A coalition of United States–based Igbo advocacy organisations has ignited fresh debate over leadership in the South-East, openly challenging traditional rulers to abandon what they describe as a culture of silence and rise boldly in defence of their people.
In a joint statement released Friday, the American Veterans of Igbo Descent (AVID), Ambassadors for Self-Determination, and the Rising Sun Foundation said the future of AlaIgbo hinges on courage, not caution. The groups commended Eze Lawrence Agubuzu for what they termed a forthright and principled message recently directed to President Bola Tinubu, describing the monarch’s stance as a rare display of moral clarity among royal fathers in the region.
According to the organisations, Agubuzu — alongside Eze Chukwuemeka Eri — has distinguished himself by publicly acknowledging what they called the deep frustration and anguish in the South-East, particularly over the continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu.
But beyond commendation, the statement struck a confrontational tone. The groups argued that many traditional rulers have failed to speak with sufficient boldness at a time when the region faces political and security challenges. They warned that titles and crowns lose meaning if they are not backed by decisive action.
“The time for guarded statements and diplomatic silence is over,” the statement read. “AlaIgbo cannot be preserved by leaders who choose comfort over courage.”
In a pointed remark, the coalition referenced prominent monarchs — including the Obi of Onitsha and Eze Cletus Ilomuanya — urging them and others to take clearer public positions on issues affecting the South-East. The diaspora groups insisted that traditional institutions must serve as both cultural custodians and moral voices in turbulent times.
Observers say the development reflects mounting pressure from segments of the Igbo diaspora who feel increasingly compelled to influence conversations around regional justice and representation. By directly addressing monarchs, the groups appear to be signalling a shift from quiet advocacy to open accountability.
While traditional rulers in the South-East have historically played advisory and stabilising roles, the coalition argues that the present moment demands more visible leadership. They maintained that fear of political backlash should not outweigh the responsibility to defend community interests.
As debates over equity, justice, and regional autonomy continue to shape national discourse, the diaspora coalition’s message is unmistakable: silence, they say, is no longer neutral. For them, the question facing Igbo monarchs is not whether to speak — but whether they are prepared to lead.
Diaspora Groups Challenge Igbo Monarchs: ‘History Will Judge Your Silence’
