Opinion
By Agbeze Ireke Kalu Onuma
OHANAEZE Ndigbo, once a bastion of dignity within the Igbo community, now faces a crisis of identity and purpose. The organization’s noble mission has been undermined by leaders whose ascent was marked by cunning rather than capability, leading to ineffective governance and a loss of public trust.
This shift from esteemed institution to a subject of derision signals deep-rooted issues within Ohanaeze Ndigbo. The group, initially formed to champion the Igbo people’s rights and interests, now struggles under the weight of questionable leadership, casting a long shadow over its past achievements.
The current state of Ohanaeze is a stark departure from its founding principles. Rather than uniting and uplifting the community, it has devolved into a platform for theatrical displays and egotistical pursuits. The organization’s core values of empowerment and progress have been eclipsed by the self-interest of a select few, undermining the collective good.
For the Igbo in Lagos, the decline in leadership quality within Ohanaeze is particularly disheartening. A community known for its cultural richness and tenacity now finds itself represented by figures lacking in integrity and vision. These leaders have not only failed to embody the community’s values but have also tarnished its reputation more broadly.
It is crucial for the Igbo community to assert itself and demand a return to the founding ideals of Ohanaeze. The organization must be wrested from the clutches of ineptitude and redirected towards its true purpose: fostering unity, progress, and effective advocacy for the Igbo in Lagos.
The current landscape of Ohanaeze in Lagos is one of turmoil and division. The once cohesive voice of the Igbo now fractures into a cacophony of conflicting interests. Amidst a maze of egos and divergent objectives, the community stands lost, lacking clear direction and leadership.
In recent years, Ohanaeze in Lagos has succumbed to commercial influences and internal rifts, diminishing its value and turning it into an arena of contention. The respect for its laws and constitution has been cast aside by those who claim to uphold them, abandoning the very tenets that once united the community.
The rise of various factions within Ohanaeze, each vying for dominance, has shattered the unity that was the community’s hallmark. This fragmentation has planted discord and uncertainty, weakening the collective resolve needed for advancement and success.
A recent video featuring Chief Iwuanyanwu, President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, surrounded by self-proclaimed representatives of Ohanaeze Lagos, exemplifies the absurdity that has befallen the community. This display of pseudo-leadership, with its superficial acts and pretenses, mirrors the degradation of the community’s once-solid foundation of integrity and purpose.
Reclaiming Integrity: The Path Forward for Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Lagos
The Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s presence in Lagos has reached a pivotal moment of self-reflection and action. The chaos and confusion that have plagued the organization call for a collective awakening to restore our identity, integrity, and unity. It’s time to shed the masks of pretence and division, and with a united front, reinstate the dignity and purpose of Ohanaeze Ndigbo. We must forge a path that honors our heritage, strengthens our bonds, and illuminates the way to a brighter future.
As we confront the cloak of clownishness that has enveloped Ohanaeze, we must usher in an era of responsible, principled leadership. Standing in solidarity, we are called upon to rekindle Ohanaeze Ndigbo, ensuring it stands as a beacon of unity, strength, and pride for our community.
The future of Ohanaeze, and consequently the Igbo community in Lagos, hinges on our unwavering commitment to the values and principles that define us. We must not let the legacy of our ancestors be sullied by the few who engage in antics contrary to our ethos. Instead, we are tasked with building a foundation of integrity, respect, and excellence that will steer us toward a more prosperous future.
Our definition and understanding of democracy and freedom of speech has become entangled in our often misconstrued history of Ndigbo and our primitive lifestyle. This confluence of factors has contributed to the situation we are faced with today—an environment characterized by a lack of respect and patience, both towards each other and our leadership. The facade of phony chieftaincy titles only serves to highlight the shortcomings within our once-revered traditional institutions, exposing a deeper schism that threatens our collective progress and unity.
Reflecting on a few years ago, a similar challenge and serious conflict arose among Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Bamako, Mali, under the leadership of Amb. Raph Uwechue. I found myself embroiled in this tumultuous situation, having to travel on two separate occasions as his envoy to mediate and resolve the issues at hand. The core ethos of the organization had been violated, giving rise to internal factions, physical altercations, arrests, and a pervasive sense of fear and mistrust within the community. The chaos had escalated to the extent that even a Catholic priest of Igbo extraction became entangled in the fray, facing unwarranted attacks on his reputation and attempts to disrupt his sacred duties.
