By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
The Ukomu Igala Organization (UIO) has strongly condemned the recent inclusion of the Igala Kingdom in Kogi State as part of the agitations for the so-called United States of Biafra Republic.
In a press statement signed by the National Leader, Elder David Abutu, and the Secretary of the Organization, Comrade Gabriel Edicha, the UIO unequivocally dissociated itself from the movement and denied any connection with the agitation.
The statement described the inclusion of the Igala nation in these discussions as “erroneous, deeply concerning, and provocative.”
While acknowledging their geographical proximity to Eastern Nigeria, the group emphasized that the Igala people have minimal historical or cultural ties to the United States of Biafra agitation. Furthermore, the statement asserted that no prominent Igala political or traditional leaders have supported this movement.
According to the press release, the inclusion is “fraudulent” and misleading, with no substantial basis.
The statement further reiterated:
“Igala Kingdom, under the traditional leadership of His Royal Majesty, Alaji Matthew Opaluwa Oguche-Akpa, the Attah Igala, considers Nigeria as its home and remains committed to sustaining its corporate existence and development.”
It also highlighted historical and geopolitical links connecting the Igala nation more closely to Nigeria’s North-Central region rather than the Southeast.
The Ukomu Igala Organization concluded by restating its firm stance:
“We dissociate the Igala nation from the purported proclamation and any publication listing us as participants in the agitation for the so-called United States of Biafra. We strongly believe in the Nigerian project and will continue working toward maintaining its unity.”
