The Biafra De Facto Customary Government (BDFCG) has said it stands united with Prof. Banji Akintoye and allies in advocating for the renegotiation of Nigeria, echoing the sentiments of the Yoruba Self-Determination Movement.
It commend Prof. Akintoye for echoing the longstanding stance of Biafrans, as articulated by esteemed elders such as Late HRM Eze Ozobu, and the late Dr. Dozie Ikedife, who championed the inherent right to self-determination of the Biafran people, adding that the sentiment is further echoed in the ongoing legal battle in the Federal High Court.
BDFCG, in a statement issued by its Spokesperson, Prosper Odinga, said “It is apparent that the current Nigerian structure conceived during the colonial era has failed to address the aspirations and rights of indigenous peoples, as the reluctance of certain elites, influenced by foreign interests, to acknowledge these aspirations perpetuates injustice.
The group reiterated its commitment to collaborating with all groups advocating for the political freedom of indigenous peoples within Nigeria, and called on the Nigerian Federal Government to initiate negotiations with indigenous nations within its borders.
The statement reads in full:
BDFCG Alligns With Call To Renegotiate Failed Nigeria
The Biafra De Facto Customary Government (BDFCG) stands united with Prof. Banji Akintoye and allies in advocating for the renegotiation of Nigeria, echoing the sentiments of the Yoruba Self-Determination Movement. We commend Prof. Akintoye for echoing the longstanding stance of Biafrans, as articulated by esteemed elders such as Late HRM Eze Ozobu and the late Dr. Dozie Ikedife, who championed the inherent right to self-determination of the Biafran people. This sentiment is further echoed in the ongoing legal battle in the Federal High Court.
It is apparent that the current Nigerian structure, conceived during the colonial era, has failed to address the aspirations and rights of indigenous peoples. The reluctance of certain elites, influenced by foreign interests, to acknowledge these aspirations perpetuates injustice. BDFCG reiterates its commitment to collaborating with all groups advocating for the political freedom of indigenous peoples within Nigeria.
In alignment with the Yoruba Self-Determination Movement, BDFCG calls upon the Nigerian Federal Government to initiate negotiations with indigenous nations within its borders. We endorse the proposed timeline for dialogue and urge the government to respond positively and promptly.
The economic downturn in Nigeria has plunged millions into poverty and hunger, with infrastructure deteriorating and businesses struggling. Despite being a major petroleum producer, Nigeria relies on imported gasoline due to neglected refineries. Currency devaluation exacerbates inflation, burdening citizens. Neglecting the peaceful process of self-determination risks radicalizing the youth, potentially leading to violence and instability.
Biafrans and other indigenous peoples continue to face threats from Fulani militias, with widespread violence and land grabs. Despite these atrocities, the Nigerian government has failed to address security concerns adequately. The recent declarations of war by Fulani groups highlight the urgency of our demand for self-determination.
Furthermore, BDFCG supports the invitation extended to international observers, including the United Nations, African Union, and the Economic Community of West African States, to ensure transparency and accountability throughout the negotiation process.
We reiterate our commitment to peaceful dialogue and urge stakeholders to engage sincerely to achieve a just resolution.
Prosper Odinga
Spokesperson, BDFCG
Phone: +19173465419
Email: biafradefactogov@gmail.com
Website: www.bdfcg.org