The escalating tensions in Bamako resulted in the Malian government losing confidence in Ndigbo residents, prompting them to halt the issuance of resident permits due to uncertainties surrounding the Ohanaeze factions. The negative sentiments extended to the Nigerian embassy, where concerns were voiced about the deteriorating situation. After a culmination of unresolved issues, the ultimate action taken was the proscription of Ohanaeze until internal disputes were effectively resolved.
While other Nigerian communities continued to benefit from national opportunities, the isolation and disarray among Ndigbo hindered their participation and contribution, further alienating the community from the broader national discourse. The echoes of these past events reverberate in the current landscape of Ohanaeze in Lagos, a distressing reflection of a system in disarray and disrepute.
To address these systemic concerns, a comprehensive review and overhaul of what we once considered our multi-purpose vehicle, Ohanaeze, are imperative. The deteriorating state of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide is a stain on our collective identity and demands urgent action. It is incumbent upon us to engage in introspection, dialogue, and courageous reforms to restore the integrity, purpose, and efficacy of our esteemed institution. The time for transformation is upon us, requiring a commitment to transparency, accountability, and unity, to pave the way for a reinvigorated and impactful Ohanaeze Ndigbo that truly serves the interests and aspirations of our community.
At this critical crossroads, the path forward is one of courage, resolve, and decisive action. The silence of the Elders in Lagos and beyond is deafening, signaling a complicity that must be addressed. The revered Ime Obi, now a mere shadow of its former glory, must rise anew, reclaiming its role as the custodian of integrity and tradition within our community. The era of complacency and inaction has passed; a bold and radical transformation is imperative to expel the toxins that threaten our collective spirit.
Leadership within Ohanaeze Ndigbo is not a business venture nor a stage for self-aggrandizement; it is a sacred trust, a solemn duty to honor the values and traditions of our people with integrity and dedication. Those who misuse this institution for personal gain must be held accountable and stripped of their undue influence.
A sweeping and uncompromising overhaul of Ohanaeze Ndigbo at all levels is overdue. By dismantling branches outside Igboland and centralizing our efforts, we can recapture the essence and purpose of our organization. The outdated roadmap that has led us astray must be replaced with a new vision that aligns with our current realities and aspirations, free from the meddling of self-serving individuals who have diverted us from our true course. Together, we can revitalize Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Lagos, making it a true representation of our community’s unity, strength, and pride.
The challenges we face are formidable, yet the solution lies in a holistic approach that addresses the root causes of our predicament. Restructuring Ohanaeze with an unwavering focus on integrity, transparency, and service will pave the way for a renaissance of leadership that truly reflects the spirit and ethos of our people. The time for change is now, and it begins with a bold commitment to a future guided by principle, unity, and prosperity for all.
In the complexities of the modern world, it is crucial that we stand united, drawing strength from our shared heritage and common goals. By reclaiming the integrity and purpose of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, we can reestablish our position as respected and influential members of society, dedicated to the advancement and empowerment of all Igbo people.
We must rise above the distractions of clownishness and reaffirm our commitment to unity, progress, and success. With determination, resilience, and a firm belief in our values, we can revitalize Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Lagos and secure a brighter future for generations to come.
Speaking from a position of deep insight and first-hand experience, having served in various capacities within Ohanaeze and engaged in Igbo community affairs, I witness a stark contrast to the vision and values of our founding fathers and respected Elders. The legacy of leaders like Ozobu, Nwabueze, C C Onoh, Ndubuisi Kanu, Uwechue, Ikedife, Chukwumerije, Umeadi, and others is a testament to excellence, unity, and the advancement of the Igbo people. Their vision and dedication led us to a defining moment post-war when we united to defend, protect, and advocate for Ndigbo during the Oputa panel hearings—a time when solidarity and purpose were our guiding forces. We must now strive to emulate their commitment to justice and truth, ensuring that Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Lagos embodies the same spirit of unity and purpose.
