As Nigeria marks her 65th Independence Anniversary, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has called for national reflection and honest soul-searching.
The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation said Nigeria stands at a critical juncture and called for unity, equity, and justice in the journey toward building a truly inclusive and prosperous nation.
The national publicity secretary, Dr Ezechi Chukwu, stated this in a message conveying the remarks of the president-general of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Senator Azuta Mbata.
“Nigeria at 65 should not just be a celebration of age, but a sober reflection on the quality of life of its citizens.
“For Ohanaeze and the Igbo nation at large, we remain deeply committed to the ideals of unity, love, peace, justice and national development—but not at the cost of our dignity or continued marginalisation.
“The truth is that Ndigbo, wherever they reside—within Nigeria or abroad—have remained industrious and resilient. They have contributed immensely to the socio-economic fabric of our country, especially through commerce, innovation, education and culture.
“However, it is still clear that they remain burdened by systemic exclusion, unaddressed historical grievances, and the shrinking space for political and structural inclusion.”
Ohanaeze renewed its call for the immediate and unconditional release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, stating that:
“His continued detention has become a blot on the conscience of the nation. His case is no longer just a legal matter—it is a test of our collective commitment to justice, equity, and national healing.”
It also called on leaders across the country to govern with human kindness, equity, and empathy.
“No nation can endure indefinitely when a section of its population feels alienated or treated as second-class citizens. Nigeria must rise to a new dawn, where every child—whether born in Aba, Jos, Calabar, Katsina, Enugu or Kano—can aspire to lead, to thrive, and to belong.”
Ohanaeze also called on the federal government to recommit to constitutional reforms that will unleash the potential of all federating units, including Ala Igbo, noting it is not only a political necessity but a moral imperative.
