“Gowon’s 54-Year-Old Promise to Igbos Was Never Kept, But Tinubu Says It Must Be” — Benjamin Kalu

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to addressing long-standing issues affecting the Igbo people, reaffirming that Tinubu truly deserves the title “Enyi Ndigbo”, meaning “Friend of the Igbos.”

During an interview with TVC, Kalu recalled that after the Nigerian Civil War, former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon promised reconciliation, rehabilitation, and reconstruction for the Igbos. However, he noted that these promises were never fully honored.

According to Kalu, Tinubu is now taking concrete steps to fulfill those long-overdue commitments, proving his dedication to the southeast in a way previous administrations have failed to do.

“He (Tinubu) was given the title ‘Enyi Ndigbo’—the Friend of the Igbos—and he has proven himself worthy of it. Over the years, successive governments have failed to address the concerns of southeasterners and the unfulfilled promises made 54 years ago by Gowon’s administration. But President Tinubu, as a true friend of the Igbos, has committed to ensuring these promises are kept,” Kalu stated.

The announcement has sparked discussions on the federal government’s renewed focus on the southeast, with many now watching to see how these commitments will be turned into tangible actions.

📺 Watch the full interview here: