A Call for Unity and Political Engagement Among the Igbo and Yoruba Communities
In a recent event held at The Great Ville Hotel in Surulere, Lagos, the League of Igbo Clergy International brought together the Igbo and Yoruba communities to discuss the importance of peace and unity in the face of growing ethnic tensions. The symposium, titled “Igbo, Yoruba, the way forward,” aimed to address the role of politicians and social media in fostering discord among these groups.
Dr. Adetokumbo Pearse, a prominent figure in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and convener of Reset Lagos PDP, emphasized the need for unity among the Igbo and Yoruba communities. He highlighted that unity is essential not only for peace but also for political success. Pearse stated:
“Apart from the level of insecurity in the country and crippling poverty of the economy, there’s a major thing that permeates everything which is the unity of the country, good governance, fairness and equity, and that’s the reason the day’s meeting is very important.”
He further stressed that unity among the Igbo and Yoruba communities is crucial because it strengthens their collective power, enabling them to win elections and benefit from democratic processes.
The Role of Politics in National Life
Pearse also underscored the significance of politics in everyday life, noting that it is present in various aspects such as religious institutions, government, and even social gatherings. He warned that without active participation in politics, individuals could be marginalized or even silenced by those in power.
“If the people making the law are not in support of yourself they may write you out of existence, they may write you to jail for life, this is why politics is so important.”
Dr. Bolaji Akinyemi, another speaker at the event, pointed out the negative influence of social media in spreading discord. He criticized the lack of control over social media platforms by opinion leaders, who have failed to curb the spread of misinformation and hatred.
“When two brothers fight and kill themselves, outsiders and even their enemies will inherit their property.”
Addressing Ethnic Tensions Through Unity
Dr. Dom Ferguson, President General of the League of Igbo Clergy International, explained the rationale behind the symposium. He mentioned that the Igbo community, particularly through organizations like Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has been fragmented and unable to address issues effectively. As a result, the Igbo clergy stepped in to promote peace and unity.
“You see, the people that supposed to handle this are the Igbo Speaking Community or Ohanaeze Ndigbo, but because of their fragmented nature and factions, so we have to take it upon ourselves…”
Ferguson also expressed concerns about the increasing tension on social media and the need for dialogue between different ethnic groups. He outlined plans for local government solidarity visits to engage with traditional rulers and community leaders across Lagos.
The Need for Political Participation
The discussions also focused on the importance of the Igbo community’s involvement in national politics. Pearse highlighted the historical contributions of Igbo leaders, such as Dr. Alex Ekwueme, who played a significant role in Nigerian politics after the Civil War. However, he criticized recent political developments, where Igbo interests were sidelined.
“One of the founding fathers of PDP, Dr Alex Ekwueme, he played politics, that’s why immediately after the Civil War, an Igbo man rose to become the Vice President of this country.”
Pearse also pointed out the lack of representation of the Igbo community in current political parties, emphasizing the need for greater engagement and strategic alliances.
A Vision for the Future
The symposium concluded with a shared vision of coexistence and mutual respect among the Igbo and Yoruba communities. Speakers urged the public to move beyond tribal divisions and focus on common goals.
“Without the Igbos, the Yoruba man will not succeed in some areas, without the Yorubas, the Igbos also will not succeed in some areas…”
They also called for a more inclusive approach to politics, where all ethnic groups have equal opportunities to participate and contribute to the nation’s development.
