Dear Fellow Countrymen,
I am writing to you as an Igbo, a member of a vibrant community known for its entrepreneurial spirit and resilience. If you journey through the bustling cities of Onitsha, Aba, Alaba, or Kano, you’ll witness the pride of wealthy individuals not in their personal millions but in how many they’ve empowered. These are individuals engaging in healthy competition, forging millionaires out of common ventures, yet not at the expense of others. It’s a mastery over greed unparalleled globally—a facet of Igbo heritage that fills me with immense pride.
The indomitable spirit of my ethnicity resonates within me, a legacy I hold dear.
Central to every Igbo person is their Chi, a personal spiritual entity determining success, not by societal barriers or parental wealth but by sheer determination. This belief—”Onye kwe, Chi ya ekwe”—underscores our ethos and upbringing.
Our ethos champions communal success. We share our wealth willingly, eager to impart our knowledge even to our hosts’ children if they embrace our ways beyond suspicion. We value intelligence and reliability above ethnic distinctions, welcoming anyone who embodies these traits.
Not bound by a fascination for royalty, our historical governance was merit-based. Leaders were chosen for their abilities, not lineage. We thrived on communal efforts—building houses for each other, supporting those in need, and collectively investing in education, firmly believing that every child belonged to the community.
Our desire is not dominion but prosperity. We strive to create wealth and share it without prejudice. We relish the challenge of transforming virgin lands into thriving communities, enriching places others may overlook.
I understand the pride you hold for your heritage. I celebrate it too—the richness of your culture, the warrior spirit of your ancestors, their industriousness. I’m eager to share in these celebrations with you.
It’s my belief that if other ethnic groups embraced Igbo principles, they could lead indefinitely, while Igbo people, uninterested in political power, would happily contribute to society’s progress.
Respect in our culture is earned, not inherited. Injustice is abhorred, yet our approach differs from the hierarchical systems. We detest injustice passionately and uphold the value of settling disagreements without force.
Regarding our governors, their imposition through forceful means illustrates a deviation from our will. A fair electoral system would alter this narrative drastically.
Our culture respects diverse voices—from the inebriated to the village sage. We understand that even madness occasionally carries wisdom benefiting the community.
Individuals like Peter Obi epitomize our ethos—humble, hardworking, and dedicated to justice and public welfare. They embody the ideals we’ve nurtured over millennia.
As an Igbo, I’m open to learning and adopting value from others, hoping for reciprocal openness. Yet, let me assure you, our intent is not dominance but collective growth.
I acknowledge the difficulty in understanding our approach. However, I am committed to learning and embracing diverse cultures while abiding by the laws of the land.
Lastly, I dismiss the notion of an expansionist quest. My spirit is not geared towards conquest but towards mutual prosperity. Crushing my spirit will prove futile, for it is a gift I offer to Nigeria and every place I call home.
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