters like Okeke sets a perilous precedent, silencing voices that challenge the status quo. If we allow Ogidi’s venom to prevail, we risk becoming a people who consume their own, leaving us weaker in a nation that demands our unity. Let us not repeat the mistakes of past generations, who burned bridges in anger only to wander in regret.

To those swayed by Ogidi’s fervor, I issue a challenge: demand evidence, not emotion. Scrutinize his claims and find them wanting. Reject rhetoric that pits brother against brother, and embrace dialogue to heal our party’s wounds. leaders like Okeke, who uphold process over chaos, and commit to reforming the Labour Party as a beacon for all Nigerians. Let every town union, youth group, and market square in Igbo land rally for truth and ability. Write to party leaders, engage on platforms like X, and demand transparent resolution of disputes. Our unity is our greatest asset, and we must wield it to shape a future where Igbos stand tall, unbowed by internal strife.We owe ourselves this much.

We owe our children a legacy of strength, not shame. Let us rise above Ogidi’s divisive call and build a Labour Party, and a nation, where truth and dignity prevail.

Final words to Abia Progressive Movement (APM)

Innocent Sunday Okeke

It is both disheartening and intellectually dishonest that a group as inconsequential as APM has chosen to attempt to besmirch my character with baseless accusations. I must approach this matter with the seriousness it deserves, not only as an individual whose integrity is under attack, but as a a patriot who values truth, reason, and the sanctity of one's reputation. APM exposes their shortcomings in their lengthy but substance lacking piece. It was a hurriedly conjured lies filled with contradictions. Of course I did not expect excellence from a group that is puppet to politicians and only engages in dirty shabby jobs.

*Ordinarily, I would have ignored the faceless contraption that parades itself as the Abia Progressive Movement (APM), an amorphous gathering of political errand boys often recruited for the dirtiest games of smear and subversion. However, seeing that their so-called Secretary, Barr. Hilary Dike, a man who ought to know the demands of legal responsibility, has lent his name and supposed professional calling to the dissemination of puerile falsehoods that would not survive the most elementary legal scrutiny, I am compelled to respond, not for their sake, but for the sake of posterity and to forestall the deliberate poisoning of public space with manufactured lies and shameless distortions.*

First and foremost, I must point out that APM lacks the requisite transparency to engage in such weighty matters. You remain anonymous, operating behind shadows and engaging in subterfuge. It is troubling that such an entity would choose to indulge in defamation. The anonymity of APM reveals its fundamental lack of credibility, and its reliance on unsubstantiated claims only underscores its lack of intellectual or moral standing.

*Contrary to the reckless and false claims of APM, at no point did I insult Senator Orji Uzor Kalu. On the contrary, I consider Senator Kalu as one of the illustrious sons of Alaigbo, whose contributions to the socio-political journey of our people are notable. My only disappointment, which I expressed respectfully and with the decorum befitting public discourse, was with the unsavory remarks he made recently concerning Abia State, Governor Alex Otti, and the political future of Labour Party which I'm an integral member of. As a seasoned media figure himself, Senator Kalu knows the value of diverse opinions and constructive critique. Indeed, it is the interplay of differing perspectives that deepens democracy and strengthens human society. My engagement was done within the highest standards of public debate, devoid of bile, but firm on principle. I challenge APM to point out one insult that was contained in my objections to the position of Orji Uzor Kanu on Abia politics lately*

Now, to the heart of the matter: the accusations of bribery and financial misconduct leveled against me. I will not stoop to the depths of APM’s unfounded allegations. To put it simply, I am a businessman with over four decades of productivity, worked diligently in various fields, including community development, and have established myself as a legitimate and credible member of the business community. Unlike those behind APM, I have a verifiable source of income, a transparent livelihood, and a long history of contributing to the betterment of society. I do not rely on shadowy dealings or dirty political games to build wealth.

I challenge APM to present the evidence they claim to have(evidence that they so boldly assert exists). If APM possesses such documents or proof of wrongdoing, they must release them immediately. The failure to do so would expose them as nothing more than a group of deceitful individuals attempting to tarnish my reputation without the slightest evidence. I stand by my record, and I will not allow APM’s unfounded claims to go unchallenged.

As a law abiding citizen, I must remind APM that defamation is not a trivial matter. In accordance with Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, every Nigerian is entitled to freedom of speech. However, this right is not absolute. It must be exercised responsibly. The group’s reckless statements fall far outside the bounds of responsible speech, and you have clearly violated my right to a good name. Section 34(1) of the Nigerian Constitution explicitly protects individuals against defamation. Therefore, APM must understand that they cannot hide behind the cloak of anonymity while making serious accusations that affect the lives of others.

It is with this in mind that I demand an immediate retraction of your defamatory statements and a public apology. Failure to meet these demands within 48 hours will compel me to seek legal recourse. As a person who holds the law in high regard, I am prepared to take the necessary steps to ensure that my reputation is not sullied by the careless words of faceless cowards. Legal action for defamation is not a decision I take lightly, but I will not allow APM’s baseless smears to stand unchallenged.

Furthermore, I must emphasize that I am no stranger to the principles of politics. Unlike those behind APM, I do not operate in the shadows or rely on underhanded tactics to advance my agenda. I have always sought to serve Nigeria and humanity with integrity and honor with my commentaries on issues. It is laughable that a group with no clear identity or political weight would attempt to engage in the politics of smear campaigns and empty accusations.

