In a recent interview marking his 90th birthday, former military leader Yakubu Gowon attributed the civil unrest and subsequent secessionist sentiments in the Southeast to the actions of the Igbo people. In response, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has issued a strong rebuttal, accusing Gowon of orchestrating the massacre of Igbos during the Nigerian Civil War.
Gowon’s comments suggested that the current state of affairs in the Southeast is a direct consequence of an alleged attempt by Igbos to secede from Nigeria. However, IPOB leaders have condemned these statements as historically inaccurate and deeply insensitive to the suffering endured by the Igbo community during the 1966 pogroms and the subsequent war.
IPOB has emphasized that Gowon’s military regime was responsible for widespread atrocities against the Igbo population. Historical records indicate that during his leadership, tens of thousands of Igbos were killed in systematic attacks across Northern Nigeria. Estimates suggest that between 10,000 and 30,000 Igbos lost their lives during these violent episodes, which were characterized by brutal massacres and ethnic cleansingIn their statement, IPOB asserted.
“Gowon’s claims are not only misleading but also an affront to the memory of those who perished under his watch. His regime was marked by a genocidal campaign against our people, which ultimately led to the declaration of Biafra and a war that claimed millions of lives.”
The context surrounding these events is crucial. The anti-Igbo pogroms began following a coup in January 1966, which was perceived by many Northerners as an Igbo conspiracy to dominate Nigeria. This perception fueled retaliatory violence against Igbos living in Northern Nigeria, leading to mass killings and displacements
Furthermore, IPOB pointed out that Gowon’s assurances of safety for Easterners were rendered meaningless amidst the chaos and violence perpetrated by his forces. The organization reiterated that it seeks justice for past atrocities rather than perpetuating division.
IPOB is calling for a comprehensive investigation into the historical injustices faced by the Igbo people during and after the civil war. They demand accountability from those who orchestrated violence against innocent civilians and urge all Nigerians to acknowledge this dark chapter in their history.