The Supreme Council of Ikwerre Government-Recognized Traditional leaders in Rivers State has made a bold declaration that is bound to stir conversations in the Niger Delta region.
In a formal statement, the council disassociated itself from the Ohanaeze Ndigbo, asserting that the Ikwerre people have an independent ethnic identity distinct from the Igbo ethnic group, Hitvibz reports.
This statement, signed by His Majesty King Leslie Eke, Eze Oha Evo III of Evo Kingdom, and His Royal Highness Ben Ugo, Nye-Weala Omerelu, urged the Rivers State Government and citizens to remain alert to what it described as attempts by “Igbo expansionists” to undermine the Ikwerre’s unique cultural heritage.
Ikwerre traditional leaders assert Ccultural independence
In their declaration, the Ikwerre traditional leaders reiterated the ethnic group’s ancestral ties to the ancient Benin Kingdom.
According to the council, their forebears, Akalaka, provide a historical foundation that connects the Ikwerre people to a proud and distinct heritage.
The council also emphasised the shared lineage of the Iwhuruohna people with other Rivers State ethnic groups, including the Ekpeye and Ogba communities.
This assertion further sealed their claim that the Ikwerre identity is deeply rooted in Rivers State and the Niger Delta, rather than being tied to the Igbo ethnic group.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo disassociation sparks ethnic identity debate
The council warned that efforts to misrepresent the Ikwerre ethnic group as part of the Igbo identity are a threat to their cultural autonomy.
They called on the Rivers State Government and the public to protect the Ikwerre heritage against such “tricks and pranks” from external influences.
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