Jonathan Reveals Why Niger Deltans Will Not Join Biafran Nation

Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan explains the reasons behind the Niger Delta region’s decision to remain outside the Biafran nation, addressing key political and regional concerns.

Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan has stated that the Niger Delta region will not support the Biafran secessionist movement due to worries about possible subjugation.

Jonathan made this statement while giving a lecture on Sunday in Texas, USA.

The former president stated that the people of the Niger Delta would rather stay as an essential part of Nigeria than join Biafra in dividing the country.

He explained that multiple factors shaped this position, such as concerns related to leadership, the proposed capital of the nation, language disparities, and fears of annexation.

Jonathan contended that if the Niger Delta aligned with Biafra, it might be equivalent to exchanging one type of subjugation for another. He pointed out that while the Igbos’ pursuit of independence is based on seeking liberation from perceived Hausa-Yoruba dominance, joining forces with Biafra could lead to similar power dynamics impacting the people of the Niger Delta.

He stressed that the Niger Delta’s distinct identity, cultural diversity, and interests are better aligned within a united Nigeria than they would be in a potentially unequal alliance with the Biafran movement.

Jonathan points out that this argument is relevant to the average Niger Deltan as well. If Biafra were to become a reality, the Igbo would undoubtedly be the dominant ethnic group. The Ijaws might also have some influence due to their population size. But what about other groups like the Ogonis, Urhobo-Isokos, Itsekiris, Efiks, and others?

How will they be integrated at the national level? Unfortunately, it’s likely that a similar situation to Nigeria’s may arise, leading to growing resentments. What will truly happen to minorities in this scenario?

“Would they be better off in Biafra or on their own? In Nigeria, major groups like the Hausa, Yoruba, and Igbo effectively balance each other’s excesses. In a new nation for the Igbos, who would serve as a counterbalance to them?”

Where will the capital be established? If we adhere to the idea of a central location, Biafra’s capital would not be Enugu but rather in the Umuahia-Ikot Ekpene area. Would the Igbo people agree to have their capital situated outside an Igbo region?

Why and how were they included in the proposed map? Small details like this can lead to distrust. I understand that many non-Igbo regions have rejected the map, affirming their commitment to Nigeria—an example being the declaration by the Delta State government.

This appears to be a case of aggressive annexation. The so-called e-Biafrans have done little to ease the concerns of people in the regions being taken over. I’ve come across remarks like, “if you don’t like it, go and stay in Sokoto,” or “all land in the South is Biafra territory.” Isn’t it ironic that those seeking freedom are looking to annex others?

Which languages will be designated as the official ones for the new nation? I’ve noticed several posts by e-Biafrans suggesting that Igbo should be the official language of this emerging republic. What about other languages like Urhobo, Isoko, Okpe, Efik, Ibibio, Oron, Ogoni, Eleme Okrika Kalabari Bini Esan and many others—what would their status become?

“Will they disappear due to the Igbo influence? Definitely not! If English becomes the official language, the dominance of the Igbo majority will come into play. Individuals with names like Chukwuemeka or Oliseh, Amarachi or Nneka, etc., are more likely to receive appointments and recognition. This is an undeniable aspect of our society; we tend to be very ethnocentric in Africa.”

Continuing his speech, the former President questioned what the Igbo nation has done for the Niger Deltans to earn their trust. He observed that every day he sees Igbo youths creating enemies where none previously existed.

Jonathan remarked, “They consistently exploit the internet to stir up controversy, throw insults at those who disagree with them, and spread baseless claims.”

There is a prevalent sense of mistrust towards the Igbos among some Niger Deltans, especially within Urhobo-Isoko and Bini communities. What measures have the Igbos taken to address this issue? Have any Igbo leaders or groups made efforts to reach out in friendship to the Niger Deltan people?

Mistrust cannot simply be eliminated. Many people in the Niger Delta may prefer aligning with Hausas despite significant challenges rather than unite under Igbos, whom they view critically due to historical tensions and grievances attributed to past actions by the Igbo community.

Who will assume leadership of the new nation? Nnamdi Kanu, regarded as their hero for his relentless fight for Biafra, is presently incarcerated. If Biafra were to be established today, who would serve as the interim leader and what plans are in place to elect future leaders?

If we assert that new and younger leaders will emerge, we still face the challenge of addressing those who fought for Biafra.

“Many pro-Biafrans are unlikely to accept someone who was on the sidelines of their struggle coming in and easily taking power from Biafra’s ‘heroes.’ If this holds true, it could hinder the establishment of a proper democracy in Biafra.”