Archbishop Opoko Slams Educational Bias Against Igbo Youth, Calls for Justice in Nnamdi Kanu’s Detention
National Inequality Under Fire: Archbishop Opoko Speaks Out
By Uruakpa Onyemaechi Charles | May 23, 2025
In a bold and passionate statement that’s sparking widespread discussion, Archbishop Chibuzor Raphael Opoko, a leading voice in the Methodist Church Nigeria, has condemned what he describes as systemic injustice and educational discrimination against the Igbo people. He also demanded the immediate release of IPOB leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, calling his prolonged detention a painful reflection of Nigeria’s structural inequalities.
Speaking during a press briefing, Archbishop Opoko emphasized:
“Nnamdi Kanu’s agitation is not rebellion—it is a cry for justice and equal rights. If Nigeria cannot guarantee fairness to the Igbo people, then let a peaceful referendum take place. That is not a crime—it’s democracy in action.”
Educational Discrimination: A Symptom of Deeper Bias
The Archbishop also took aim at Nigeria’s flawed educational admission policies, particularly those that penalize high-performing students from the South-East in favor of less qualified applicants from other regions.
“Why should someone from the Southeast score 230 in JAMB and still be denied admission, while someone else scores below 100 and gets in—only to later head ministries and parastatals?” he asked.
Such disparity, he argued, is not just unfair but fuels frustration, disillusionment, and resentment among Igbo youth.
Youth Anger and National Fragility
Archbishop Opoko warned that ignoring the cries of marginalized communities is a recipe for instability. He urged Nigerian leaders to pay attention to the growing frustration and resilience of Igbo youth, many of whom feel like strangers in their own country.
“These youths are watching. They are counting the injustices. When people are pushed to the wall, they begin to push back. Nigeria must tread carefully,” he cautioned.
A Call for Justice, Equity, and Federalism
The Archbishop's message was clear: National unity cannot exist without justice and fairness. He urged the federal government to:
- Release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu
- End discriminatory education policies
- Embrace true federalism and inclusive governance
- Foster equal opportunity for every ethnic group in Nigeria
“When you oppress people, they don’t just suffer—they become resilient. And resilience, when provoked long enough, becomes resistance,” he noted.
Conclusion: Restructuring, Not Repression
As Nigeria faces calls for restructuring and devolution of power, Archbishop Opoko’s powerful intervention adds a moral voice to the growing demand for equity and justice in governance. His remarks challenge Nigeria’s leadership to not just listen—but to act.
Read More Thought-Provoking Updates on MethodistMedia Owerri
Stay informed. Stay engaged. Demand justice.
Share this post with #JusticeForIgbo #OpokoSpeaks #NnamdiKanu #EqualEducation #NigeriaUnity
Follow us: https://mcnowerri.blogspot.com
Comments
Post a Comment