By Abigail Philip David
The Igala Youth Council (IYC) has firmly rejected the inclusion of the Igala nation as part of the proposed “United States of Biafra” by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
In a statement released on Monday in Lokoja, the capital of Kogi State, the organization condemned IPOB for listing the Igala among its envisioned 40-state Biafran nation without consultation or consent.
“This strong stance was adopted during an emergency meeting held on December 1, 2024, in response to a viral video outlining IPOB’s proposed plan,” the statement, signed by the IYC National Publicity Secretary, Michael Joshua, noted.
The council emphasized that the Igala people were neither consulted nor invited to discuss any aspect of this proposal. As such, they unequivocally rejected IPOB’s attempt to include the Igala in its secessionist agenda.
“The Igala nation seeks good governance for all its people within the framework of a united Nigeria,” the statement read. “We refuse to be dragged into IPOB’s divisive and disruptive plans.”
The council further criticized IPOB’s activities, highlighting the contentious nature of its actions. While some view the group’s agitation as a legitimate call for self-determination, others see it as a threat to Nigeria’s unity. IPOB’s methods, including the controversial weekly “sit-at-home” orders, were also condemned for their negative impact on the economy and daily life in the Southeast region.
The IYC urged all Igala people worldwide to disregard IPOB’s claims and continue their lawful pursuits within Nigeria, reaffirming their commitment to peace and unity.
