Eze James Nduka Oramadike, the Eze Ndigbo of Yorubaland, has said unity among Igbo residing in the South West and with the host communities is non-negotiable in order for meaningful progress to take place.
He made the appeal during an interview with journalists following the inauguration of Sir Okechukwu Umeh as the President of the association in the state at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan.
Oramadike urged the newly inaugurated executive of the apex-Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Oyo State Chapter, to focus on strengthening bonds within the Igbo community, their host community and with other ethnic groups in the state.
He described the inauguration as a right step in the right direction. He emphasised the importance of establishing harmony, based on a history of leadership tussle that rocked the Igbo community in the state in the state.
He was optimistic that the new leadership the Ohanaeze Ndigbo could pave the way for greater unification among Igbo on one hand and the host communities on the other hand. This, he stated, would position the Igbo to access privileges that should ideally accrue to them.
Oramadike, who said he was installed as Eze Ndigbo of Ibadanland in September 1996 and subsequently Eze Ndigbo of Yorubaland in 2001, reflected on his long commitment to fostering unity among the Igbo.
“Whatever is going on, to God be the glory. I am monitoring the situation. If there is anything they have done wrong, I have to correct them,” he said.
According to him, he is dedicated to his oversight in maintaining cohesion within Igbo in Yorubaland, and with their host communities, and other ethnic tribes in Yorubaland.
Oramadike also urged the new executive to show proper recognition and respect for traditional rulers, noting, “My office should be respected and the offices of other traditional rulers should also be respected.”
He stressed that respect for royal institutions is crucial in preventing any potential discord within the community.
Oramadike also called for mutual respect between the Igbo and their host communities, adding: “I am appealing to the Igbo to respect the tradition and culture of our host,” he stated.
He explained that unity hinges on acknowledging and valuing the diverse tapestry of ethnic relations in Oyo State and throughout Yorubaland.
