World Igbo Congress Condemns Economic Exclusion, Violence Against Ndigbo
The World Igbo Congress (WIC) has condemned what it called the economic exclusion and systematic violence against Ndigbo in Nigeria.
The condemnation was made at the 2024 World Igbo Congress (WIC) Annual Convention which recently held in Albuquerque, New Mexico, with the theme ‘Ka Anyi Jikota Aka Dozie Alaigbo’ (Let Us Unite to Rebuild Alaigbo).
The convention stated that the theme of the congress resonated with the growing urgency to “confront the existential threats facing Ndigbo in Nigeria and the diaspora, and to forge a united front in pursuit of self-preservation, progress, and justice.”
The convention reinstated the WIC’s commitment to the advancement, security, and protection of the Igbo people worldwide.
WIC’s communique, signed by Sir Festus Okere and Sir Chris Ogara, Chairman and Secretary General, respectively, read in part, “The aftermath of the 2023 Nigerian elections unleashed a wave of intensified ethnic hostility, specifically targeting Ndigbo.
“This hatred manifested in acts of destruction and seizure of Igbo-owned property, as
well as physical harm across the country.
“The spectre of Igbo-phobia has intensified and diversified amongst several other Nigerian ethnic groups within and outside Nigeria, finding expression in chilling calls like ‘Igbos must leave Lagos’, and ‘Kill Igbos wherever they reside’, echoed not just by fringe elements but also by some political figures, elites, and members of the ruling class.”
WIC regretted that the same negative insinuations were peddled even among the educated sectors of Nigerian society “where ethnic intolerance should be condemned”, adding that “there has been tacit complicity in the hatred and marginalisation of Ndi Igbo”.
The group made a clarion call for Ndigbo to remain steadfast, united, and determined to chart their own course amid the rising challenges.
According to the communique, “The political exclusion, economic exploitation, and systematic violence targeting Ndigbo are unacceptable to a people who have played a pivotal role in the growth and development of Nigeria. These injustices demand an immediate and organised response from all Igbo, at home and abroad.”
WIC said the reality of Igbo persecution cannot be denied, noting that “The escalating violence, economic sabotage, and social exclusion aimed at Ndigbo are part of a calculated programme to weaken and ultimately carry out the Second Genocide against the Igbos.”
It encouraged ‘The Aku Ruo Ulo’ (invest in Alaigbo) philosophy “that has therefore become the 11th Commandment for Ndi Igbo – an essential survival strategy that calls for Ndi Igbo to prioritise investment in their homeland.”
According to the communique, “We must fortify Alaigbo economically, politically, and socially in response to the systemic and existential threats we face.
“This 11th commandment underscores the non-negotiable need for Ndigbo to build their homeland into a bastion of strength and resilience, ensuring that Igbo land remains a secure refuge for its people.”
The congress acknowledged that the time for passive endurance had ended, adding that, “The Aku Ruo Ulo strategy is not just a reaction but a proactive, coherent response to the growing persecution of Ndigbo. It is time to channel our collective strength into rebuilding our homeland, empowering our communities, and ensuring
that Igbo prosperity continues to flourish.”
World Igbo Congress Condemns Economic Exclusion, Violence Against Ndigbo is first published on The Whistler Newspaper
