Table of Contents
- Criticism of Senator Ned Nwoko's Remarks
- Distinct Identity of Ndokwa-Ukwuani Communities
- Response from Ndokwa Professional Network
- Cultural Overlaps and Ancestry
- Call for Sensitivity in Ethnic Classifications
The Ndokwa Professional Network (NPN), a socio-cultural organization in Delta State, has condemned statements made by Senator Ned Nwoko, who claimed that the Ndokwa-Ukwuani people are part of the Igbo ethnic group.
The organization asserted that the Ndokwa-Ukwuani communities have a unique identity and should not be classified as part of Igboland.
The Ndokwa Professional Network responded after the senator reportedly claimed that the Ndokwa-Ukwuani people speak Igbo and share Igbo ancestry.
The group characterized his remarks as both inaccurate and misleading.
In a statement signed by its President, Mr. Nigel Ojji; General Secretary, Dr. Great Ijomah; and Board of Trustees Chairman, Dr. Edike Kaine, the NPN rejected the senator’s assertions, emphasizing that they do not represent the true heritage or culture of the people.
“While we hold Senator Nwoko in high regard as a respected legislator and advocate for Delta North interests, his recent comments are factually incorrect, historically misleading, and culturally inconsistent with the established realities of the Ndokwa-Ukwuani people of Delta State,” the group stated.
The organization pointed out that Senator Nwoko is not a native of Ndokwa-Ukwuani and may therefore lack an accurate understanding of their ancestry and cultural heritage.
They noted that he originates from Idumuje-Ugboko in Aniocha North, which is outside the Ndokwa region.
Additionally, they mentioned that the senator spent a significant portion of his early life abroad, which may have influenced his comprehension of the region’s ethnolinguistic history.
While acknowledging his potential good intentions, NPN contended that his position is not accurate.
“Ndokwa-Ukwuani are not Igbo…” the statement emphasized, clarifying that while proximity to South-East states has led to some cultural overlaps, it does not imply a shared ethnic origin.
NPN highlighted that their communities have distinct governance systems, cultural practices, and ancestral lineages that differ from those of the Igbo people.
They urged researchers and commentators to refrain from generalizations that could undermine their heritage.
NPN called for greater sensitivity when discussing ethnic classifications, cautioning that careless statements may distort identity and history.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ndokwa Professional Network's stance on the Igbo identity claim?
The Ndokwa Professional Network firmly rejects the claim that the Ndokwa-Ukwuani people are part of the Igbo ethnic group, emphasizing their unique identity and cultural heritage.
Who is Senator Ned Nwoko?
Senator Ned Nwoko is a legislator representing Delta North, but he is not a native of the Ndokwa-Ukwuani region, which the Ndokwa Professional Network believes affects his understanding of their culture and heritage.
What cultural differences exist between Ndokwa-Ukwuani and Igbo communities?
The Ndokwa-Ukwuani communities have distinct governance systems, cultural practices, and ancestral lineages that set them apart from the Igbo people, despite some cultural overlaps due to geographical proximity.
