Nollywood actor, Jim Iyke, has blamed continuous agitations in the South-East on the marginalisation of the Igbos in Nigeria but added that calls for secession is not a preferable means to seek redress.

Agitations for Biafra Republic has been a major issue in Nigerian political landscape in recent years as unknown gunmen have continued to attack and burn down public facilities in the South East region following government’s forceful quelling of street demonstrations by protagonists.

In an interview with BBC Igbo on Friday, Jim Iyke said though the Igbos deserve to be better treated in Nigeria, they have continued to be marginalised. 

“Nigeria isn’t working for us. We survive anywhere we go, thrive, and bring prosperity if you make it conducive for us. No one has benefited from our existence as Igbo people the way Nigeria has. We have developed this country by our blood, sweat, and skills,” Jim Iyke said. 

“Igbo people deserve a place in Nigeria like others. I’m rounded. I studied in the North, hustled in the West, and I’m from the East. I travelled the world and saw how things are done, lived across three countries. I’m half American.”

He further said unfolding developments in the South-East were caused by “systematic oppression” suffered in the region, adding that those who know the history of Biafra would not call for violence as a way forward.  

“What we see now is a consequence of systematic oppression on a people. You rejected us. We said, ‘we don’t want violence. Give us our share and let’s leave.’ If you know the history of Biafra, you won’t seek violence,” Jim Iyke said. 

In June, the leader of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) agaition, Nnamdi Kanu, was repatriated from Kenya to face trial in Nigeria.

Mr Kanu was arraigned at the Federal High Court, Abuja, and was remanded until the continuation of his trial set for July 26. 

He faces an 11-count charge of treason, treasonable felony, terrorism and illegal possession of firearms, among others.