The pain, exhaustion, and frustration of the Igbo community resonate deeply within me. As a psychiatric social worker, I witness firsthand the trauma that has accumulated over decades due to political failures, pervasive poverty, identity conflicts, and the spread of misinformation.
Let me be clear:
Self-determination is not a crime. Every community has the inherent right to express its identity, protect its dignity, and pursue development. This is a fundamental human aspiration.
The atrocities of kidnapping, killings, mutilations, and trafficking in Nigeria are condemnable; they are criminal behaviors. The mental health impact of this crisis is very real and alarming. Growing up in an environment filled with fear normalizes violence, creating a generation trapped in survival mode instead of one that can thrive and grow. This is the true danger for Nigerians presently.
Acknowledgment Matters
I want to extend my gratitude to the U.S. government and President Trump for recognizing the targeted violence against Christians in Nigeria. Such acknowledgment validates the experiences of victims and sends a message that the world is paying attention.
However, recognition alone is insufficient. We require:
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Strengthened intelligence cooperation to pinpoint violent groups and their financiers.
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Technical support to dismantle criminal networks while safeguarding civilian lives.
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Rehabilitation programs aimed at helping traumatized communities and children.
Nigeria deserves strategic, humanitarian, and justice-rooted support.
Our children deserve better. Our land deserves peace. Our future deserves truth.
We trust the American Government and we believe in the American spirit of
equal rights, fairness, equity and justice.
Anyi toro ato.
