As an Ikwerre man from Rumuewhor community in Emohua LGA Rivers State I am a proud ancient Igbo man.

As an Ikwerre man from Rumuewhor community in Emohua LGA Rivers State I am a proud ancient Igbo man.

Shan George recently declared herself an Igbo lady from Cross River State. Though her father is British, her mother is Igbo from Ediba in Abi LGA of Cross River, which makes her a full-fledged citizen of Nigeria under Section 25(1)(b) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). Her revelation sparked debate and confusion, as many questioned how Cross River could be “Igbo,” given the false narrative played over the decades that the Igbo are traditionally associated with just five Eastern states. This incident underscores a widespread lack of awareness about the ethnic configurations of Nigeria’s heterogeneous states.

In reality, Igbos are present in at least thirteen states of Nigeria, particularly in the old Eastern Region, from which the present South-South states emerged—and Ediba clan in Abi LGA, Cross River State, is one of them. Perhaps if not for the popularity of Shan George, many would remain ignorant of this fact. Interestingly, the Igbo communities reduced to minority status by the disruptive federal powers of the then military era are beginning to speak up, defying whatever consequences such bold movements may attract.

The time has come for all Igbos living in the South South, South East and North Central to arise and speak out, declare your identity without fear. How long are we going to hide the identity of our ancestors? No part of Igbo land denying their identity is as developed as the South East so why the denial when even with your denial you still haven’t been recognized or represented? Enough!

As an Ikwerre man from Rumuewhor community in Emohua LGA Rivers State I am a proud ancient Igbo man.