When we speak of the Igala man or woman, we speak of a people whose strength runs as deep as the mighty River Niger that kisses their land. The Igala spirit is like the iroko tree—rooted in resilience, towering in character, and providing shade for generations. A wise Igala saying goes, “The hand that cuts the yam shares it; if you cut it unevenly, you cannot hide it.” This reflects the Igala essence: they are givers, builders, and community-oriented individuals who thrive on fairness and justice.
But who is an Igala man or woman without politics? This is the question that often lingers in our minds as we look across the vast landscape of our homeland in Eastern Kogi State. The Igala man or woman is much more than a political player. Indeed, even without the glitz and glamour of political power, the Igala people shine brightly in every sphere of life they find themselves in.
The Igala man is known for his resilience; the Igala woman, for her industrious spirit. They thrive wherever they go. Whether it’s the bustling markets of Lokoja, the corporate towers of Lagos, or the creative hubs of Abuja, the Igala people distinguish themselves as capable, reliable, and innovative individuals. They are teachers, doctors, lawyers, engineers, entrepreneurs, and scholars making waves not only in Kogi State but across the entire nation. Their achievements are testimonies that one does not need political titles to make an impact.
It is said, *”The bird that has learned to fly without perching must beware of the hunter’s stone.”* This reflects the Igala’s tenacity. Despite being a minority nationally, they refuse to be limited by this status. The Igala people rise, not because they are born into privilege but because they are forged in the fire of hard work and dedication. Their creativity is astounding, and their intelligence is unmatched. They are like the blacksmith who, with raw iron and a strong arm, shapes tools that build civilizations.
The Igala man’s strength is not in the political offices he holds but in the sweat of his brow and the strength of his resolve. The Igala woman does not wait for political recognition; she builds her empire with her hands and the wisdom passed down from her ancestors. It is this enterprising spirit that has seen them excel in various fields, turning adversity into opportunity. They are known for their consistency, a trait that sets them apart. The Igala people understand that *”The yam that will grow tall does not grow with its roots exposed.”* They plant themselves deep in their chosen fields, knowing that the fruit of their labor will one day nourish many.
Yet, as we celebrate these virtues, we must also speak some hard truths. There are many Igala elites who have distinguished themselves in various sectors—medicine, academia, business, and the arts. These are the trailblazers who have shown that greatness is not limited to those who wield political power. But how many of these elites reach back to empower their people?
Too often, we see a reluctance to lift others up. Some elites fear that the success of those they help may overshadow their own. Some of them see no reason to support their people because they have no political ambitions. But empowerment should not be transactional; it should be an obligation we owe to our heritage. The time has come for these elites to have a change of heart. Let us remember the saying, *”A river that forgets its source will dry up.”* Empowerment is not a gift; it is a duty. We must not wait until the eve of elections to connect with our roots. We must support and uplift our people every day.
As we speak, there are whispers and movements towards bringing the Igalas together in preparation for the 2027 elections. But why must we wait until then to discuss our collective progress? Unity should not be a tool used only during election seasons; it should be the bedrock of our community. The Igala people are like a bundle of broomsticks: individually weak but together, unbreakable.
Politics, while significant, should only be a bonus for us. Our true power lies in our ability to work hard, to excel in whatever field we find ourselves in, and to help lift one another. Let us not be swayed by the allure of political power alone. Instead, let us focus on building a legacy that transcends any political office.
To every Igala man and woman reading this, remember that our strength does not lie in political titles but in our capacity to thrive in any circumstance. Our history is rich, our culture vibrant, and our people resilient. We are self-sufficient, and our worth is not determined by the political offices we hold but by the impact we make in the lives of others. Let us go forth and distinguish ourselves in our chosen fields, knowing that when we succeed, we carry the hopes and dreams of the Igala people with us.
To our elites, this is a call to action. Empower your people not just when the election bells ring but whenever the opportunity arises. Remember, *”The hand that lifts another will never be empty.”*
We are Igala, a people destined for greatness. Politics can be a bonus. Our essence is found in our resilience, our enterprising nature, and our ability to create, innovate, and excel. We are Igala, and that, my people, is more than enough.
AKPALA MICHAEL JR WRITES
