United States–based Igbo groups have faulted the Minister of Works, David Umahi, over his claim that the Federal Government under President Bola Tinubu has addressed the marginalisation of the South-East, saying he lacks the mandate to speak for Ndigbo.
In a joint statement issued on Saturday, the groups described Umahi’s remarks as misleading and self-serving, insisting that the challenges confronting the region remain unresolved.
“Our attention has been drawn to an unguarded statement by Senator David Umahi that Ndigbo should forget Biafra agitation because the federal government has addressed all the challenges of Ndigbo,” the statement read. “We wish to remind him that he does not have the mandate to speak for Ndigbo. He should not allocate to himself powers he does not have.”
The statement was signed by Dr Sylvester Onyia, President of the American Veterans of Igbo Descent; Ben Nwankwo for Ambassadors for Self-Determination; and Maxwell Dede for The Rising Sun.
The groups said claims that Igbo marginalisation had ended were far from reality, citing what they described as continued infrastructural neglect in the South-East. They pointed to the abandoned Umuahia–Enugu railway line, noting that rail projects in other regions are operational.
They also raised concerns over what they called unequal political representation at the federal level, adding that the South-East has fewer ministers compared to other zones.
According to them, the region still lacks a functional seaport and cargo airport despite its commercial importance, as well as major federal industries and maritime projects.
On the continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, the groups described his incarceration as a symbol of injustice against the Igbo people and demanded his immediate release.
They also criticised the Ebube Agu regional security outfit, alleging abuses in parts of the South-East and calling for accountability.
The groups stressed that the agitation for Biafra was not about political appointments but about justice, dignity and self-respect, insisting that Umahi’s position does not reflect the views of Ndigbo.
