The Ndokwa Professional Network (NPN) has faulted Senator Ned Nwoko over his recent claim that the Ndokwa-Ukwuani people of Delta State are Igbos who speak the Igbo language.
The group described the statement as inaccurate and misleading, saying it does not reflect the historical and cultural realities of the Ndokwa-Ukwuani people.
In a statement signed by NPN President Nigel Ojji, General Secretary Dr Great Ijomah, and Board of Trustee Chairman Dr Edike Kaine, the group maintained that Senator Nwoko is not from the Ndokwa-Ukwuani region and therefore lacks the firsthand understanding of their history and culture. “Senator Nwoko hails from Idumuje-Ugboko in Aniocha North Local Government Area, which is outside the Ndokwa-Ukwuani axis,” the statement noted.
The NPN explained that while there may be some linguistic and cultural similarities due to proximity, the Ndokwa-Ukwuani people are distinct from the Igbos. “To assume that sharing similar words or expressions makes us Igbo is a historical and anthropological error,” the group said, adding that such assumptions could distort the identity of their people.
They further stated that even though some researchers classify the Ndokwa-Ukwuani language as ‘Igboid’, it does not define their ethnicity. The group said their language, traditions, and governance systems have unique structures that distinguish them from the Igbo ethnic group. “Our traditional titles, deities, and ancestral institutions are exclusive to the Ndokwa-Ukwuani experience,” they added.
The group went on to explain that ethnic identity is not defined by language alone but by shared history, culture, and collective self-identification. “Reducing our heritage to a linguistic similarity undermines generations of cultural continuity,” the NPN warned. They also urged public figures and scholars to handle discussions about ethnicity with caution and respect for historical facts.
In conclusion, the NPN reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the Ndokwa-Ukwuani identity and promoting mutual respect among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups. “We remain proud of who we are and will continue to preserve the integrity of our heritage,” the statement concluded.
