Journal of African Studies and Sustainable Development

This paper is entitled “Biafran Agitation: An Evaluation.” It critically evaluates the resurgence of Biafran agitation within the broader context of Nigeria's post-colonial political development. Drawing on the historical antecedents of the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970), it explores the continuity of separatist sentiment among the Igbo ethnic group and the evolving strategies of pro Biafra movements, particularly the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Employing expository analyticaland evaluativemethods of research that integrates political history, conflict studies, and federalism theory, the study investigates the root causes of agitation-including perceived marginalization, identity politics, and institutional failure-and assesses the Nigerian state's policy responses ranging from militarization to selective dialogue. The paper argues that the persistence of the Biafran question reflects deeper structural flaws in Nigeria's federal arrangement and highlights the inadequacy of coercive state strategies. It concludes by advocating for constitutional restructuring, equitable governance, and sustained dialogue as essential steps toward de escalation and long-term national integration. The study contributes to current scholarship on post colonial secessionist movements and the challenges of nation-building in plural societies or multi ethnic states.

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