The United States Military Veterans of Igbo Descent (AVIDUSA) have called for Nigeria to revert to the 1960/63 regional autonomy model.
According to AVIDUSA, this is the only viable solution to mitigate the country's escalating socio-economic and security problems.
The statement, signed by AVIDUSA President Sylvester Onyia and Secretary Dr. Godson Obiagwu, emphasized the urgency of this restructuring.
"A return to the 1960/63 regional autonomy is the only way to mitigate Nigeria's socio-economic and security problems," the statement read.
The call for regional autonomy echoes demands made in 2017 by Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
During a meeting with South-East governors chaired by Engr. Dave Umahi, Kanu outlined several key demands.
These included upgrading Enugu to a grade one international airport and transforming Owerri airport into a functional cargo hub. He also called for the revival of moribund industries in the South-East and South-South regions to create job opportunities for thousands of youths and graduates.
Kanu warned that failure to address these issues would lead to a referendum on Biafran status within Nigeria. "If they fail to address these problems, Biafrans will demand a referendum on their status as foreigners in Nigeria," he stated.
AVIDUSA's statement also highlighted the formation of the South-East Development Commission as a direct result of the change-agitation led by IPOB and Kanu.
The organization further demanded the immediate release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, who is currently detained without authorization. "Release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu now," the statement urged.
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