Opinion
By Norbert Ofordile
THE leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the foremost socio-cultural organization representing the Igbo people, has consistently emphasized the principles of equity, fairness, and justice within its governance structure. In 2004, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyawu led a national constitution review committee that instituted a four-year leadership tenure and introduced an alphabetical rotation scheme for the seven states comprising the Igbo Language Group: Abia, Anambra, Delta, Ebonyi, Enugu, Imo, and Rivers. This initiative aimed to promote inclusivity and ensure each state had the opportunity to engage in the leadership of this prestigious organization.
Historically, this zoning arrangement has fostered solidarity among member states and facilitated smooth leadership transitions. Notable leaders, including Deede Joe Irukwu from Abia, Dr. Dozie Ikedife from Anambra, Amb. Ralph Uwechue from Delta, Chief Enwo Igarewe from Ebonyi, Chief John Nnia Nwodo from Enugu, and more recently, Amb. George Obiozor and Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyawu from Imo State, have exemplified the dynamic leadership Ohanaeze has cultivated. Their tenures have significantly bolstered the organization’s reputation and outreach, with the current leadership term concluding on January 10, 2025.
As the national elections for Ohanaeze Worldwide approach, anticipation and intensity fill the air. Traditionally, these elections have been characterized by passionate mobilization, strategic alliances, and the presentation of the best candidates among aspirants. However, the current context surrounding the upcoming elections, particularly in Rivers State, presents a unique set of challenges that diverge from past experiences.
The prevailing uncertainty and divisions within Rivers State are critical factors that could greatly influence the electoral outcome. Various stakeholders have voiced their concerns, leading to differing opinions and interests, further complicating the electoral landscape. The strategic importance of Rivers State in the broader Igbo socio-political context has added to this charged atmosphere.
Some voices within the community have expressed dissatisfaction with the prospect of electing a President General from Rivers State, based largely on past experiences with individuals from the state. While it is essential to uphold standards for selecting the Ohanaeze President General, many capable individuals from Rivers prioritize their political careers, perceiving participation in Ohanaeze leadership as potentially detrimental. Some even deny their Igbo origin for political patronage.
Since the passing of the Deputy President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, High Chief Joel Kroham, aged 74, on August 27, 2022, Rivers State has yet to produce a replacement. The burial of High Chief Kroham was made possible through the efforts of Imo State Governor Sen. Hope Uzodimma and the then President General Amb. George Obiozor, defying significant challenges.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has not denied Rivers State their constitutional right to produce the next President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide. What we are saying is that we encourage our brothers in Rivers State to present candidates who meet the expected qualifications and criteria.
Aspiring candidates for the position of President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide must meet critical criteria and embody specific attributes. It is paramount that the President General remains unswayed by pressures from other ethnic groups, upholds self-respect and dignity, and commands the support of the general assembly in all roles held within Ohanaeze. A history of clean stewardship in any previous positions is also essential.
Recently, three individuals have declared their intention to contest for the President General position: Barrister Uche Okwukwu, the former Secretary General under Nnia Nwodo; Barrister Jackson Agbai Omenazu; and Eze-elect Chief Fine Face. Among these candidates, Barrister Uche Okwukwu has stirred skepticism.
Elected on January 10, 2017, Barrister Okwukwu, originally from Umuokpurilu, Elele in the Ikwere Local Government Area of Rivers State, served as Secretary General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, a position zoned to Rivers State. However, his tenure was marred by controversies, culminating in a suspension by the Ohanaeze National Executive Council (NEC), which was later rectified by the Ime-Obi. This suspension remains a significant point of contention.
Following a fallout with mainstream Ohanaeze and the Ime-Obi, Barrister Okwukwu allied with Prince Richard Ozobu and others to conduct a factional election, resulting in Eng. Chidi Ibe being elected President General, with Barrister Okwukwu becoming the Deputy President General and Mazi Okechukwu Isinguzoro assuming the role of Secretary General. His candidacy raises a pivotal question: which Ohanaeze Ndigbo does he seek to lead, especially as he is still the Deputy President General of Eng. Chidi Ibe’s faction?
We recalled that Mazi Okechukwu Isinguzoro who was one of the Abia State delegates at Ohanaeze Worldwide elections that produced Amb George Obiozor and the present NEC of Ohanaeze on 10th of January 2021 upon his defection to Eng. Chidi Ibe-led faction invaded the Ohanaeze National Secretariat with his group.
In contrast, Barrister Jackson Agbai Omenazu boasts a long-standing history within Ohanaeze Worldwide and is recognized as a stakeholder in Ohanaeze affairs within Rivers State. While it is constitutional that all individuals of Igbo descent automatically become members of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, the criteria for becoming President General are far more stringent.
This upcoming election is not just a contest for leadership; it is an opportunity for the Igbo nation to reaffirm its commitment to foundational values while strategically navigating the complexities of contemporary politics. A steadfast dedication to fostering unity, inclusivity, and progressive leadership within the organization is essential to this process.
***Norbert Ofordile is the convener of Odimma Ala-Igbo.
A.I
Nov. 27, 2024
Tags: Norbert Ofordile. Ohanaeze Ndigbo
