For Biafra To Succeed, Godfatherism And Gangsterism Must Be Expelled

 For Biafra To Succeed, God-fatherism And Gang-sterism Must Be Expelled 

The struggle for Biafra is a movement fueled by the collective aspirations of a people long subjected to oppression, marginalization, and systematic erasure. It is a sacred mission that demands unity, transparency, and accountability. Yet, like termites gnawing at the root of a mighty iroko tree, the twin evils of gangsterism and godfatherism have emerged as threats capable of undermining the very foundation of this struggle.  

In recent times, a dangerous precedent has reared its ugly head and it is the tendency for decisions regarding Biafra to be made unilaterally or influenced by a few, often bypassing the collective interests of the Biafran people or undermining its ordained leadership authority. This is not only a betrayal of the struggle but a violation of the guiding principles that the movement stands for.  

Gangsterism, in this context, is the imposition of personal or factional interests on a movement meant to serve millions. It is a trait that encourages intimidation, deceit, and manipulation, all in the name of preserving power or influence. Such behavior erodes trust, weakens solidarity, and creates an environment where loyalty to the cause is replaced by allegiance to individuals or cliques.  

The Biafra struggle cannot afford to be hijacked by gangster-like tactics. This movement is too important, too sacred, to be reduced to a game of power plays and personal vendettas. Biafra represents hope, freedom, and justice for an entire people. Allowing gangsterism to fester is akin to poisoning the well from which we all must drink.  

Equally dangerous is the rise of godfatherism a system where a few self-appointed "kingmakers" wield disproportionate influence over decisions that should represent the collective will of the people. Godfatherism is the antithesis of democracy and while the IPOB movement currently does not wholly run on democratic principles, it however has an impeccable decentralized, institutionalized leadership thus incompromisable. 

However, in the Biafra struggle  godfatherism manifests in the form of secret dealings, unilateral decisions, and the elevation of individuals above the collective. This behavior not only alienates supporters but also provides ammunition to the oppressors who seek to discredit and weaken the movement.  

The strength of the Biafra struggle lies in its collective nature. Decisions affecting millions of Biafrans must be made by a body that genuinely represents the collective interests of the people. This body, whether it is the Directorate of State (DOS) or another structure, must operate with transparency, accountability, and a commitment to the principles of the struggle.  

No individual or group of individuals should have the power to impose decisions on the movement. This is not a personal estate, nor is it a platform for self-enrichment or political maneuvering. The Biafra struggle belongs to the people, and their voices must guide its direction.  

It is time to address the root causes of gangsterism and godfatherism within the struggle. IPOB must implement strict measures to ensure accountability and prevent the concentration of power in the hands of a few. This includes institutionalizing decision-making processes to ensure inclusivity, promoting transparency in all dealings, and encouraging the active participation of all Biafrans in the movement.  

History has shown that movements that allow internal corruption, favoritism, and autocracy to flourish are doomed to fail. The Biafra struggle cannot afford to repeat the mistakes of the past. This is a defining moment—an opportunity to reaffirm the principles that have kept the movement alive despite decades of persecution and sabotage.  

To those who seek to exploit the struggle for personal gain, let it be known that the Biafra struggle and the IPOB movement is bigger than any individual. As the Igbo adage goes, “Eze onye agwanam ga-ama ikpe ọnụ n'ala" —a king who refuses counsel will end up disgraced. Saboteurs, beware: your actions will not go unnoticed, nor will they be forgiven by the people whose dreams you aim to jeopardize.  

The Biafra struggle is a beacon of hope for millions. It is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, a people united can achieve the impossible. To preserve this spirit, we must rid the movement of gangsterism and godfatherism. And protect the institutionalized authority of the IPOB movement, defend its founding and guiding principles without prejudice or sentiments. 

Let us remember that the fight for Biafra is not just about territory or politics—it is about the restoration of our cultural value systems which simplifies that no man can take the people for ride and the Biafra people followership is not inspired by asslicking rather respect and regard for substantial sacrifice towards the protection of the people's interests. The love and followership of Ndigbo towards any individual stems from the above mentioned. 

The IPOB Leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu established IPOB movement and has worked tirelessly and paid the ultimate price to cement its idealogy but most importantly the institution. Knowing fully well that the survival of the struggle depends on these two things: the idealogy and the institution that would strengthen, nourish and protect it. Not individuals whom are expendable. 

On this premises, must we anchor that the restoration of this highly sorted "Biafra Republic" – emphasis on this -  depends on the ability of the people not necessarily those in leadership but the ordinary masses and lovers of freedom to defend the established institutions both from external attacks and internal undermination. 

Biafra is a sacred mission, and it demands nothing less than our utmost integrity, unity, and dedication. Together, we shall overcome.  

Family Writers Press International