Finally, to the point of APM’s alleged “exposure” of my activities, let it be known that I will not be distracted by their desperate attempts to stay afloat in a sea of irrelevance. Their baseless claims only reveal the weakness of their position. If they truly believe they have evidence of criminal activity, they are welcome to present it. Otherwise, they must take the intellectual high road and retract their claims.

I implore APM to reflect on the value of truth and the responsibility that comes with freedom of speech. My livelihood and reputation are built on a foundation of hard work, honesty, and community service, values that APM evidently lacks. I challenge them to match my integrity, and to cease from slinging mud in a vain attempt to diminish others.

I await your retraction and/or apology.

Sincerely,
Chief Innocent Sunday Okeke (Duru Agumba)
Labour Party DNS

Error!!!

Kalu's Fear Shows That The People Have Woken Up Indeed

By Innocent Sunday Okeke

It is often said that when the guilty are rattled, they rush to explain. That is exactly what Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has done in his recent video after the truthful blows I delivered shook the very foundation of his carefully crafted deception. But his attempt to spin the truth only exposed him further.

First, let me state clearly: no amount of afterthought explanation will erase the fact that Orji Uzor Kalu attempted to blackmail Governor Alex Otti into the failed and sinking APC. His comment was not innocent observation. It was a calculated blackmail, dressed in deceitful diplomacy, meant to pressure a popular governor into the arms of an unpopular regime. That Kalu now claims he was merely "informing" the public that Tinubu is unhappy with Abia shows the depth of his insincerity. But even in trying to clean up his mess, he has only made it messier.

The less than 20% votes APC got in Abia State during the presidential election was not an accident. It was a direct referendum on APC’s catastrophic misrule and outright betrayal of Nigerians. The people of Abia rejected APC resoundingly because they saw no hope in a party that has weaponized poverty, institutionalized insecurity, and crushed the economy. Kalu should stop deceiving himself. That rejection will be even worse in 2027, because Bola Tinubu’s istration has taken the marginalization of the South East to an absurd, ridiculous height never before witnessed in the democratic history of Nigeria.

Today, there is not a single Igbo man or woman in what can be described as Tinubu’s kitchen cabinet, the very heart of executive decision-making. Every critical position, every strategic appointment, has been carefully distributed among those who either share Tinubu’s ethnic background or political loyalty, leaving the South East as mere spectators in a government they contributed to building. The only "crime" the Igbo committed was daring to offer Nigeria their best in Peter Obi, using the Labour Party as a platform to present a credible, competent, and widely accepted alternative at a time when the entire nation was yearning for true leadership and equity. It was the most fitting moment when justice and fairness demanded that the South East, since the return of democracy in 1999, should produce the president of the country for the very first time.

Rather than embrace this historical necessity, the establishment responded with hostility, marginalization, and a campaign of exclusion that has continued into the structure of governance itself. Tinubu's government has effectively turned its back on the Igbo people, treating them not as equal stakeholders in the Nigerian project, but as second-class citizens whose voice and contributions are systematically disregarded. No amount of propaganda or self-delusion from the likes of Orji Uzor Kalu can cover up this brazen injustice. Tinubu himself knows it. Every discerning Nigerian knows it. And history will record it. Kalu’s shameless attempt to paint Tinubu as some magnanimous leader despite this glaring injustice only confirms that he has sold both his voice and his conscience for a plate of political porridge.

When Kalu says he cannot demand favours from Tinubu because of the "small votes" the South East gave, he exposes his political ignorance and moral bankruptcy. Nigeria’s resources belong to all Nigerians, not just to those who voted for a particular party. Governance is not a vendetta enterprise. It is a sacred responsibility to serve the collective interest of the citizenry irrespective of political leanings. By suggesting otherwise, Orji Uzor Kalu has subtly itted that this government runs on ethnic vengeance and tribal supremacy. No wonder the Tinubu cabinet is alarmingly dominated by Yorubas to the disgraceful exclusion of other regions. So much for national unity and inclusion.

Senator Kalu’s jitteriness is understandable. He knows what is coming. His fears are not just about APC being humiliated again in the South East in 2027. Deep down, he knows the Nigerian people are preparing for a complete rejection of everything the APC stands for: deceit, incompetence, tribalism, and economic destruction. Kalu can sense the approaching political tsunami, and he is desperately clinging to anything he thinks might save him from being swept away. But it is too late. The people have seen through the lies.

Let it be made clear that Labour Party represents the light that is illuminating the darkness APC has plunged Nigeria into. Governor Otti understands the sacredness of the mandate freely given to him by the good people of Abia. He will not betray that mandate by romancing a political contraption whose expiry date is already written in bold letters. No amount of blackmail, cajolery, or emotional manipulation will push Governor Otti into the waiting jaws of a party the people have overwhelmingly rejected.

Orji Uzor Kalu needs to be reminded that Tinubu, whom he now worships like a tin god, did not become politically powerful by being petty and betraying his people. Tinubu rose by building political alliances, empowering his people, and standing firm even when the odds were against him. Kalu on the other hand, is seeking political relevance by pulling down his own house and selling his own people cheaply. He is not following Tinubu’s example. He is merely groveling for crumbs from a table where he will never be truly respected.

Kalu must understand that history does not forget. Posterity will not be kind to those who, when given the opportunity to stand tall for their people, chose instead to crawl for personal gain. Instead of fighting for greater inclusion and fair treatment of the South East, he is busy manufacturing excuses for his masters while mocking the very people he claims to represent.

