The Igala Youth Council (IYC) in Kogi State has disassociated the Igala nation from being labeled as part of the proposed “United States of Biafra” by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
The council expressed strong disapproval over IPOB’s unilateral inclusion of the Igala people in their vision of a 40-state secessionist entity, emphasizing that such actions were made without consultation or consent from the Igala nation.
According to a statement released on Monday in Lokoja, the capital of Kogi State, the decision was reached during an emergency meeting held on December 1, 2024, convened to address a viral video outlining IPOB’s plan for their proposed nation. The video sparked widespread concern among Igala leaders and citizens.
In the statement signed by the National Publicity Secretary of the council, Michael Joshua, the IYC categorically rejected IPOB’s attempt to include the Igala people in their agitation for secession. Joshua stressed that the Igala nation values its autonomy within the Federal Republic of Nigeria and firmly opposes being dragged into IPOB’s controversial agenda.
“The Igala people were never consulted, informed, or invited to discuss IPOB’s proposal,” the statement read. “We find it deeply disrespectful and unacceptable that IPOB would unilaterally include the Igala nation in their so-called United States of Biafra. The Igala nation demands good governance, equity, and development for all its citizens within the Nigerian federation, not inclusion in IPOB’s misguided agenda.”
The IYC noted that while some view the group’s demands as legitimate advocacy for self-determination, others perceive their actions as a significant threat to Nigeria’s unity and stability.
Particular reference was made to IPOB’s controversial strategies, such as the imposition of weekly “sit-at-home” orders, which have severely disrupted economic activities and daily life in the Southeast region. The IYC called for dialogue and good governance as solutions to Nigeria’s challenges, rather than divisive actions that harm national cohesion.
“We encourage all Igala people at home and abroad to ignore IPOB’s assertions. The Igala nation remains a proud and integral part of Nigeria and will not be swayed by divisive rhetoric,” the statement concluded.
