Apparently disturbed by the divisions and stunted development caused by the Nigeria-Biafra civil war, some eminent Nigerians are determined to ensure that the country did not return to the deadly road, Professor Pat Utomi has said.
Recall that Nigeria fought a bitter 30-month civil war that left in its wake a sharply divided nation with mutual suspicion, hatred and resentment across racial and regional lines.
According to Prof. Utomi, this is the reason they will gather via zoom on January 14 to brainstorm on the issue, he said on Monday, with media executives.
Utomi, who is the chairman of the gathering, with theme: “2nd Never Again Conference: 51 Years After the Nigerian-Biafran Civil War”, said due to the coronavirus pandemic the second edition of the conference is holding virtually for the first time.
While the keynote address will be delivered by His Lordship, Most Rev. Matthew Kukah, Bishop of Sokoto Catholic Diocese, former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo is the Special Guest of Honour, he said.
The conference is expected to be chaired by Afenifere leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo and Nigeria’s former Finance Minister, Dr. Kalu Idika Kalu, amongst others.
Among the eminent panelists include the only surviving minister from the First Republic, Chief Mbazulike Amechi; Alhaji Tanko Yakasai; Mr. Peter Obi; Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed; Senator Shehu Sani; Lady Onyeka Onwenu; Amb. Godknows Igali; Alhaji Ahmed Joda, Prof. Ladi Hamalai and Mrs. Charity Shekari.
