The Igbo community in Oyo State has called for increased political representation and stronger participation in governance, declaring its commitment to the state’s development and peaceful coexistence with other ethnic groups.

The call was made by the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Seyi Makinde on Community Relations (Igbo Community), Tallest Innocent, during the 2026 Igbo Day and New Yam Festival celebration held in Ibadan on Wednesday.

Innocent, who also chairs the State Igbo Peace Committee, described the annual celebration as an opportunity to promote Igbo cultural identity, unity and the community’s contributions to Oyo State.

He maintained that Igbos were not merely residents of the state but important contributors to its economic growth, particularly in commerce, transportation, education, agriculture, hospitality and real estate.

“We are Igbo by heritage, Nigerians by nationality and proud stakeholders in the development of Oyo,” he said.

The governor’s aide commended Makinde for what he described as an inclusive approach to governance, particularly the creation of an office dedicated to relations with the Igbo community. He said the arrangement had provided an avenue for the community to engage with the state government.

However, Innocent urged the administration to strengthen the existing relationship by expanding political representation, improving access to empowerment programmes and encouraging greater collaboration with Igbo investors.

He also noted that members of the community were spread across all 33 local government areas of the state, stressing the importance of their participation in decisions affecting Oyo’s future.

Ahead of future elections, he urged Igbos in the state to remain peaceful, politically informed and actively involved in democratic activities, saying political choices should be guided by issues, performance and development priorities.

The community leader further called for unity among Igbos, warning that internal disagreements could weaken their collective voice. He urged members to put shared interests above personal ambitions and sustain reconciliation efforts.

He also commended the Yoruba people and other ethnic groups in Oyo for promoting peaceful coexistence, while encouraging women and young people to take more active roles in leadership, education, entrepreneurship and community development.

The celebration featured cultural performances and activities marking Iri Ji, the traditional New Yam Festival. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to unity, peaceful coexistence and cooperation with other stakeholders in the development of Oyo State.