Do the Igbos Truly Aspire to Secede from Nigeria? And Is It Possible?

In response to my previous article titled "A Cautionary Note on America’s Plans to Break Up Nigeria," I received numerous reactions, predominantly from Igbo-Nigerians. While many comments were harsh and personal, a central theme emerged: Nigeria was constructed on a flawed foundation by the British for their gain, and the Igbos were unwittingly drafted into this arrangement, hence deserving the right to disengage from what some termed the "forced Lugardian contraption of falsehood."

Many commentators expressed gratitude towards American Congressman Riley Moore for advocating on behalf of Christians in the U.S. political arena, particularly in light of the ongoing violence attributed to "Islamist Jihadists" against Christians in Nigeria.

Comments suggested that Nigeria's unity is unsustainable given the relentless killings of Christians in the central region and continued marginalization of the Igbos in national affairs. One individual remarked that since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu once expressed disbelief in Nigeria's unity, Congressman Moore's efforts to aid "oppressed" regions are valid and should not be condemned.

These opinions echo long-held beliefs within the southeastern part of Nigeria. However, while many share such views, others adopt more nuanced positions. One commenter pointed out, "The uproar over Christian genocide appears to be orchestrated by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) to align with what Congressman Moore represents. From my perspective, this congressman may be unwittingly serving their agenda. The Nigerian government may be misjudging IPOB’s tactics concerning their perceived Biafran aspirations. While IPOB may not reach their goals, they can certainly become a thorn in the government’s side if this Moore initiative materializes."

This brings us to the pivotal question regarding the Igbos’ intentions: do they genuinely wish to leave Nigeria, and if so, how might they achieve this? Through peaceful dialogue or armed conflict?

It's imperative to recognize that the last secession attempt by the Igbos occurred in 1967 during what is known as the Nigeria Civil War or Biafran War. The situation surrounding that attempt was circumstantially significant, and many believe that the reasons for their actions were justified at the time. The events leading up to the counter-coup of July 1966 and the ensuing mass displacement and killing of Igbos in the northern region were perceived as an excessive response to the actions of predominantly Igbo military officers during the earlier coup of January 1966.

The current calls for secession, fueled by past grievances and claims of ongoing marginalization, do not adequately warrant the fragmentation of Nigeria.

In this pressure cooker called Nigeria, every group experiences various forms of suffering; no one is spared from some hardship. It's essential to acknowledge that all ethnic components of Nigeria were largely disregarded when the British amalgamated the regions. In fact, not only did the Igbos play a significant role in enhancing British control in Nigeria by constructing key infrastructures under colonial oversight, but they also contributed heavily to the colonial administrative framework, including railways, telecommunications, and civil services.

Once Nigeria attained independence, the only region to voice dissent regarding their inclusion in the new nation was what is now Cameroon, and their desires were fulfilled through a plebiscite.

The Igbos have been integral to Nigeria since colonialism, leaving both positive and negative imprints on the nation's trajectory.

Among Nigeria's many ethnic gathers, the Igbos have arguably left the most profound influence. It’s widely recognized that their contributions significantly shape Nigeria's identity abroad.

Given their substantial impact within this diverse nation, many Nigerians find it perplexing that Igbos assert feelings of marginalization while a considerable portion seeks secession from a country they've significantly helped to develop. Moreover, even those advocating for secession have struggled to clarify their proposed methods to other Nigerians.

While it's acknowledged that their previous secession attempt had a basis in existential need, the pressing inquiry is: what rationale can the Igbos offer to justify pursuing secession in today's approach? Should they manage to establish a shaky justification for their claims, their approach has yet to convincingly demonstrate to other Nigerians that they are genuinely committed to this cause.

If the goal is to attain secession through constitutional means, the promoters of such a movement have not originated this initiative through visible Igbo political representatives at local, state, and federal levels, which could catalyze necessary momentum, beginning from Igbo territories and potentially spreading across Nigeria to gather sufficient support.

Alternatively, is secession through armed conflict a feasible option as some advocates suggest?

Reflecting on past efforts, any such insurgency would confront two formidable challenges: fierce governmental opposition and robust resistance from neighboring non-Igbo South-South states. Those who cling to this notion might dispute the reality of this assessment, but this remains the situation.

Perhaps this bleak outlook compels certain diaspora IPOBIANS to engage with American political novices like Congressman Riley Moore, who may perceive an opportunity to bolster his meager political stature on an issue he has little understanding of. The funds being directed toward Congressman Moore by those anticipating a legislative fracturing of Nigeria in the U.S. Congress are likely to result in futile endeavors.