Former Senator Victor Umeh has called for unity, restraint, and historical consciousness among the Igbo people, warning against internal condemnation and public disparagement amid ongoing struggles for justice and inclusion. Umeh made the remarks in a recent video shared on Symfoni TV during the 80th birthday celebration of respected elder statesman, Chief Dan Ulasi.
The event, which attracted political leaders, traditional rulers, elders, family members, and long-time associates, served as both a tribute to Ulasi’s legacy and a platform for reflection on the broader Igbo experience within Nigeria’s political landscape. Speakers at the gathering highlighted Ulasi’s decades-long commitment to fairness, national dialogue, and principled leadership.
Speaking at the celebration, Umeh cautioned against divisions within the Igbo community, particularly in relation to controversial struggles and figures. He stressed that disagreements over approach or ideology should not degenerate into personal attacks or collective self-denigration.
“No matter how the struggle turns, it is not right for any Igbo man to speak ill of that boy,” Umeh said, drawing applause from attendees.
Although Umeh did not initially mention names, he later clarified that his comments were a reference to Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who has been convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment. According to the former senator, while individuals may hold differing opinions about methods, tactics, or leadership styles, such differences should not erase shared history or the motivations behind the struggle.
Umeh emphasized that the agitation for justice, equity, and recognition in the Southeast predates any single individual and must be viewed within a broader historical context. He warned that public condemnation of fellow Igbo figures, especially by their own people, weakens collective resolve and diminishes the moral weight of longstanding grievances.
He further noted that internal hostility only serves to undermine unity and provides ammunition to external critics, adding that progress is unlikely when a people turn against themselves in moments of crisis.
Beyond the political message, Umeh used the occasion to pay tribute to Chief Dan Ulasi, whom he described as a principled elder statesman and a consistent voice of conscience in Nigeria’s political affairs. He praised Ulasi for his courage, recalling moments in his political career when he spoke truth to power, even at personal or political cost.
According to Umeh, Ulasi’s legacy lies not only in his positions held but in his unwavering commitment to justice, fairness, and integrity. He described the celebrant as a moral compass for younger politicians and a symbol of consistency in an often unpredictable political environment.
If you love political news or like to get more news happening around the globe, use the button below to get more verified news happening around Nigeria and the world today.
Leave a Reply