An Anambra State-born human rights lawyer and lead counsel to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, Esq., has renewed his commitment to humanitarian and pro bono legal causes, particularly the defence of IPOB members and other vulnerable persons, following an award presented to him in recognition of his legal service to the organisation and oppressed.
Ejiofor disclosed this in a statement titled, “An Award of Gratitude, A Moment of Reflection, and a Renewed Call to Service,” issued on Wednesday, after a group he described as “ezigbo ụmụ Chineke” visited him in Abuja to honour him for what they described as his contributions and committed legal service.
Reflecting on the recognition, Ejiofor said the significance of the award went beyond the material value of the token presented to him, describing it as a reminder that sacrifices made in the course of serving others were not entirely forgotten.
He said the recognition was particularly meaningful given his professional journey and involvement in defending what he described as oppressed and downtrodden people, including persons whose actions, he said, were connected to the peaceful and civil exercise of their right to self-determination.
According to him, there had been periods when the difficult encounters, personal risks and life-threatening experiences he endured while providing legal services appeared to have been consigned to history.
“Yet, from time to time, individuals who benefited directly or indirectly from such counsel return, not necessarily to reopen the past, but to say, ‘We remember,’” he said.
Ejiofor, who holds the traditional title of Dunu-Ezeugosinachi, said the visit also provided an opportunity for him to reflect on the experiences and challenges encountered by the people of the South-East, as well as the lessons arising from their turbulent journey.
He said the reflection reinforced the importance of wisdom, focus, civility and fidelity to truth, particularly during periods of crisis and intense provocation.
The lawyer also reflected on what he described as the consequences of abandoning principles and values in the pursuit of a cause, arguing that no cause, regardless of how noble it might appear, could ultimately survive the corruption of its principles, abandonment of civility or disregard for human life.
He said events over time had brought greater clarity to issues that were previously unclear, adding that the lessons should encourage greater restraint, responsibility and commitment to peaceful engagement.
Ejiofor further expressed gratitude to Mazi Chika Edoziem and the Directorate of State (DOS), acknowledging what he described as their courage, sacrifices and commitment to the Biafran struggle.
“Whatever may be said about the difficult journey of our people, their courage, sacrifices and commitment to the cause remain significant chapters in the history of the struggle,” he said.
He added that there had been moments when the issues surrounding the Ala-Igbo question could have degenerated further, with innocent people potentially bearing the consequences.
Ejiofor said his continued prayer was for the restoration of peace, justice and stability in the South-East, urging all concerned to avoid actions capable of worsening tensions or endangering lives.
He described the award as a “solemn reminder of the responsibility that accompanies service to humanity,” rather than merely a celebration of an individual.
The human rights lawyer said the gesture had strengthened his resolve to continue contributing, within the limits of his profession and conscience, to humanitarian and pro bono causes, especially in defence of vulnerable people and those who might otherwise have no voice.
“I received this award with profound gratitude, humility and every sense of appreciation. I acknowledge it not as a celebration of an individual, but as a solemn reminder of the responsibility that accompanies service to humanity,” he said.
Ejiofor thanked the group for taking the time to visit and honour him, describing the gesture as deeply touching and a further encouragement to remain committed to service.
He attributed whatever achievements he had recorded throughout his journey to God, saying the Almighty had preserved and sustained him through difficult periods.
He also offered prayers for the healing and restoration of the land.
