IWA Seeks National Healing as Ndigbo Mark May 30
Enugu — The Igbo Women Assembly (IWA) has called for healing, justice and national reconciliation as Ndigbo worldwide observe May 30 Biafra Remembrance Day. In addition, the group said the wounds of the civil war remain largely unhealed nearly six decades later.
The group stressed that the push for reconciliation remains incomplete. It also argued that authorities should not criminalise remembrance for war victims.
Civil War Memories Still Painful, Says IWA Leader
IWA National President, Lolo Nneka Chimezie, made the appeal in a message marking the annual commemoration. She said memories of the civil war and earlier killings continue to affect many Igbo families.
“We cannot shy away from our past because that past continues to haunt us,” she said. Furthermore, she added, “From 1966 to date, we still bleed. When people suffer injustice, the wounds remain long after.”
Remembrance Day Dedicated to War Victims
Chimezie described May 30 as a solemn day set aside to honour Biafran heroes and civilians who lost their lives during the war. In addition, she said the impact of the conflict still runs through families across Igboland.
“Our children chose this day to remember our fathers, mothers, sisters and brothers who died. We owe them that honour,” she said.
She also noted that no family in the region escaped the effects of the war. Consequently, she said the pain remains part of the collective identity of Ndigbo.
“No family in Igboland was untouched by the war. The pain remains part of our collective memory,” she added.
Call for Peaceful Observance and Prayer
The IWA president urged Ndigbo worldwide to observe the day through prayers, candlelight vigils and peaceful remembrance activities. Likewise, she called on the Federal Government to support national healing efforts.
She said Nigeria must reflect deeply on its past and assess whether genuine reconciliation has taken place. Moreover, she insisted that healing begins when pain is acknowledged.
“It is time for Nigeria to reflect on the war and ask whether the nation has truly healed,” she said.
Appeal for Dialogue With South-East Youths
Chimezie also urged government authorities to engage youths in the South-East through dialogue. In addition, she warned that confrontation would worsen existing tensions.
“Our youths have concerns and aspirations. The best way forward is meaningful engagement, not suppression,” she said.
Remembrance Should Promote Unity, Says IWA
She argued that remembrance does not threaten national unity. Instead, she said it should strengthen justice, understanding and peace.
“There can be no genuine unity without justice, understanding and healing,” she stated.
Call on Leaders to Bridge Divides
Finally, she urged South-East governors and political leaders to bridge communication gaps between youths and the Federal Government. She also called on Nigerians to use the occasion to pray for lasting peace and reconciliation across the country.
