Igbo Elders say restructuring is about justice, balance, not division

The United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide has stated that calls for the restructuring of Nigeria are aimed at strengthening federalism, national stability, and inclusive development, rather than promoting division.

In a statement issued by its Director General, Justice Alpha Ikpeama, the group emphasized that a restructured federation would foster responsible governance, fiscal discipline, regional productivity, and healthy competition among Nigeria’s federating units.

The council highlighted the Igbo nation’s continued commitment to the unity and progress of Nigeria through enterprise, industry, and peaceful coexistence across the country.

UNIEC urged national leaders, institutions, and citizens to embrace dialogue, constitutional reform, and democratic consensus to build a more just and balanced federation.

The statement read in part: “We, the members and leadership of the United Igbo Elders Council Worldwide, acting in our collective responsibility as custodians of wisdom and advocates of national harmony, issue this proclamation to the Nigerian nation.

Recognizing Nigeria as a union of diverse peoples and cultures, we note that the present constitutional arrangement requires thoughtful reform to strengthen equity, efficiency, and sustainable development.

“We affirm that restructuring represents a legitimate and necessary pathway toward true federalism, national stability, and inclusive development. We call upon the leadership of Nigeria—including the Executive, National Assembly, state governments, traditional institutions, and civil society—to initiate a constructive process for meaningful constitutional restructuring.”

UNIEC stressed that a just and balanced federation is the foundation for enduring national peace, prosperity, and cohesion.

Culled from vanguard