Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo has called for an open dialogue on the future of the Igbo people, stressing that issues surrounding separatist agitations must be discussed sincerely among all stakeholders.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Soludo said he does not support calls for secession or the idea of an independent Igbo nation.
“For me, I believe very strongly that the agitation thing and the position of a separatist view of Igbo land—for me, as a full-blooded Igbo man, I don’t believe that,” he said.
The governor noted that every voice in Igbo land, including those supporting separatist movements, deserves to be heard in an honest conversation about what best serves the collective interest of the region.
“I want us to have a conversation. I have said why I need Nnamdi Kanu to come and sit with everybody else because nobody has better rights than the other,” Soludo said. “We are all Igbos and are all entitled to our views, and those of them who want us out of Nigeria, we will all sit in a room and debate it: are we served better being out of Nigeria or within Nigeria? I am of the view that the Igbo man needs Nigeria and Nigeria needs the Igbo man.”
He added that the Igbo people have always been known for their industriousness, tolerance, and mobility, warning that violence and intolerance would only hinder progress.
“We are everybody’s village, and itinerant people cannot afford to be intolerant. That’s my view for those who are going on a failed protest. I am the governor of a state, and mine is to govern,” he stated.
Soludo maintained that while social activists have their roles to play, his duty as governor is to focus on governance. He also expressed confidence that IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu would eventually regain his freedom, saying it would be an opportunity for the Igbo people to come together and define a shared vision.
“When Nnamdi Kanu comes out—and we believe he ultimately will—we will all sit down at a round table and interrogate our alternative visions for Igbo land,” Soludo said.
He explained that his vision is to build “a liveable and prosperous homeland” for the Igbo, ensuring that wherever they travel, they have a comfortable and thriving home to return to.
Meanwhile, reactions continue to trail the planned nationwide #FreeNnamdiKanu protest scheduled for Monday, demanding Kanu’s release. While many pro-Biafran supporters describe it as a legitimate struggle for Igbo self-determination, activist Omoyele Sowore has vowed to defy police warnings and challenge the court order restricting the protest.
What You Should Know
Governor Charles Soludo is advocating dialogue rather than division on the Igbo question. He believes unity, progress, and economic empowerment should guide the region’s agenda, not secession.
Soludo also envisions a “liveable and prosperous homeland” for the Igbo, rooted in collaboration, peace, and development.
