The United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC), Worldwide, has emphasized that the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), and the resolution of insecurity and killings targeting the Igbo people, particularly the youth, are their primary concerns.

In a statement issued by Justice Alpha Ikpeama (Director General) and Prof. Obasi Igwe (Director, Media and Publicity), UNIEC expressed discontent over the unlawful detention and torture of Nnamdi Kanu and other detained Igbo individuals.

These injustices, they noted, have overshadowed the celebratory mood for an upcoming awards event being organized by their sister body, the Great Igbo Achievers Legacy.

The elders, however, endorsed the awards, acknowledging its potential to motivate the recipients and inspire excellence among the Igbo people despite the current hardships.

Igbo Unity and Development: UNIEC called for the restoration of Igbo unity and emphasized the need to address historical grievances such as the economic blockade since 1967.

Infrastructure Renewal: The group highlighted the urgent need for dredging and modernizing Igbo coastal ports (Igweocha, Ubani, and Opobo) to reconnect the interior and reinvigorate economic activities.

Counterbalancing National Development: They advocated for the establishment of an Eastern development hub to complement the existing Western hub in the Yoruba region.

Ohanaeze Leadership Rotation: The group reaffirmed their stance on rotating the Ohanaeze President-General position to Rivers Igbo as part of efforts to strengthen Igbo unity.

Rejection of Anti-Igbo Narratives: They condemned the geopolitical restructuring that marginalizes the Igbo and dismantled myths about the Igbo being ?landlocked.?

UNIEC clarified that the awards, still in their planning stages, are intended for Igbo achievers in business, industry, and innovation rather than politicians. They stressed that no member of their council had approached anyone to lobby for recognition.

The council reiterated their commitment to encouraging excellence while addressing the critical issues of insecurity and marginalization that plague the Igbo people. (Vanguard)