Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, has called on residents and citizens of the Southeast region to intensify their prayers for divine intervention amidst the ongoing challenges facing the region. The call comes ahead of the 2024 Igbo Day celebration, themed “Ozoemela (Never Again),” which aims to unite Ndigbo in their pursuit of regional development and healing.
In a statement released on Sunday, Ohanaeze’s Secretary-General, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, expressed deep concern over the longstanding issues plaguing the Igbo nation, particularly the socio-political marginalization and insecurity that have severely impacted the Southeast. He emphasized the importance of collective action and reflection as the community prepares for the upcoming commemoration.
“As the sacred narrative of our people unfolds, we, the esteemed leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, rise in unity and profound concern to address the grievous plight confronting the Igbo nation on this year’s commemoration of Igbo Day,” Isiguzoro stated. “Our collective hearts are heavy with the unspeakable anguish wrought by decades of oppression, socio-political marginalization, and insecurity that have plagued our homeland since the amalgamation of Nigeria in 1914.”
Isiguzoro highlighted the dire situation in the Southeast, describing it as a “crucible of suffering” due to escalating insecurity and governance deficiencies. He pointed out the erosion of cultural values and norms as outlined in the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Constitution, noting that the ongoing marginalization has had a profound impact on Igbo communities both within the Southeast and in minority Igbo-speaking areas in states like Benue, Kogi, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta, and Rivers.
The Secretary-General also expressed concern for Igbo business communities in Northern and Western Nigeria, who face unjust challenges that threaten their livelihoods. He called for unity among Ndigbo, both at home and in the diaspora, to confront these adversities with resilience and determination.
The 2024 Igbo Day celebration, scheduled for September 29th, will be marked by a series of commemorative events, including church services and prayers. Isiguzoro urged Ndigbo in the diaspora to observe a moment of silence at 12 noon in their respective time zones, in honor of the many lives lost to violence, ethnic strife, and state-induced calamities.
“In light of these profound adversities, we extend our commendations to the indomitable spirit of every Igbo man and woman who has exhibited remarkable resilience in the face of relentless provocations and confrontations,” Isiguzoro said. “The tenacity and entrepreneurial spirit of the Igbo people have historically served as the backbone of economic vitality across Nigeria and beyond, underpinning a legacy of 110 years filled with selfless contributions to our nation and our continent.”
Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s statement also paid tribute to the sacrifices of past and present Igbo heroes, including those who suffered during significant historical events such as the 1929 Aba Women’s War, the Enugu coal mine incident, the September 1966 massacres, the Asaba Massacre of 1968, and the Biafran Civil War. The organization vowed to continue honoring these memories while working towards healing and reconciliation.
The central theme of the 2024 Igbo Day Prayers Conference, “Ozoemela” (Never Again), serves as a call to collectively forge a path towards healing and reconciliation. It encourages Ndigbo to let go of past grievances and focus on renewing hope through prayer, forgiveness, and a collective drive for justice.
The day will also include traditional rites and Muslim prayers, culminating in the erection of monumental structures in Asaba, Delta State, in memory of the Asaba Massacre. These structures will serve as both a reminder of past tragedies and a declaration of the community’s commitment to pursuing the common good.
“As we gather in prayer, Ohanaeze Ndigbo seeks the intercession of God Almighty to heal our land, mend the rift created by years of oppression, and bless us with a new beginning characterized by peace and mutual respect,” the statement concluded. “While our tongues may differ, our hearts remain united in the spirit of brotherhood.”
The 2024 Igbo Day celebration stands as a testament to the enduring strength and resilience of the Igbo people, as they continue to strive for justice, peace, and unity in the face of ongoing challenges.
