by Kingsley Ikechukwu Uwaegbute, Stanley Ndubuisi Nweze, and Onyekachi Gift Chukwuma
Abstract
The Biafran separatist calls of Nnamdi Kanu and IPOB have spread like bush fire over the years among Igbo people. Presently, it is one of the most discussed topics among Igbo people and Nigerians. The narrative of both Kanu and IPOB operate is that Igbo people are marginalized in Nigeria and therefore need freedom. This article examines how some Christian leaders of Igbo extraction now fit into the picture as regards Biafra separatist cause. Utilizing oral interviews and the theory of marginalization, the article illustrates how some Igbo Christian leaders are now supporting the Biafran separatist cause. Their strategy appeals to the Christian faith for justification for Biafran separatism. Hence, ‘spiritual legitimization’ of the Biafran cause by some Igbo Christian leaders helps make Biafran separatism more appealing to many Igbo youth. Christianity now plays a role in the Biafran separatist struggle, although usually neglected in the discourse on Biafra.
Kingsley Ikechukwu Uwaegbute (Ph.D) teaches New Testament Studies at the Department of Religion and Cultural Studies, University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
Stanley Ndubuisi Nweze (Ph.D), corresponding author, is a lecturer in the Department of Religion and Cultural Studies, University of Nigeria, Nsukka where he teaches Old Testament Studies.
Onyekachi Chukwuma Gift (Ph.D) teaches Old Testament Studies at the Department of Religion andCultural Studies, University of Nigeria, Nsukka.