By Tony Okafor, Awka
A former Minister of Aviation, Osita Chidoka, has called on political actors across the country to refrain from making sweeping statements about the collective political choices of the Igbo people ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Chidoka appealed to what he described as “Igbo political gladiators” to freely canvass support for candidates of their choice, but cautioned against dragging the entire Igbo nation into partisan narratives.
“Campaign freely, support whomever you wish, but leave Ndigbo as a collective out of your statements,” he said.
The former minister stressed that the Igbo people have never operated as a monolithic political bloc dictated by any central authority, noting that their voting patterns have historically reflected independent thinking shaped by their understanding of collective interests.
According to him, “From 1960 to date, Ndigbo have consistently voted in line with what we believe to be our interest. The Igbo people have never operated as a monolithic political bloc directed by any single voice or authority.”
He further noted that there is no central parliament or institution that determines a unified electoral position for the Igbo, emphasising that their strength lies in individual agency and diversity of opinion.
Chidoka also reflected on the historical experiences of the Igbo people, which he said have significantly shaped their political outlook.
He cited episodes such as displacement, the transatlantic slave trade, colonial disruptions, pogroms, and the Nigerian civil war as defining moments that have influenced their resilience and political consciousness.
“That history is not a light one,” he stated, adding that despite these challenges, the Igbo people have continued to rebuild and adapt.
The former minister urged politicians to approach discussions about Igbo identity with caution and respect, particularly in moments of intense political contestation.
He warned against diminishing the collective resilience and enduring legacy of the people in the pursuit of short-term political gains.
“What may be described today as political setbacks must be situated within the broader historical arc of a people defined by resilience, enterprise, and renewal,” he said.
Chidoka concluded by calling for dignity and mutual respect in political engagement, urging all stakeholders to recognise the right of the Igbo people to make independent electoral choices.
“Engage robustly in politics, but allow Ndigbo the dignity of agency. Respect our long arc of survival. Respect our right to choose. Respect the wisdom of our people,” he added.
He reinforced his message with a traditional Igbo proverb, “Uche bụ akpa; onye ọ bụla na-ebu nke ya,” underscoring the principle of individual responsibility in decision-making.
Chidoka also noted that Igbo values remain anchored on “Uche, Uchu, and Egwu Chukwu,” which he described as guiding principles for conduct and collective identity.
