(~ By Stanley Uzoaru, Daily Sun Newspaper)
A pro – Biafra group, the Indigenous People of Igbo Nation for Self-Determination (IPINS) and the Igbo-Biafra Nationalists Movement (IBN) led by its Convenor, Uche Mefor, gave reasons for its new approach to Biafra struggle.
The group in a statement by its spokesperson, Chukwunonso Edoziuno released to newsmen in Owerri on Monday explained that the Biafra nation of 1967 to 1970 is not the same as the Biafra of today.
According to the statement “The geographical configuration has changed, with the old eastern region now divided into the South East and South South.
Read Also: Igbo Biafra Nationalists focus on rights of South East region – Mefor (~ Originally Reported by Vanguard)
The Igbo-Biafra Nationalists Movement, IBN, on Sunday, said they were worried about the escalation of insecurity in the South East region. (~ Originally Reported by Vanguard)
“Many states in the South South region are not willing to join in the restoration of Biafra, making it impractical to revive the old eastern region (Biafra) as it was in 1967. This necessitates a new approach that recognizes the realities of the present.
Also, Edoziuno further noted that the unwillingness of other former component States in the zone has made it difficult for Biafra restoration, hence he said “it is important to consider a more realistic initiative. It would be unfair to force a restoration that only the Igbo Nation desires.
“Instead, allowing each component nation to pursue its own self-determination and political status can lead to more meaningful progress and development for all.
He listed other reasons to include “Self-determination for all”. According to him “Embracing self-determination for each component nation acknowledges their unique aspirations and allows them to chart their own path towards political and economic development.
“Granting autonomy or independence to the South-East, the Igbo Nation, Alaigbo as well as other nations within the former Biafra, respects their right to determine their own future and fosters a sense of empowerment and self-governance.
He also argued that “reduced territory does not negate self-determination. Explaining he said “Even though the reality as we have it now is that not all the former component nations are willing to restore Biafra, it does not mean that the first Biafra Republic cannot be revived.
“The territory of the old eastern region may be adjusted or reduced, but this does not invalidate the aspirations of the Igbo people for self-determination. The focus should be on accommodating the desires of willing partners rather than fixating on maintaining the exact boundaries of the past.” Edoziuno stated
