THE IMPORTANCE OF IGBO TOWN UNIONS AND CHIEF EMEKA DIWE'S DEDICATION
THE IMPORTANCE OF IGBO TOWN UNIONS AND CHIEF EMEKA DIWE'S DEDICATION
Igbo Town Unions have long been recognized as pivotal players in the development of rural communities across Igboland. Today, they stand as catalysts for positive change in the socio-political organization of the Igbo people, serving as an indispensable instrument in the self-help approach to community development.
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These Town Unions are indigenous, self-governed associations which historically evolved in each Igbo community to address their developmental needs. Most important of all, they operate without government interference, providing a platform for grassroots-driven development initiatives.
After the devastation of the Nigeria-Biafra civil war, Igboland was left in ruins. Farmlands and aquatic resources were ravaged by pollution. Schools, factories, workshops, markets, and essential means of livelihood were destroyed. Access to safe drinking water was nearly nonexistent. As a people who had lost the war, the Igbos were subjected to punitive measures, including the infamous policy of granting each Igbo bank account holder only twenty pounds (£20), regardless of their actual savings. This anti-Igbo policy was a calculated effort by the victorious Nigerian side to further subjugate the Igbo and remind them of their defeat, despite the so-called declaration of "no victor, no vanquished." The only visible federal presence in Igboland during this period was a proliferation of police stations.
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In the face of these challenges, Igbo Town Unions emerged as the primary agents of rebuilding and rejuvenating Igboland. In line with the United Nations' definition of community development as "a process where community members come together to take collective action and generate solutions to common problems," these unions spearheaded efforts to reconstruct their communities. They built schools, constructed roads, provided potable water, established markets, and offered scholarships to bright students to study abroad. The Igbo apprenticeship system, known as "igba boy," which has produced countless millionaires and billionaires worldwide, also owes its roots to the initiatives of Town Unions. The establishment of "Igbo National High School Aba" and the construction of "Imo State Airport" are notable examples of their efforts. Additionally, these unions are responsible for ensuring security and maintaining law and order in their respective communities.
Today, Igbo Town Unions have extended their influence globally, existing wherever Igbos are found under the umbrella of the Association of Igbo Town Unions (ASITU). The effectiveness and integrity of the leadership at the helm of these unions significantly impact their overall performance. Since assuming office as the President General of ASITU, Chief Emeka Diwe has elevated the union to unprecedented heights. Under his leadership, Igbo Town Unions in Southwest Nigeria (ASWITU) and those in the northern regions have successfully affiliated with the parent body in Igboland, headquartered in Enugu.
Chief Emeka Diwe has demonstrated unwavering commitment to the Igbo cause, particularly through his vocal advocacy for the release of the IPOB leader, Maazi Nnamdi Kanu. From the oppressive regime of Muhammadu Buhari to the current administration of President Bola Tinubu, Diwe has consistently emphasized the importance of Kanu's release, arguing that it would restore peace and stimulate economic activities in the Southeast. Furthermore, ASITU, under Diwe's leadership, boldly supported the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, after Nigerians, especially the youth, overwhelmingly endorsed him. In a bold statement, ASITU pledged to take full responsibility should Peter Obi fail Nigerians. Diwe’s declaration, "Hold ASITU responsible if Peter Obi fails Nigerians," epitomized the Igbo Town Union spirit of solidarity, "Onye aghala nwanneya," and commitment to collective success, "Onụrụ ube nwanne agbalaba ọsọ."
ASITU operates independently, free from the influence of Southeast governors or politicians, thanks to Chief Emeka Diwe's steadfast refusal to compromise the integrity and autonomy of the town unions. Unlike many other organizations, ASITU remains crisis-free, in line with the biblical adage which says, "When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice."
In light of the numerous challenges currently facing the Igbo people, it is imperative for all Igbo sons and daughters, both at home and in the diaspora, to rally behind ASITU in its mission to unify and promote Igbo interests.
May the Creator bless Ala Igbo! Iseeeee!
Written by Prince Erondu Uche. August 29, 2024.
princeeronduuche@gmail.com
08136706653
Published by TBE Magazine.
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