In the end, no propaganda or self-righteous videos can save Orji Uzor Kalu or APC from the judgment of the people. The South East deserves justice, equality, and good governance. Not crumbs, not blackmail, not threats. Labour Party stands firm with the people. Governor Alex Otti stands firm with the people. And I, Chief Innocent Sunday Okeke, will continue to speak truth to power without fear, without favour, and without apology.

The clock is ticking. 2027 will tell the full story.

Chief Innocent Sunday Okeke (Duru Agumba)
DNS, Labour Party

ABIA PROGRESSIVE MOVEMENT (APM)

PRESS RELEASE

OKEKE’S POLITICAL AMNESIA AND THE LABOUR PARTY ILLUSION

The attention of the Abia Progressive Movement (APM) has been drawn to the self-serving epistle written by one Chief Innocent Sunday Okeke, who now parades himself as the moral com of Abia politics despite his glaring failure as South East Chairman of the Labour Party during the last general election. We are compelled to respond not because his outburst carries any real political weight, but to put the records straight and expose the hypocrisy of a man desperate for attention and political relevance.

It is laughable that Chief Okeke, who as revealed by our investigations, couldn’t deliver his ward in his own State of Imo to Labour Party's gubernatorial candidate, Senator Athan Achonu in the last election, now assumes the audacity to dictate the political direction of a stable and performing state like Abia. How a man who could not mobilize for his party in his home front finds the moral standing to lecture a sitting governor in a neighbouring state is a mystery that only opportunism can explain.

Chief Okeke should be more concerned about the total collapse of Labour Party in Imo State and his inability to unite even a ward in the South East under his supposed leadership. It is not lost on the people of Abia that this same man now attempts to interfere in the affairs of a state where he holds no stake, no structure, and no moral ground. His unsolicited opinion reeks of ignorance and misplacement of priority, not patriotism.

Let it be made clear that the idea of linking Abia to the centre through Governor Otti’s strategic alignment with the All Progressives Congress is a smart, pragmatic and visionary move that has the best interests of the state at heart. Only political infants still believe in opposition for the sake of opposition. Governance in this age demands synergy, cooperation, and alignment with the federal government to secure infrastructural, economic and security dividends for one's state. This is not 1999 politics. We are in a new dispensation where results matter more than empty rhetoric.

Even the symbolic leader of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, has come to with the fact that the party has outlived its usefulness. His recent postures and consultative movements point to the inevitable: Labour Party is a broken platform, and Obi, alongside other key figures like Atiku Abubakar, is in talks to form a new coalition. That is the reality. Only men like Chief Okeke, blinded by personal ambition and the crumbs of factional politics, still carry the burden of a party that has lost structure, credibility, and the confidence of the Nigerian people.

It is most unfortunate that Chief Okeke has resorted to making reckless and dishonourable statements against illustrious sons of Abia State, including Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu. These men have given far more to the state and the South East than Chief Okeke could ever hope to achieve. Orji Uzor Kalu remains a political colossus whose legacy of infrastructure and political bridge-building is undisputed. Benjamin Kalu, as Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, has used his office to project the interests of the South East and attract attention to key developmental issues. Chief Okeke is not in their league. He must learn to show respect and decorum when addressing such figures.

It is false and mischievous to claim that Labour Party made Governor Otti. The truth is the exact opposite. Governor Otti gave Labour Party its only meaningful existence. Without Otti, Labour Party would not have produced even a councillor in Abia. Let Chief Okeke name one other state where the Labour Party won a governorship seat. Let him tell Nigerians how many of their so-called National Assembly have remained with the party after elections. The answer is painfully obvious. Labour Party was a temporary platform hijacked by individual credibility, not built on any solid structure or ideology. The platform is hollow, fragmented, and factionalized beyond repair.

The Abure-led faction which Chief Okeke belongs to is the most rejected political clique in contemporary Nigerian politics. They have been disowned by the courts, discredited in public opinion, and dumped by most serious politicians. They survive on press releases and delusions of influence. His recent media outings are nothing more than desperate attempts to gain the attention of Governor Otti, hoping to be called for “settlement”. That is the true motivation behind his sudden burst of activism. It is not about Abia, it is not about Labour, it is about personal gain.

Chief Okeke must be warned to stay clear of Abia politics. His distractions are not welcome here. Governor Otti is focused on governance and making the right strategic decisions for the people of Abia. If aligning with the APC will bring federal roads, energy projects, security funding, and economic inclusion, then by all means, the people of Abia it. The same way Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom defected to the APC quietly for the sake of his people, the same way the governors of Enugu and Delta are reportedly making their moves, Governor Otti must be free to consider what is best for the long-term progress of the state.

We in APM advise Chief Okeke to take his restless energy back to Imo and explain to his constituents how a supposed zonal chairman failed to deliver even one ward in his state. The people of Abia will no longer tolerate external meddling, especially from those who have nothing to show for leadership.

This is the final warning. Chief Okeke should either focus on redeeming what remains of his fractured political career or prepare for continuous embarrassment at the hands of Abians who are tired of his meddlesomeness. Enough is enough.

Signed
Barr Hilary Dike
Secretary, Abia Progressive Movement (APM)
April 24, 2025

The Mandate Is Sacred: Labour Party, Not APC, Is Abia’s Future

By Innocent Sunday Okeke

When those who orchestrated Nigeria’s current misery rise to mock the very beacon of progress in Abia State, we are reminded that truth must never be left to wrestle in silence. The attempt to paint Governor Alex Otti’s transformational leadership as a product of his personal ingenuity while dismissing the platform that birthed and sustained that vision is not just mischievous, it is dishonest.

Governor Otti’s performance is a reflection of the Labour Party’s people-oriented policies. It is the Labour Party’s manifesto that prioritizes workers’ welfare, transparency in governance, infrastructural revival, and responsive leadership. To strip the party of its due credit is to undermine the collective will of Abians who chose Labour not for slogans but for substance. It is not about one man. It is about the spirit of a party that emerged as a sanctuary for Nigerians tired of recycled failure.

The APC must also be reminded that Alex Otti once sought refuge under their roof. He knocked, he waited, and he was rejected. The same man they now chase with outstretched arms was considered unworthy when their party had the chance to stand for competence. Instead, they endorsed mediocrity, and now, seeing the light shining from Abia, they scramble to latch onto what they once discarded. Hypocrisy never ages well. If APC could not identify Otti’s worth back then, why should anyone believe they now do?

Let us talk about performance and the people’s verdict. No APC governor excites his people the way Otti has captured the imagination and trust of Abians. No governor under APC's umbrella has inspired such spontaneous civic participation or voluntary applause across market squares, religious gatherings, and civil society spaces. Why? Because Otti’s mandate was freely given. There was no thuggery, no ballot snatching, no INEC compromise. It was the people’s voice roaring through the ballot box. Contrast this with APC strongholds where governors emerge through rigging, intimidation, and court verdicts. In such states, fear replaces hope and silence follows elections. In Abia, joy followed victory.

Now to the ill-advised political sermon that ing the APC brings one closer to the center. It is baffling that anyone would push this worn-out propaganda in 2025 when Nigerians are struggling to breathe under the weight of Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic disaster. If aligning with the center brings development, why is Nigeria sliding into economic purgatory? Why is inflation hovering above 33 percent according to the National Bureau of Statistics? Why has the naira collapsed to historically embarrassing lows? Why have basic food items tripled in price, sending millions below the poverty line?

The APC has become a coven where once-promising minds are turned to zombies. It is a place where conscience is suppressed, dissent is punished, and sycophancy is rewarded. The party that once masqueraded as progressive now wears the robe of authoritarianism without shame. What does it offer a man like Alex Otti, whose identity is rooted in ability, not praise-singing? What becomes of his legacy if he succumbs to the embrace of a failed experiment?

They now flaunt recent defections as trophies of political wisdom. The defection of Akwa Ibom’s governor to the APC is not an act of courage but a retreat into political self-preservation. The rumoured movement of Delta and Enugu governors in the coming days confirms only one thing—the APC does not win hearts through policy, it wins fear through manipulation. These defections are not driven by the will to serve the people better. They are bids to avoid persecution and secure federal favor. But will aligning with a drowning ship save one from the sea? Ask the APC governors battling growing discontent in their states.

Let us also settle the fiction that Labour is in disarray. This tired falsehood has been repeated like a lullaby meant to soothe a restless conscience. The Labour Party has survived APC-sponsored sabotage. It has survived court attacks, electoral manipulation, and internal moles planted by those who fear its ideology. Yet it stands, not as a party of billionaires, but as a platform of visionaries, of dreamers, of builders. If we were as fragmented as they claim, why does the APC panic at our growth? Why do they fear Governor Otti’s mere presence? Why do they now scramble to weaken what they could not conquer?

Before they ask which Labour Party faction I speak for(which there's not faction as at today in Labour party), let them ask which APC faction will still be standing when Nigerians go to the polls in 2027. Let them ask how many of their leaders will defend the legacy of hunger, hopelessness, and hyperinflation. Let them ask if the same party that promised change but delivered chains has the moral standing to demand allegiance.

Governor Alex Otti is not a man to be swayed by political gimmickry. He is not a man who bows to the gods of temporary advantage. He understands that some alliances are poisonous. And if the cost of refusing to dine with the APC is momentary isolation, then let it be. For the true reward lies in the enduring iration of a people who finally see what it means to be governed.

Let the merchants of betrayal keep knocking. Labour will not open the door. Abia has found light, and we shall not return to darkness. Governor Otti has become a reference point not because of the APC’s rejected ticket, but because the people trusted Labour’s promise. That promise is not for sale. Not now. Not ever.

In 2027, the APC will not be judged by propaganda. It will be judged by its record. By the number of children out of school. By the exchange rate. By the number of jobs lost. By the cost of food. By the crime rate. By the tears of the masses. No amount of defectors or blackmail will shield them from that judgment.

Labour Party is here to stay. Governor Otti is here to lead. Abia has risen. And there will be no going back.

Chief Innocent Sunday Okeke (Duru Agumba) is
Labour Party's DNS.

POLITICS IS STRATEGY, NOT SENTIMENT: WHY OTTI MUST ALIGN WITH THE CENTRE

Eneh Victor

By every rational measure of political thought and governance, the recent backlash against Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu over their counsel for Governor Alex Otti to align with the APC is a classic case of shooting the messenger and ignoring the message. Chief Innocent Sunday Okeke’s tirade, couched in activist poetry, may entertain a partisan crowd, but it fails the test of pragmatic leadership in a federal democracy like Nigeria’s.

First, the facts must be made clear: Governor Otti’s success so far in Abia is the fruit of personal competence, not the genius of the Labour Party. His reforms, transparency drives, and infrastructural push are rooted in his character and vision, not party ideology. The Labour Party, in truth, is not a coherent structure. it is a fractured movement, stumbling under the weight of infighting, litigation, and confused allegiances. It is in disarray.

This raises a critical question: which Labour Party faction does Chief Okeke even speak for? The one loyal to Lamidi Apapa? Or the one that still clings to Julius Abure's contested leadership? Or is he speaking for the Peter Obi loyalists who operate like a shadow party within the party? And more importantly, if Chief Okeke insists that Otti should remain “loyal” to the Labour Party, to which of these splintered organs should he pledge that loyalty? You cannot demand unity from a man when your own house is in ruins.

Labour Party is not only divided; it is uncertain of its future. Its lack of ideological coherence, national spread, and structural discipline renders it an unreliable vehicle for sustained governance at the state level. A sitting governor with a reformist vision cannot be chained to a house constantly at war with itself. Governor Otti must rise above the chaos and align with a national structure that gives him leverage, not liability.

This is where the APC becomes a strategic proposition. Like it or not, it is the party at the centre. And in Nigeria’s federal configuration, the centre controls the lifeblood of development viz allocations, security, infrastructure, diplomacy, and donor funding. Any subnational leader who isolates himself from the centre in the name of empty ideology is only punishing his people. The goal of politics is impact, not noise.

Orji Uzor Kalu, for all his imperfections, understands this game. His political currency has outlived three istrations, and his influence in the national assembly is significant. Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, too, is not just occupying a ceremonial seat, he is strategically positioned to influence legislation and drive developmental agenda for the South East. His was key to the creation of South East Development Commission(SEDC). Their advice to Governor Otti was not blackmail. It was foresight.

Across the country, smart governors are realigning. Just yesterday, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom, a PDP man, defected to the APC. Rumors swirl that governors of Delta and Enugu may follow suit in the coming days. Are they foolish? No. They are reading the political barometer and adjusting for their people’s benefit. They understand that sentiment does not tar a road, build a hospital, or attract foreign investment. Alignment does.

If Otti chooses to walk the same path, he would not be betraying anyone. He would be acting in the higher interest of Abia State. There is no badge of honour in dying on the hill of a crumbling party. There is no virtue in staying isolated while the centre rolls out federal roads and social programmes in other states. Politics is not tribalism. it is opportunity.

Okeke claims Otti was elected to challenge the centre. But elected to do what, really? To govern, not to antagonize. To deliver, not to dramatize. To negotiate, not to barricade himself in ideological stubbornness. That is why Abians voted for him not to carry party flags into a meaningless war, but to open doors for prosperity.

It is this wisdom that men like Peter Obi himself once displayed, leaving APGA when it no longer served his ambitions for Anambra. It is the same wisdom that helped Bola Tinubu build alliances across party lines. And it is the same wisdom that will serve Governor Otti well if he listens to reason over rhetoric.

The APC government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is confronting some of the most difficult economic realities in Nigerian history. It is not a time to retreat into opposition caves; it is a time to participate in national recovery. Governor Otti has what it takes to influence that recovery if he aligns. It is not surrender. It is strategy. It is leadership.

The people of Abia deserve more than a party flag. They deserve inclusion, infrastructure, and influence. And if that means moving with the tide of federal relevance, then so be it. Because in the end, history does not who stayed in a party. It re who delivered results.

Eneh Victor, a constituent of Benjamin Kalu, writes from Abuja

EXPOSING THE FALSE NARRATIVE AND SPONSORED AGENDA AGAINST NAFDAC

Festus Ogun

It is appalling that certain writers, masquerading as objective commentators, have taken it upon themselves to mislead the public with sensationalized half-truths and outright falsehoods about NAFDAC’s regulatory actions. The latest article, “NAFDAC’s Crackdown: The Thin Line Between Fighting Fake Drugs and Destroying Legitimate Businesses,” is a textbook example of a sponsored propaganda piece designed to undermine a critical national effort to rid Nigeria of counterfeit and substandard drugs.

The writer, in his desperate attempt to paint NAFDAC as an enemy of the pharmaceutical industry, conveniently ignores the simple reality: fake and substandard drugs are killing Nigerians every single day. The deaths of innocent people, children, pregnant women, and the sick, mean nothing to him, so long as his paymasters can continue their illicit trade under the guise of “legitimate businesses.” The audacity to spin a narrative that protects criminals at the expense of public health is both shameful and reckless.

NAFDAC’s recent crackdown is not a blind attack on businesses; it is a necessary intervention to sanitize an industry plagued by life-threatening counterfeits. The claim that 11,000 shops have been “indiscriminately” shut down is not only false but a deliberate distortion of the truth. The agency did not simply wake up one morning and close businesses without due cause. These shops were identified after thorough investigations revealed their involvement in the sale and distribution of fake drugs. It is laughable that the writer questions the figure when every Nigerian knows the proliferation of counterfeit drugs has reached an alarming level.

If these so-called “legitimate traders” were truly operating above board, why are they afraid of regulation? Why do they resist compliance measures meant to ensure the safety of medicines? The simple answer is that many of them thrive in the loopholes of an unregulated system, profiting from a chaotic market where fake drugs circulate freely. The crackdown is, therefore, not a witch-hunt; it is a much-needed housecleaning.

