Citypost News Desk
The United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide has responded to rising concerns surrounding the advisability of conferring awards during a period marked by immense challenges for the Igbo nation. In a public statement signed by its Director-General, Justice Alpha Ikpeama, and Director of Media and Publicity, Prof. Obasi Igwe, the Council emphasized the importance of unity and strategic focus in addressing the existential issues facing the Igbo people.
The statement, issued on November 28, 2024, comes in the wake of public inquiries regarding the perceived prioritization of awards amidst ongoing insecurity, economic hardship, and the controversial detention of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
Key Clarifications
UNIEC clarified that the proposed awards are not their initiative but rather that of the Great Igbo Achievers Legacy Awards, a separate body. While the two organizations may collaborate when necessary, the Council underscored that they have not yet approved or recommended any recipients, nor has a date been set for the event. The awards, according to the statement, aim to recognize industrialists, business leaders, and intellectuals contributing to Igbo advancement, not necessarily politicians.
The Council acknowledged the skepticism surrounding awards during trying times but noted that such initiatives often serve to inspire hope and unity among the people. They emphasized the need for proper criteria and thoughtful deliberation before proceeding with the awards program.
It is important to note that honouring deserving personalities in any human enclave has a way of fostering unity, development and love for one another. Last year Ohaneze Ndigbo organized Heros Awards for accomplished Igbo Sons and Daughters which eventually inspired the awardees to do more, therefore Ndigbo will be playing into the hands of the enemy by allowing our illustrious sons and daughters scatter outside the South-East region, rather than occasionally initiating ideas that will bring everyone home.
The truth remains that whatever was left of the Ohanaeze had been distributing nearly annual Awards, including only recently last year’s “Heros Awards,” when Dim Ojukwu, the Ikemba was so posthumously honoured, and nobody raised any issues. The same Ohanaeze was about to award again this year but for many issues beyond their control.
Advocacy for Igbo Emancipation
Beyond the awards issue, UNIEC highlighted its unwavering commitment to the Igbo cause. The statement detailed the Council’s ongoing efforts to address critical issues such as:
Insecurity in Igboland: Calling for an end to the orchestrated killings and abductions targeting Igbo youth.
Unlawful Detentions: Advocating for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and other detained Igbo individuals.
Economic Empowerment: Campaigning for the modernization of Igbo ports, including Igweocha, Ubani, and Opobo, to revitalize the region’s economy.
Unity of the Igbo Nation: Promoting the integration of the coastal and interior Igbo regions for a stronger, unified front.
The Council also reiterated its role in pushing for restructuring, addressing historical grievances like the economic blockade since the Civil War, and advocating for the creation of Anioma State to foster regional balance.
UNIEC urged all Igbo sons and daughters to unite and support the collective fight for survival and progress. The statement also touched on the upcoming election of the Ohanaeze President-General, scheduled for January 10, 2025, emphasizing the need for consensus among the three Rivers State candidates to avoid unnecessary divisions.
The Council concluded by inviting patriotic Igbo individuals, including the youth, to join UNIEC in its mission to safeguard and uplift the Igbo nation.
Prof. Obasi Igwe, speaking on behalf of the Council, stated:
“Our people are enduring an unprecedented load of challenges. This is not the time for unnecessary distractions but for pooling resources and energies toward Igbo survival and renaissance. Let us all bring our contributions, big or small, to the table.”
As the Igbo nation grapples with these existential challenges, UNIEC remains steadfast in its advocacy, urging all stakeholders to prioritize the collective interest and chart a path toward prosperity and peace.
For more information on UNIEC’s activities or to join their efforts, interested individuals are encouraged to reach out to the Council directly.
