Joe Igbokwe, a prominent leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State, has voiced strong concerns over what he describes as the systemic marginalization of Nigeria’s South-East region in national affairs. In a statement posted on his Facebook page on Saturday, the seasoned politician cautioned that the continued exclusion of the zone could have far-reaching consequences for the country’s unity.
“If Nigeria continues to treat the South-East as if the zone does not exist or does not matter, the consequences will be huge,” Igbokwe declared. His remarks come amid growing discontent over perceived regional imbalances in key appointments under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The APC stalwart’s intervention follows recent criticisms from various quarters, including Senator Ali Ndume of Borno South, who had earlier warned that lopsided federal appointments could breed discontent. While the Presidency has maintained that all appointments are strictly merit-based, Igbokwe argues that the issue reflects deeper historical injustices that remain unaddressed.
“The civil war has ended, but the scars are still there,” Igbokwe noted, invoking the region’s painful history. “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. Neglect of South-East is bad.” His statement taps into longstanding grievances in the region about political and economic exclusion, concerns that have periodically fueled separatist agitations.
The comments from the APC chieftain likely suggest growing unease within the ruling party about regional tensions.