The writer tries to shift the blame to the government, citing the lack of Coordinated Wholesale Centres (CWCs) as the reason counterfeit drugs still flood the market. While it is true that regulatory frameworks can be improved, it is outright deceptive to suggest that, in the absence of CWCs, NAFDAC should turn a blind eye to the criminals endangering lives. Regulatory gaps do not justify lawlessness. The presence of counterfeit drugs is not merely a failure of infrastructure; it is the direct result of individuals and groups choosing to break the law.

It is also amusing that the writer suddenly re the importance of CWCs now that criminals are facing consequences. Where was this concern when the same unscrupulous traders resisted structured reforms? Where was this concern when drug markets became havens for fake and expired medicines? This hypocrisy exposes the real intent behind the article: to shield those who profit from a broken system while attacking the agency cleaning up the mess.

Another absurd claim in the article is that NAFDAC’s actions are “destroying livelihoods.” This argument is nothing more than emotional blackmail. What about the thousands of families who have lost loved ones due to fake drugs? What about the economic devastation caused by counterfeit medicines that fail to treat ailments, leading to longer hospital stays, lost productivity, and unnecessary deaths? If a business’s existence depends on poisoning Nigerians with substandard drugs, then it deserves to be shut down.

NAFDAC’s primary duty is to protect public health, not to safeguard the profits of traders who operate outside the law. The agency remains committed to regulatory reforms that balance enforcement with economic considerations, but no genuine business should fear compliance. Only those with skeletons in their cupboards are crying foul.

This article is not a neutral critique; it is a poorly disguised defense of individuals and entities whose business model thrives on regulatory loopholes. The writer, likely bankrolled by vested interests, has chosen to ignore the human cost of fake drugs and instead focus on defending an industry that, for too long, has operated in the shadows of illegality.

NAFDAC will not be deterred by blackmail, media propaganda, or paid agents of counterfeit drug barons. The crackdown will continue until Nigeria’s pharmaceutical industry is free from criminal elements. Those who genuinely operate within the law have nothing to fear. But for those who have profited from the suffering of Nigerians, your time is up.

Correspondence to [email protected]

NAFDAC’s Mandate: Kizito's sponsored putrid lies and the truth

Clement Aliu

The recent article by Ademola Kizito, “NAFDAC’s Crackdown: The Thin Line Between Fighting Fake Drugs and Destroying Legitimate Businesses,” is a poorly disguised attempt to shield vested interests while distorting the reality of Nigeria’s pharmaceutical crisis. It is astonishing that in 2025, when substandard and counterfeit drugs are responsible for countless preventable deaths, anyone would argue against firm regulatory action. Rather than acknowledging the magnitude of the problem, the writer resorts to sensationalism, attempting to portray NAFDAC’s decisive actions as an indiscriminate war against legitimate businesses. This is both false and dangerous.

No one with a basic understanding of Nigeria’s drug distribution system would deny that it has been plagued by chaos, unregulated practices, and a rampant influx of counterfeit products. To frame the agency’s enforcement efforts as an “assault” on the industry is an insult to every Nigerian who has lost a loved one due to fake, substandard, or poorly stored medicines. The raids in markets like Idumota, Onitsha, and Aba were not arbitrary; they were necessary measures taken after extensive surveillance revealed alarming levels of non-compliance. It is laughable to suggest that an agency tasked with protecting public health would shut down businesses without cause. The claim that legitimate traders have been lumped together with criminals is a convenient but deceptive narrative aimed at evoking sympathy for those who have long profited from the system’s weaknesses.

The article questions the credibility of the 11,000-shop closure figure, implying that NAFDAC has exaggerated the scale of the problem. This argument collapses under the weight of reality. Anyone familiar with these markets knows that uned drug dealers, poorly stored medications, and outright fake products dominate the landscape. Does the writer expect NAFDAC to turn a blind eye simply because enforcement inconveniences a few? The insinuation that nearly all drug vendors in these markets are beyond reproach is laughable. The real issue is that, for too long, weak enforcement has allowed illegitimate businesses to thrive unchecked, and now that regulatory agencies are taking their job seriously, those benefitting from the old order are crying foul.

The piece attempts to rewrite history by suggesting that many affected businesses predate NAFDAC’s capacity to regulate them, as though longevity is an excuse for non-compliance. This logic is absurd. Running a business for decades does not exempt one from the law. If anything, long-standing traders should be the first to adhere to regulatory standards, not hide behind history to justify continued malpractice. The reality is that a large portion of Nigeria’s drug market operates in flagrant violation of safety protocols, selling medicines in open-air conditions, without proper storage, and with no verifiable supply chain integrity. The fact that these traders have operated this way for years does not make it acceptable, It only underscores the failure of past enforcement efforts, a failure NAFDAC is determined to correct.

Kizito argues that the chaotic drug distribution system is a product of government neglect and regulatory inefficiencies, as though this absolves those who deliberately exploit these weaknesses. This is a textbook example of deflection. Yes, successive governments have failed to fully centralize the pharmaceutical supply chain, but does that justify the continued sale of life-threatening counterfeit drugs? Does it excuse market operators who knowingly purchase and distribute substandard products? Regulatory shortcomings do not grant individuals the right to endanger public health. Instead of acknowledging that traders have taken advantage of lax oversight for personal gain, the writer conveniently shifts the blame to the government while ignoring the fact that industry players themselves have resisted reforms that would bring order to the system.

