As Nigeria celebrates 25 years of continuous democracy, different major ethnic groups have evaluated the progress and voiced dissatisfaction, pointing out marginalization and unfulfilled expectations.
These voices include prominent Igbo organizations such as Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Alaigbo Development Foundation (ADF), Igbo Lawyers Association (ILA), and Coalition of South East Youth Leaders (COSEYL). Chief Chuks Muoma, SAN, leader of the Igbo Lawyers Association, expressed significant displeasure regarding the treatment of the Igbo people in Nigeria since 1999.
Muoma condemned successive governments for neglecting to meet the needs and uphold the rights of the Igbo community.
"In my opinion, no administration since 1999 has done anything to favour the Igbos in Nigeria. We are being marginalized in every sphere of Nigerian life, be it in socioeconomic development, industrialization, positioning and rehabilitation of critical capital infrastructure," Muoma stated.
According to a report in The Sun, Muoma underscored the systematic marginalization experienced by the Igbo people, citing substantial deficiencies in industrialization, socioeconomic progress, and essential infrastructure in the Southeast region. He stressed the importance of restructuring Nigeria to empower regions to manage their resources and play a more active role in national governance funded by the federal government.
Furthermore, Muoma expressed significant worry regarding the reported incidents of authorities allegedly harassing, intimidating, and detaining Igbo individuals. He specifically referred to Nnamdi Kanu, the head of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), and many young Igbo people who are allegedly detained solely due to their ethnic background.
“Our people are hounded, harassed and intimidated by the powers that be. Nnamdi Kanu, and many uncounted young Igbos are languishing in detention for reasons that they are Igbo. We have nothing to celebrate for now,” Muoma lamented.