Forget Biafra, Igbo No Longer Marginalised — Umahi

Forget Biafra, Igbo No Longer Marginalised — Umahi

The Minister of Works and former Governor of Ebonyi State, Senator David Umahi, has dismissed renewed calls for the creation of a separate Biafran state, insisting that the agitation is no longer justified given what he described as the unprecedented inclusion of the Igbo in Nigeria’s national development under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Umahi made this assertion while speaking at a public forum, where he highlighted what he called a new era of integration and recognition for the South-East in national governance and infrastructure development. According to him, the present administration has demonstrated sincerity in addressing long-standing grievances of the region through strategic appointments and massive federal projects.
The minister noted that key federal positions currently occupied by Igbo sons and daughters reflect a level of trust and inclusion that was previously lacking. He stressed that the South-East is now fully represented in the decision-making process at the highest levels of government, making the narrative of marginalisation outdated.
Umahi also pointed to major infrastructure projects being executed across the South-East, particularly federal road constructions and rehabilitations, as clear evidence of the federal government’s commitment to the region’s development. He said the scale and pace of ongoing projects under his ministry are unprecedented and aimed at boosting economic growth and connectivity in the zone.
While acknowledging the pains of the past and the frustrations that fueled separatist agitations, the former governor urged Igbo youths to channel their energy toward unity, economic productivity, and nation-building rather than division. He warned that continued agitation for secession could further isolate the region and slow down its progress.
He called on political, traditional, and religious leaders in the South-East to educate the younger generation on the benefits of a united Nigeria, adding that constructive engagement with the federal government remains the most effective path to sustainable development.
Umahi reaffirmed his loyalty to President Tinubu’s administration and pledged to continue using his position to attract more developmental projects to the South-East, insisting that the future of the Igbo people is best secured within a united and inclusive Nigeria.