Navigating the Igbo Mindset: Balancing Tribal Identity and National Belonging

The Igbo worldview, shaped by centuries of cultural evolution and collective experiences, has undoubtedly instilled in us a strong sense of tribal identity and loyalty. This is not merely a superficial phenomenon, but a profound expression of our communal ethos, where the collective good often takes precedence over individual interests. The reality today is that we are seeing personal interest as a dominant factor, which has contributed in making it impossible for us to organize ourselves or have a collective agenda for our development as a people.

However, it would be a disservice to our rich heritage to dismiss this inclination as a simple “tribal perspective.” Rather, we must recognize that it is a complex interplay of historical, social, and psychological factors that have contributed to this mindset. The legacies of colonialism, the traumas of the Biafran War, and the persistent challenges of marginalization and inequality within the Nigerian political economy have all played a role in shaping our collective psyche.

It is also true that there is a tendency among some Igbos to attribute our shortcomings to external factors, rather than taking full responsibility for our actions or inactions. This “victim mentality,” as it is often labeled, is not unique to our community, but is a common coping mechanism employed by marginalized groups grappling with systemic barriers and perceived oppression. Therefore, we should not allow ourselves to self destruct, but to be aware that we are responsible for our future and it starts with us going back to our matra of “onye ayana nwaneya”.

Furthermore, to dismiss this as a mere excuse for our failings would be a gross oversimplification. The political and economic stagnation observed in many Igbo-dominated states is not solely a result of this perceived victim mentality, but a complex interplay of factors, including, lack of leadership at all levels, historical marginalization among ourselves, resource distribution imbalances, our inactions, collective disregard for law and order.

It is undeniable that we, as Igbos, possess an immense capacity for innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership. The achievements of our people in various fields, both within and beyond the shores of our homeland, are a testament to this. Yet, the full realization of this potential has been thwarted by systemic challenges that require a multifaceted approach to address.

Rather than succumbing to a narrative of blame and recrimination, we must strive to cultivate a more nuanced understanding of our history, our challenges, and our potential. By acknowledging the complexities that have shaped our collective psyche, we can begin to chart a path forward that leverages our strengths, addresses our weaknesses, and ultimately empowers our community to reach new heights of political, economic, and social progress as we pledge to Nigeria as our beloved country.

Dr. Jerry Igwilo
A political analyst & commentator.

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