Why ‘Biafra’ Is A Cultural Identity, Not A Separatist Label – Kcee

Kcee

Nigerian singer Kingsley Okonkwo, popularly known as Kcee, has clarified that his self-description as “Biafran” reflects cultural heritage rather than political agitation.

During an interview on Yanga 89.9 FM in Lagos, the artist explained that he views the term “Biafran” as an ethnocultural identifier for Igbo people—comparable to how northern and southwestern groups identify as Arewa and Oduduwa.

Kcee stated, “As far as I am concerned, every Igbo man under the sun today is a Biafran. I am a Biafran. I am an Igbo man and Biafra is where we are from. It is just like the Arewas and Oduduwas.”

He went on to highlight the origins of the name, pointing out that “Biafra was created in 1967. Frank Opigo from Bayelsa suggested that name for the Igbos and we adopted it in 1967. Before 1967, who are we? Igbos. Being Igbo means you are still a Biafran.”

His remarks have continued to spark conversation online as he attempts to draw a clear line between cultural identity and secessionist movements.