An Identity in Quests for Self-Determination: The Case of Indigenous People of Biafra Separatist Movement in Nigeria

Abstract

Since the lull of nationalist struggles and after many merged ethnic-nationalities attained statehood, separatist movements with distinctive identities have increased their agitations for self-determination. The deficit or decline of national cohesion in Nigeria and other independent states has been ascribed to the proliferation and radicalization of separatist movements. Therefore, to provide effective political measures, it has become necessary to quell separatist movement agitations and foster substantial national cohesion. This article examines the actions of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) separatist movement in South East Nigeria and altruistic political solutions to its quest for self-determination. It explores the IPOB’s grievances, strategies, and approaches and the factors sustaining its struggles and uses both primary and secondary sources of data. The study shows that after years of the Nigerian–Biafran war, the Igbo of the South East are still gripped by political alienation, which has led to a renewed call for Biafran statehood. It thus recommends that, rather than using a securitization and militaristic approach to diminish the group’s claims for self-determination, the Nigerian government should initiate a dialogue and ensure ideal inclusive governance to achieve equitable representation of the South East at the national level.