The assertion made by Ohaneze Ndigbo and its President, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, regarding the inclusion of Ikwerre within the Igbo ethnic group has sparked a strong reaction from the Ikwerre socio-cultural organization, the Iwhnurohna Progressive Organisation (IPO).
Dr. Okahchukwu Dibia, leading the members of IPO, expressed their discontent during a meeting in Port Harcourt. Dibia stated that attributing Ikwerre to the Igbo ethnic group was offensive, insulting, and unfounded.
According to IPO, Ikwerre is a distinct ethnic group recognized by both the Nigerian government and the United Nations. They emphasized that the Ikwerre language is officially recognized, and Ikwerre people are specifically identified within Nigeria’s ethnic diversity.
In response to the claims made by Chief Iwuanyanwu, IPO clarified that the similarities in language, names, dances, songs, and dressing should not be used as determinants of ethnic identity. They argued that the core innate character and behavior of a people are more significant factors in defining their ethnicity.
Dibia referred to the works of scholars like Prof. Otonti Nduka and used thematic headings such as appearances, innate qualities, and history to explain the distinctiveness of the Ikwerre people from the Igbo, despite some similarities in language and culture.
He further explained that the history of the Ikwerre people is well-documented, and they are not a subset of the Igbo ethnic group. While acknowledging the historical presence of some Aro communities in Ikwerreland, IPO emphasized that this does not justify the claim that Ikwerre is Igbo.
Dibia also highlighted the need for good neighborliness, urging Ohaneze Ndigbo and other ethnic groups to respect the distinctiveness of the Ikwerre people instead of making attempts to assimilate them into the Igbo ethnic group.
He mentioned that late Chief Eguma, who had aligned with Ohaneze Ndigbo, was fined by the Ogbakor Ikwerre Organisation Worldwide, and subsequently, the fine was paid as restitution.
IPO urged Ohaneze Ndigbo to recognize Ikwerre as a distinct ethnic group and to refrain from making statements that could incite division and promote disaffection between the Ikwerre and Igbo communities. They emphasized the importance of maintaining good neighborly relations for peaceful coexistence among all ethnic groups in Nigeria.
