Forty-four years after their first attempt at secession collapsed within three years, Igbos remain convinced that Nigerians should have the right to secede and that this should be clearly stated in the country’s constitution.

Constitutional law guru, Prof. Ben Nwabueze, gave this indication yesterday in Enugu, the political capital of Igbo land and former capital of the shortlived Republic of Biafra.

Addressing a press conference on the Igbo position on the National Conference scheduled to hold from March to May as articulated by the Igbo Leaders of Thought, of which he is National Chairman.

The pioneer Secretary General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo summarised the position to be canvassed by Igbo delegates at the conference to include the right of secession or self determination, adoption of the regions as the basis of the federating units and establishment of regional or state police to enable the governors or regional leaders enforce their authority and law.

The erudite constitutional lawyer reiterated that he and former Vice President, Dr. Alex Ekwueme, would not participate in the conference.

“We are not going to be delegates sitting in the hall exposed, taking all abuses, bombardments; but we will stand behind. Our role should be that of guidance,” Nwabueze said.

He, however, assured that they would support and guide the delegates from behind the scene to ensure that Ndigbo get the best from the forthcoming conference.

•Photo shows Prof. Nwabueze.