The attempt to link NAFDAC’s actions to rising drug prices is another exercise in misdirection. If enforcement leads to increased costs, it is because the market was previously flooded with cheap, substandard drugs. Genuine medication, stored and distributed under proper conditions, comes at a price. The alternative; allowing unsafe drugs to remain in circulation, is not an option. The real outrage should not be directed at the regulators working to protect lives but at those who have normalized the sale of compromised products at the expense of public health. NAFDAC will not be blackmailed into inaction by those who argue that regulatory enforcement is too “disruptive” or “punitive.” The only thing punitive here is the damage that counterfeit drugs inflict on Nigerians daily.

The most disingenuous part of this article is the suggestion that NAFDAC should focus solely on collaboration rather than enforcement. This is the language of those who prefer endless negotiations over real action. Dialogue has been attempted for years, and it has led nowhere. Those calling for “engagement” are often the same actors who resist meaningful regulation at every turn. While NAFDAC remains open to discussions with industry stakeholders, there will be no compromise on public safety. Businesses unwilling to meet required standards will have to either comply or cease operations.

The Federal Government’s failure to fully implement the Coordinated Wholesale Centres (CWCs) initiative is a separate issue that should not be used to justify the status quo. While it is true that this initiative could have restructured Nigeria’s pharmaceutical distribution, its delay does not mean that unregulated markets should continue unchallenged. Regulatory enforcement cannot be held hostage by bureaucratic delays in policy implementation. The way forward is not to shield non-compliant businesses under the excuse of government inefficiency but to ensure that all players in the sector operate within the boundaries of the law.

Kizito’s closing remarks expose the real agenda behind this piece: an attempt to pressure NAFDAC into relaxing its enforcement. That will not happen. NAFDAC is not in the business of appeasing those who put profits over lives. The war against fake drugs is non-negotiable, and no amount of sentimental appeals or misrepresentation will derail it. Those who want to do business in the pharmaceutical sector must adhere to the law, period. The days of unchecked malpractice are over.

Aliu is a lawyer, public affairs analysts and media consultant.

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The issue of provocative utterances within the context of IPOB (Indigenous People of Biafra) poses a significant challenge for Igbo leaders. In navigating this delicate landscape, it becomes imperative for Igbo leaders to exercise restraint in their public statements.

The call for shunning provocative utterances is rooted in the understanding that words hold immense power, capable of shaping perceptions and influencing actions. Given the sensitive nature of the IPOB movement, characterized by historical and political complexities, the role of Igbo leaders in maintaining a calm and measured discourse cannot be overstated.

Provocative language has the potential to escalate tensions, hinder constructive dialogue, and create divisions among communities. Igbo leaders, being influential figures within their respective spheres, carry a responsibility to foster unity and engage in discussions that promote understanding rather than animosity.

Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, recently made statements refuting the notion that IPOB could exert pressure on the federal government to release Nnamdi Kanu. While expressing his perspective, it's essential to note that DSR Kalu stands as a figure of great respect and influence in the Southeastern region.

Adding to his political stature is the Peace in the Southeast Project (PISE-P), an initiative spearheaded by DSR BEN.Kalu. Widely embraced, this project signifies a significant step towards fostering harmony and stability in the region. The positive reception of PISE-P underscores the importance of initiatives that prioritize peace and unity, particularly in areas that have faced historical challenges.

DSR BEN. Kalu's commitment to the Peace in the Southeast Project has not only showcased his leadership skills but has also provided a platform for constructive engagement in addressing regional concerns. The for PISE-P reflects the collective desire for a better and more harmonious Southeast.

That notwithstanding, it is imperative that DSR BEN. KALU receives guidance to exercise prudence in his language, carefully weighing each word before expressing his thoughts. Holding an esteemed position, every utterance from him is not only impactful but also tends to be perceived as a representation of the collective sentiments of the entire Southeast.

The current climate in the Southeast is highly charged, leaving little room for any further indiscreet remarks that might escalate tensions and complicate the already challenging journey towards recovery.

In fostering a culture of respectful dialogue, Igbo leaders like Benjamin kalu can lead by example, encouraging constructive conversations that address the root causes of discontent and advocate for the rights and aspirations of their people. By promoting a discourse grounded in reason and empathy, they can contribute to the resolution of longstanding issues and the creation of a more inclusive and harmonious society.

While acknowledging the numerous calls from leaders advocating for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, it is incumbent upon DSR Hon. Benjamin Okezie kalu to transcend mere criticism and utilize his influential standing to take decisive actions. Similar to the initiation of the Peace in the Southeast Project (PISE-P), he has the potential to assemble a consortium of notable figures within the region, strategizing the most effective approach to secure the release of MNK from prolonged government detention. Recognizing the pivotal role he could play, his proactive steps might accelerate the recovery of the Southeast, significantly reducing insecurity, possibly by up to 75 percent.

Irrespective of the intended audience for ben kalu statements, he must not lose sight of his primary identity as an Igbo before affiliating with any other group or section. In navigating these complex dynamics, acknowledging and respecting his roots becomes paramount in fostering unity and understanding within the Southeast.

Building on the historical success of his PISE-P project, hon.Benjamin kalu should leverage his current position to orchestrate an all-encoming, apolitical Southeast Geopolitical Summit. This summit would bring together prominent individuals from across the Southeast to deliberate on a comprehensive development strategy for the Southeast. Key priorities should include tangible initiatives to secure the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and ensure equitable representation in governance for the region.

