Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has voiced serious concerns over the ongoing marginalization and prejudice against the Southeast region of Nigeria. Speaking to The Sun, Iwuanyanwu highlighted the uneven distribution of government appointments and the lack of significant development projects, particularly in the railroad sector.
Iwuanyanwu emphasized that the persistent denial of fair federal resources and representation has led to structural unfairness and inequality in the Southeast, a region noted for its economic vitality and vibrant trade culture.
“South East is the only geopolitical zone in Nigeria that has only five states, whereas other zones have between six and seven states. Forty-eight ministers were appointed by Mr. President,” Iwuanyanwu remarked.
“By law of federal character, the Southeast should have eight ministers, but we have only five, while some other zones have up to 10.”
Iwuanyanwu also criticized the government's neglect in developing railway infrastructure in the Southeast, despite the region's significant reliance on trade and transportation. “Despite all the efforts to develop railway infrastructure in Nigeria, nothing was done in the Southeast, even though our people are traders who travel a lot,” he added.
These comments come at a time when calls for greater equity and representation are growing louder across Nigeria. The Southeast's exclusion from federal projects and appointments not only hinders regional development but also exacerbates feelings of disenfranchisement among its people.