- Cultural Identity: The East of Nigeria boasts a unique cultural identity shaped by its geography, enterprising population, and republican values ¹.
- Igbo Culture: The Igbo people, along with other Eastern Nigerian ethnic groups, historically governed themselves through guilds and councils, rejecting monarchical rule.
- Colonial Legacy: British colonialism imposed pseudo-monarchs, creating a culture of titles and kingdoms that undermine traditional Igbo values.
- Need for Revolution: The East must reclaim its cultural heritage, dismantling the current local government system and returning to the Eastern Nigerian Local Government Act of 1954/6.
- Restoring Republican Values: Embracing individual freedom, liberty, and equality, the East can restore itself as a political and economic force.
The East of Nigeria is ripe for a cultural revolution, one that rejects the imposed monarchical systems and reclaims its republican heritage. For centuries, the Igbo people and other Eastern Nigerian ethnic groups have valued individual freedom, liberty, and equality, governing themselves through guilds and councils ². However, British colonialism disrupted this tradition, imposing pseudo-monarchs and creating a culture of colorful titles and kingdoms.
It’s time for the East to dismantle the current local government system, which perpetuates this colonial legacy, and return to the Eastern Nigerian Local Government Act of 1954/6. This bold move would restore the region’s political and economic prowess, rekindling its ancient values based on the idea of the Republic.
As the Igbo proverb goes, “Mazi” means “first among equals,” reflecting the egalitarian spirit that once defined the East. It’s crucial to revive this shared cultural vision, embracing mental freedom and rejecting the imposed monarchical structures.
The Eze Nri, once a revered high priest, has been elevated to imperial majesty, undermining the spiritual and theological significance of this office. It’s essential to recognize the heresy in this elevation and reclaim the Eze Nri’s original role as guardian of Igbo moral and spiritual authority.
By reclaiming their cultural heritage, the people of the East can forge a new path, one that honors their republican values and promotes individual freedom, liberty, and equality. This revolution would not only redeem the people but also restore the East as a vibrant political and economic force in Nigeria.
