As Nigeria marks 25 years of uninterrupted democracy, various major ethnic nationalities have assessed the progress and expressed disappointment, citing marginalization and unmet expectations.
Prominent among these voices are Igbo groups, including Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Alaigbo Development Foundation (ADF), Igbo Lawyers Association (ILA), and Coalition of South East Youth Leaders (COSEYL).
Chief Chuks Muoma, SAN, leader of the Igbo Lawyers Association, voiced strong dissatisfaction with the treatment of the Igbo people in Nigeria since 1999.
Muoma criticized successive administrations for failing to address the needs and rights of the Igbo community.
“In my opinion, no administration since 1999 has done anything to favour the Igbos in Nigeria. We are being marginalized in every sphere of Nigerian life, be it in socioeconomic development, industrialization, positioning and rehabilitation of critical capital infrastructure,” Muoma stated.
According to a report published by The Sun, Muoma highlighted the systemic marginalization of the Igbo people, pointing to significant gaps in industrialization, socioeconomic development, and critical infrastructure within the Southeast region. He emphasized the need for restructuring Nigeria to allow regions to control their resources and contribute to national governance through the federal purse.
Additionally, Muoma expressed deep concern over the alleged harassment, intimidation, and detention of Igbo individuals by authorities.
He specifically mentioned Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), and numerous young Igbo individuals who are reportedly detained solely because of their ethnicity.
“Our people are hounded, harassed and intimidated by the powers that be. Nnamdi Kanu, and many uncounted young Igbos are languishing in detention for reasons that they are Igbo. We have nothing to celebrate for now,” Muoma lamented..…….See More
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