It's crucial to recognize that the core issue in the South East is not solely IPOB, as Kalu often asserts to his audience. The root cause lies in the sense of marginalization, a topic he has yet to address. While striving for political correctness, Kalu should heed the wise Igbo saying, "Ana esi n'ulo mara a nma pụwa na ama," translating to "Charity begins at home." Embracing this perspective may allow for a more nuanced and inclusive approach to address the multifaceted challenges faced by the Southeast.

In conclusion, the imperative for Igbo leaders to shun provoking utterances within the context of IPOB is not merely a call for political correctness but a strategic move towards fostering understanding, unity, and peaceful coexistence. It is through measured language that the path to resolution and progress can be paved, ultimately benefiting not only the Igbo community but the entire nation.

Innocent Sunday Okeke
Duru Agumba.

By Innocent Sunday Okeke

It is possible that the resolution to the persistent insecurity in the South East region of Nigeria lies within the purview of the Federal Government of Nigeria. Upon reflection of the root cause of the issue, it is difficult to overlook the arrest and detention of Nnamdi Kanu as a significant factor contributing to the current state of insecurity in the region. The young man has been held in captivity for nearly two years with deliberate delays in his trial, despite being discharged and acquitted of any wrongdoing by the court of law in Nigeria.

It is evident that since his incarceration, Nigeria has not made any substantial progress in achieving unity and security for its citizens. Therefore, it is imperative that the Nigerian government urgently releases Nnamdi Kanu. Failure to do so may embolden various criminal elements to exploit his continued detention as a pretext for inciting violence and perpetrating heinous crimes in the Southeast region.

A region experiencing marginalization should not be further suppressed. Nnamdi Kanu is a highly respected figure in Igbo land, and if he is released, he may be able to address the ongoing insecurity through his words alone. Continuing to hold him captive will only hinder Nigeria's productivity in various sectors of the economy, as the economy suffers in the face of insecurity.

The late elder statesman, Chief Mbazulike Amaechi, who was wheelchair-bound, personally approached the former President of Nigeria months before his ing on, pleading for the release of this young man as his final wish. However, President Buhari remained obstinate. In any reasonable and unbiased society, when an octogenarian like Chief Mbazulike Amaechi makes such a request, it is promptly granted. Knowing that Nnamdi Kanu committed no crime by seeking his freedom and the freedom of his people from wicked oppressors.

It could be argued that the detention of Nnamdi Kanu by the Nigerian State is indicative of their unreadiness to address the issues associated with the region he represents, driven by a deep-seated well documented animosity. If this continues, it has the potential to completely dismantle the nation, thus necessitating a reconsideration of his incarceration in order to preserve the unity and survival of Nigeria as a whole. Releasing Nnamdi Kanu would restore peace in the Southeast, which has historically been the most peaceful region in Nigeria since the end of the civil war.

It is evident that the Federal Government of Nigeria is seemingly enjoying from the insecurity resulting from Nnamdi Kanu's arrest and the subsequent killings in the Southeast, as they have failed to demonstrate their presence or exhibit genuine concern thus far. The actions of the Federal Government give the impression that the Southeast is not considered a part of Nigeria's territory.

The prevailing attitude in Nigeria remains one of indifference, as if to say "let them destroy themselves," without considering that the Nigerian society is akin to a human body. Just as any part of the body that is afflicted causes pain throughout the whole body. Nigeria must cease to indirectly fighting against its own components. Instead, it should promote programs that encourage all individuals to contribute towards the recovery of the nation's deteriorated economy, which would lead to a miraculous resurgence of life.

I humbly suggest that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu should seek a political resolution in the release of Nnamdi Kanu, who is currently held as a political prisoner in Nigeria. By doing so, peace can swiftly be restored. Once he is released, any other individual instigating trouble will be singled out, allowing for a clear understanding of whom they are fighting for. Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu should seize this opportunity to accomplish what President Buhari failed to do, as he was hindered by his adherence to the old order, which prioritizes vengeance. By doing so, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu can establish a name for himself.

Numerous Igbo dignitaries have also appealed to the federal government on various platforms for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, in order to restore peace. This demand is ed by Igbo governors, senators, and businessmen, all of whom are in unison in this demand. Nigeria has the potential to regain its greatness if all segments of society are treated fairly and respectfully, with equal honor bestowed upon each other.

It is imperative to acknowledge the truth behind Nigeria's current state of affairs. It seems that Nigeria harbors apprehension towards the Igbo people and has made a commitment to hinder their progress within the country. Other regions of Nigeria appear to be complicit in this conspiracy, yet they fail to provide any valid justification for their actions. This discriminatory mindset, as history documents was inherited from the British colonial era and elevated by subsequent generations of Northern oligarchs.

The Igbo people are a valuable contribution to Africa, particularly Nigeria. During the British colonial era, the egalitarian nature of the Igbo people was recognized, and it was believed that if they were given leadership positions or empowered, they would impede British exploration in Nigeria and Africa as a whole. To prevent this, the British instigated animosity towards the Igbo people among the northern oligarchs, in order to slow their progress and maintain their dominance and exploitative practices in Nigeria. This has resulted in the present-day tribal intolerance in Nigeria, which has hindered the achievement of unity among Nigerians. In contrast, Britain has a diverse population that is united without segregation.

Despite the lack of understanding behind the fear and hatred towards the Igbo people, Nigerians have become comfortable with the British and other colonial masters who only ed those who would serve their interests and amass wealth through inappropriate means. Since the marginalization and discrimination against the Igbo people, Nigeria has not improved, but rather has moved from bad to worse.