In a powerful and passionate interview, Chief Goddy Uwazurike, former President of Aka Ikenga — a prominent Igbo socio-cultural organization — offers deep insights into the enduring significance of the Biafran cause, decades after the declaration of Biafra on May 30, 1967. He sheds light on the emotional, political, and generational impact of the Biafran struggle on the Igbo people, expressing firm conviction that the ideals that fueled the quest for Biafra remain alive today.
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May 30 Is Etched in Igbo Identity
According to Uwazurike, May 30 is more than just a date — it is embedded in the identity of every Igbo person. “It’s in our blood, in our DNA. No matter where an Igbo person finds themselves, they remember May 30,” he says. Whether commemorated in solitude, prayer, or public remembrance, the day represents a collective memory of trauma, resistance, and pride. “It’s a date that can never be wished or swept aside.”
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Lessons from Biafra: Resistance and Reaction
Reflecting on the most significant lessons from the Biafran experience, Uwazurike offers three key points:
1. When pushed to the wall, even the most passive will resist.
2. Every action evokes a reaction.
3. Imposing limits on what people can or should do carries consequences.
He adds that while each generation faces different contexts, these core lessons remain timeless and essential.
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The Igbo in Nigeria Today: A Tale of Political Exclusion
Uwazurike describes the socio-political position of the Igbo in contemporary Nigeria as “despicable.” He argues that despite some efforts by leaders like Shehu Shagari, Olusegun Obasanjo, Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, and Goodluck Jonathan to be inclusive, the systemic marginalization of the Igbo continues unabated — especially during and after the Buhari administration.
He highlights the absence of Igbo representation in key political offices — including the presidency, vice presidency, and leadership of the National Assembly and judiciary. The marginalization extends to federal appointments, where southeastern states are underrepresented compared to states like Ogun, which boasts more influential ministerial positions.
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Young Igbos and the Biafran Flame: A Justified Rage
Contrary to the belief that young people’s passion for Biafra is purely emotional, Uwazurike asserts it is driven by lived experiences of systemic injustice. He points to unfair educational cut-off marks, discriminatory admission policies, and workplace inequality as sources of deep frustration among young Igbo people.
“They grow up angry, seeing their efforts dismissed while their peers with less qualifications are elevated,” he says. “It’s not sentiment, it’s reality.”
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On the Diverse Biafran Movements: A Shared Cause, Different Methods
While there are multiple Biafran advocacy groups today, Uwazurike says the common denominator is the desire for justice and self-determination. However, he strongly distinguishes between genuine Biafran agitation and those resorting to violence.
“No true Igbo person supports violence,” he insists. “We demand justice, not chaos. Violent agitators are not representing Igbo values.”
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Security Crisis and Economic Damage in the Southeast
He condemns the rise of unknown armed groups who exploit the Biafran cause to unleash violence and fear in Igboland, especially on Mondays. He blames the military’s inaction and poor strategy for allowing these groups to terrorize innocent citizens while real agitators are sidelined.
“The criminals use fear to paralyze the economy, and our people suffer,” Uwazurike laments.
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A Call to Justice and Equity for Nigeria’s Future
When asked about the role of young Igbos in shaping the future, he stresses that meaningful change must begin with systemic reform led by today’s decision-makers. For true national unity, Uwazurike calls for an end to all forms of discrimination and inequality.
“If Nigeria truly wants progress, we must go back to the basics: justice and equity. Let merit, not ethnicity, guide our choices — from schools to civil service.”
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Chief Goddy Uwazurike’s words are a potent reminder of unresolved grievances and the need for genuine inclusion. As May 30 continues to echo across generations, the question remains: will Nigeria confront its past and forge a just future, or continue a cycle of exclusion that fuels the very agitations it fears?
