Agubuzu's Memoir Reveals Igbo Diplomats' Post-War Struggles

In his autobiography, "Zero Hour Graduate: A Nigerian Diplomat’s Journey Through War and Service to Triumph," retired Nigerian diplomat and traditional ruler Ambassador Lawrence Agubuzu recounts the challenges faced by Igbo officers in Nigeria's Foreign Service following the Nigeria–Biafra Civil War, which ended in January 1970. Agubuzu, who supported the war effort through the Olo and Amagu Umulokpa Civil Defence Organisation and served as an intelligence officer with the Biafran Organisation of Freedom Fighters, reported for duty at the Ministry of External Affairs in Lagos in April 1971.

He describes how officers from the former East Central State were sidelined and restricted in their career opportunities due to their association with Biafra. For instance, while a classmate from Benue Plateau State received a prompt posting to the United Nations, East Central State officers were kept at headquarters.

Eventually, their postings were limited to West Africa. Agubuzu also recounts the case of Mike Amobi, who faced marriage restrictions due to security clearances, ultimately choosing his career over personal life.