Dr. Emmanuel Nweke Okafor, a prominent voice in the Nteje community, has expressed his support for the concept of MASS RETURN as a vital tool for unity, cultural preservation, and community development. In response to a recent letter from the Nteje Development Union (NDU) discouraging the proposed Ifite Nteje Mass Return, Dr. Okafor shared his reflections, urging the community to embrace this practice as a means of fostering progress and inclusion.
WHAT IS MASS RETURN?
Mass Return refers to a communal gathering where members of a village or extended family come together to deliberate on their collective welfare. For the Nteje people, this cultural tradition serves as an opportunity to assess achievements, address challenges, and plan for the future. Dr. Okafor emphasized that Mass Return is not just a cultural practice but also a constitutional right protected under Nigeria’s democratic principles.
“Mass Return is an exclusive right for any community to gather, discuss, and decide on its development. It symbolizes unity, self-determination, and a commitment to collective progress,” he explained.
BENEFITS OF MASS RETURN
Dr. Okafor highlighted several benefits of Mass Return, including:
– UNITY AND COHESION: Strengthening bonds among community members, especially those who have migrated to other parts of the country or abroad.
– CULTURAL RECONNECTION: Reaffirming cultural values and identity.
– COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT: Providing a platform to address issues such as infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic initiatives tailored to the community’s needs.
– INCLUSIVE DECISION-MAKING: Allowing all voices to be heard and fostering democratic governance.
Dr. Okafor encouraged all major and minor villages in Nteje to adopt this practice, noting that virtual platforms can complement physical gatherings to include those unable to attend in person.
CONCERNS ABOUT THE NDU’S POSITION
Dr. Okafor expressed disappointment over the NDU’s recent letter discouraging the Ifite Nteje Mass Return. He urged the NDU to avoid taking sides in internal disputes and to uphold the constitutional rights of all villages to organize such gatherings.
“The fact that the faction advocating for the Mass Return in Ifite Nteje is not supported by the NDU should not undermine this noble concept. NDU must lead with impartiality and respect for democratic principles,” he stated.
He also emphasized the importance of respecting the eldest man in Nteje-Abogu, urging the NDU to collaborate closely with traditional authorities to avoid unnecessary tensions.
A VISION FOR THE FUTURE
Dr. Okafor called on the Nteje people to embrace the spirit of Mass Return as a pathway to peace, progress, and unity. He encouraged open dialogue and mutual respect among all stakeholders, stressing that the strength of the community lies in its collective will to advance together.
“Mass Return is not just about returning home; it is about coming together with a shared vision for a better future. Let us uphold this tradition and ensure that Nteje remains a beacon of unity and progress,” he concluded.