The Otu Oka Iwu Igbo Lawyers Association recently held its law week under the theme “Strengthening Igbo Unity: The Quest for the Creation of a New State in the South East.”
A key highlight was the goodwill message delivered by Paul Harris Ogbole, SAN, a distinguished legal luminary and Senior Advocate of Nigeria. His inspiring address focused on unity, the Igbo spirit, and the long-standing demand for state creation in the South East.
Background of Otu Oka Iwu
Otu Oka Iwu is an association of lawyers of Igbo extraction, fostering unity, collaboration, and professional growth among its members. The group also serves as a platform for the promotion of legal excellence and addresses socio-political issues affecting the Igbo people and the Nigerian nation.
Its activities are rooted in advancing the interests of lawyers while championing Igbo culture, unity, and equity in national matters.
The Agitation for State Creation
The demand for the creation of a new state in the South East stems from the need to address political and economic imbalances in Nigeria’s geopolitical structure. Currently, the South East has the least number of states among Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
Advocates argue that creating an additional state would promote equity, enhance development, and correct historical imbalances in resource allocation and representation.
Paul Harris Ogbole, SAN: Advocate for Unity and Equity
Paul Harris Ogbole, SAN, is a respected Senior Advocate of Nigeria and a prominent figure in the Nigerian legal community. During his address at the law week, Ogbole emphasised the strategic importance of Otu Oka Iwu in fostering unity and promoting the Igbo spirit of resilience, nationalism, and progress.
He commended the association for its leadership role in legal and societal development, describing it as a representation of the Igbo determination to rise above challenges and achieve greatness.
Key Points from His Speech
- On Igbo Unity and Spirit: Ogbole highlighted the Igbo spirit as a model of strength, industry, and innovation, referencing the widely acclaimed Igbo apprenticeship system as a blueprint for business success. He lauded the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) for adopting the apprenticeship model as part of its programs.
- Support for State Creation: The learned silk expressed unequivocal support for the creation of an additional state in the South East, describing it as essential for parity and development. Drawing from his experience as an advocate for a state for the Idoma people, Ogbole empathized with the aspirations of the Igbo people.
- Vision for the Law Week: Ogbole praised the choice of the theme and expressed hope for fruitful deliberations, urging participants to take lessons that could guide the push for equity and development.
Conclusion
Paul Harris Ogbole, SAN, through his Goodwill Message, reaffirmed his commitment to justice and equity. His advocacy for Igbo unity and state creation aligns with the broader objectives of Otu Oka Iwu in promoting legal excellence and socio-political advancement for the Igbo people. As discussions around state creation continue, his support highlights the need for inclusive governance and representation in Nigeria.
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