Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex socio-cultural body representing the Igbo people, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to issue a formal apology for the injustices suffered by the Igbo during the Nigeria-Biafra War. The group is also demanding ₦10 trillion in reparations to address the destruction and loss of lives that resulted from the conflict.
This appeal follows a recent statement by former military ruler, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), in which he clarified that the January 1966 coup was not an “Igbo coup.” Ohanaeze described his remarks as a significant step in correcting historical misconceptions that have fueled division and marginalization.
The group expressed concern over what it termed systemic discrimination against the Igbo people since the war, citing issues such as political exclusion, economic stagnation in the Southeast, the non-functionality of critical infrastructure like the Calabar seaport, and the implementation of the quota system, which it argues has disadvantaged the region.
“As part of our long-standing demands, previously presented before the 1999 Justice Oputa-led Judicial Commission on Human Rights Violations, we insist that the federal government must acknowledge and address these historical injustices,” Ohanaeze stated.
The organization insisted that the atrocities committed under General Yakubu Gowon’s administration, particularly the military bombardments that led to mass casualties, must be formally recognized.
“We call on President Tinubu to tender a public and unreserved apology on behalf of past military administrations. The war left deep scars on the Igbo people, and acknowledging these grievances is essential for national healing,” the statement read.
Ohanaeze further stressed that the ₦10 trillion reparation demand is not just about monetary compensation but about recognizing the immense human and infrastructural losses suffered by the Igbo.
“This compensation represents more than financial restitution; it is a necessary step in addressing the deep-rooted effects of the war. Decades later, the Igbo nation is still grappling with the consequences of that conflict,” the group added.
While extending an olive branch to Babangida and others involved in past events, Ohanaeze urged President Tinubu to seize this moment to promote national unity through genuine reconciliation and restorative justice. The organization emphasized that a public apology and reparations would mark a meaningful step towards rebuilding trust and fostering a more inclusive Nigeria.