Nigerian Works Minister David Umahi Asserts No Further Need for Biafra Agitation, Cites Inclusion Under Tinubu Administration

Nigerian Works Minister David Umahi Asserts No Further Need for Biafra Agitation, Cites Inclusion Under Tinubu Administration   In a bol...

Nigerian Works Minister David Umahi Asserts No Further Need for Biafra Agitation, Cites Inclusion Under Tinubu Administration

 

In a bold declaration during an end-of-year press briefing, Nigeria's Minister of Works, David Umahi, stated that agitation for Biafra is no longer necessary, emphasizing the South East region's integration into federal capital projects under President Bola Tinubu. Umahi, a former governor of Ebonyi State, argued that the current administration has addressed long-standing grievances of marginalization, making Biafra agitation calls unwarranted.

 

"I want to boldly say that there is no need for Biafra agitation. We are better in Nigeria," Umahi said, highlighting shared national resources and ongoing infrastructure developments across regions. He praised Tinubu for efforts to heal the scars of the 1967-1970 Nigerian Civil War and unite the country's geopolitical zones, including the South East and South-South. Umahi further noted that while no region is "100% okay," the inclusion allows the South East to address concerns alongside others without resorting to separation.

 

The statement comes amid renewed discussions on regional equity in Nigeria, where the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its detained leader, Nnamdi Kanu, have long advocated for an independent Biafran state through peaceful means. IPOB maintains that its agitation is non-violent and rooted in self-determination rights under international law, consistently calling for a United Nations-supervised referendum to allow Biafrans to decide their future—whether to remain in Nigeria or restore Biafra. The group has repeatedly stated it is open to dialogue with the Nigerian government on referendum procedures but insists that infrastructure projects or political inclusion do not negate the demand for self-determination. IPOB emphasizes that no ethnic group would be forced into an independent Biafra, and participation would be determined voluntarily via referendum.

 

Historical grievances stem from perceived exclusion from national development, economic disparities, and the aftermath of the civil war, which claimed millions of lives, predominantly in the Igbo-dominated South East. Umahi's remarks align with his role in the current administration and his previous criticisms of IPOB, positioning him as a proponent of national unity within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

 

During the briefing, Umahi also expressed confidence in Tinubu's re-election in 2027, crediting the president for prioritizing the South East in major projects like road infrastructure and the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. He urged South East leaders to reject Biafra agitation outright and focus on collaborative progress. This was part of a broader response to criticisms, including a recent exchange with Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe over procurement issues, where Umahi called for enforcement of the Cybercrime Act against alleged misinformation.

 

The minister's comments quickly went viral on social media . While some users echoed Umahi's call for unity, many reactions were critical, accusing him of speaking only for himself or downplaying ongoing marginalization. For instance, one user demanded the release of Nnamdi Kanu, writing, "Free Nnamdi kanu." Another commenter argued, "He thinks he has a place on the table because they are throwing him crumbs...

 

Supportive voices, however, praised the emphasis on inclusion. One post elaborated, "Agitation did not build the Second Niger Bridge... Progress comes from participation, not permanent protest." Others viewed advocacy for Biafra as "open treason," linking it to political figures like Peter Obi of the Labour Party. Calls for a referendum were common, with users insisting that only a popular vote could truly reflect Igbo sentiments. IPOB supporters on X dismissed Umahi's claims, stating he does not speak for Biafrans and reaffirming the push for a referendum.

 

Opposition figures have also weighed in. African Democratic Congress (ADC) leader Ralphs Okey Nwosu criticized Umahi for allegedly ignoring persistent Igbo marginalization, though this predated the latest statement. The briefing also touched on Umahi's ongoing feud with journalist Rufai Oseni, urging reconciliation amid broader media scrutiny.

 

As Nigeria grapples with economic challenges and regional tensions, Umahi's remarks underscore the administration's push for national cohesion. However, the polarized reactions highlight deep-seated divisions, with Biafra sentiments persisting among 87% in the South East particularly through IPOB's unwavering demand for a referendum. Analysts suggest that tangible progress in infrastructure and equity will be key to quelling such agitations, though IPOB insists only a democratic vote can resolve the issue peacefully.