>
Akinwande Soji-Ojo
Bianca Ojukwu, the widow of late Igbo leader, Emeka Ojukwu, has said that people from the South East zone could achieve their political aspirations in Nigeria including producing the president of the country if they remain united.
She stated this in her remarks as special guest at the 2022 Igbo cultural carnival in Minnesota, United States.
Speaking at the carnival, tagged, ‘Igbofest 2022’, Bianca noted that the Igbos that gathered at the event were keen about happenings at home.
In a statement released by her media office on Wednesday, Bianca harped on the need for Igbos to continue to build pragmatic partnerships and strategic engagements.
“We must unite to achieve our common goal. I know you are concerned about what is happening at home. We, as an ethnic group, have been denied the presidency of Nigeria for so long. However, we cannot make progress by becoming internally divided, with some of our major stakeholders working against our collective interests. But we must not box ourselves into a corner; we must continue to build pragmatic partnerships and anchor our aspirations on strategic engagements, alliances and negotiations, which, while tapping into our collective goodwill and progressive agenda, will advance our political interests,” she said.
The former Ambassador to Spain paid tribute to the giant strides Igbos living in Minnesota have recorded outside the shores of the country and enjoined them to continue to promote the noble tradition and culture that have helped shape their world view and always strive to transmit same to their offspring.
She declared that the Igbo cultural heritage was what shaped their sense of identity as people, in addition to promoting social cohesion, which she said created a sense of belonging and collective pride in the norms and tradition their ancestors bequeathed on them.
It was gathered that the governor of Minnesota, Tim Walz, had by official proclamation declared August 13, as ‘Igbo Day’ in the state.
Walz was reported to have recognised the efforts of the organisers, Umunne Cultural Association (UCA), in uniting and creating awareness among Minnesotans about Igbo culture, art, music, language and way of life.
Speaking, UCA President, Dr. Jane Nwaudo, said the association had made significant changes in its philosophical principles by encouraging collaborative efforts with other entities in the community.
Nwaudo said as a group focused on cultural heritage, UCA has continued to strengthen the link with a new generation of youths of Igbo descent, born and raised in the United States, through “scholarships to high school graduates, promoting cultural activities and pageants to instill greater self-esteem and pride in their identity.”
The colorful event showcased the best of Igbo culture including masquerades, cultural dances and performances, Igbo sports activities, language debates, culinary contests, pageants and replication of Igbo customary rites for a new generation of Igbo youths, born and bred in America.
The event was attended by the state’s senator, mayor, city officials and other dignitaries.