However, the years that followed have seen a departure from these noble ideals. The distortion of realities and silencing of conscience in favor of personal agendas have led to an erosion of trust, integrity, and collective vision. We find ourselves disconnected from the principles that once guided our path and united us in common cause.
The urgency of this moment cannot be overstated. A reckoning is upon us, calling for a bold and unwavering commitment to restoring the dignity, purpose, and unity of Ohanaeze Ndigbo not just in Lagos but everywhere. The time to act is now, to reclaim our heritage, honor our past, and forge a future that is reflective of our values, aspirations, and shared identity as members of the Igbo community.
As we stand at this critical juncture, let us draw strength from the legacy of our forebears, the wisdom of our elders, and the resilience of our people. The time for change is now, and it begins with each of us embracing our role as custodians of our heritage, champions of our community, and architects of a future that is rooted in unity, integrity, and prosperity for all. The hour has come to heed the call, to rise above discord and division, and to steer Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Lagos towards a new dawn of purpose, vision, and strength.
Together, let us honor the legacy of our ancestors: Eziokwu, Akọ na uche, and uphold the dignity of our community, and strive for excellence in all endeavors. The time for change is now, and it begins with each and every one of us committing to the principles of integrity, leadership, and unity that will guide us towards a more prosperous and harmonious future.
Let us stand tall, shoulder to shoulder, as proud members of the Igbo community, and reclaim our rightful place at the forefront of progress and development in Lagos and beyond. The legacy of Ohanaeze Ndigbo is in our hands, and together, we can write a new chapter of strength, resilience, and success for our community.
As we navigate these turbulent waters, let us draw inspiration from our shared history, resilience, and determination to overcome adversity. Let us reject the allure of discord and embrace the values of unity, integrity, and leadership that will guide us towards a renewed sense of purpose and direction. The challenges before us are great, but so too is the potential for transformation and growth if we stand together in solidarity, determined to reclaim the essence and legacy of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Lagos.
With unity, determination, and a steadfast commitment to our values, we can overcome the challenges before us and build a future that honors our past, celebrates our present, and paves the way for a prosperous tomorrow. The clowns may have had their moment, but it is time for the true leaders of Ohanaeze Ndigbo to rise and lead our community towards a brighter and more promising future.
Together, let us reclaim our dignity, renew our purpose, and chart a course towards a future filled with unity, progress, and prosperity for all. Our journey begins now.
In Unity We Rise: Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s Call to Action
The legacy of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Lagos beckons us to a new chapter—one where integrity, unity, and leadership prevail over discord and self-interest. It is a call to action for all members of the Igbo community to rise, shoulder to shoulder, and reclaim the vision of our forebears. This is our time to turn the tide, to restore the organization’s dignity, and to ensure that our collective voice champions the advancement and empowerment of all Igbos.
Let this be the moment we unite to write a new narrative of strength, resilience, and success. Let us embrace the principles of Eziokwu, Akọ na uche, and commit to a future where the Igbo community stands tall, proud, and prosperous. The journey of transformation begins with us, and together, we will rise to the occasion, steering Ohanaeze Ndigbo towards a brighter, more promising future.
In conclusion, the path to reclaiming our legacy and restoring our integrity within Ohanaeze Ndigbo, both at the national level and its integral parts, demands a concerted effort guided by principles of unity, transparency, and service to the community. To embark on this transformative journey, we must first recognize the importance of realigning our values with the noble ideals set forth by the organization’s founding fathers and respected leaders of the past.
One crucial step towards reclaiming our legacy is to prioritize accountability and ethical leadership within Ohanaeze Ndigbo. By advocating for transparent governance structures, adherence to constitutional principles, and a commitment to the collective welfare of the Igbo community, we can rebuild trust and credibility in the organization. It is essential to foster a culture of integrity and responsibility among all members and leaders, ensuring that our actions are guided by a genuine dedication to the greater good.
Additionally, fostering unity and inclusivity within Ohanaeze is paramount to restoring our integrity and relevance. Embracing diversity of opinions and experiences, promoting dialogue and collaboration, and standing in solidarity as a cohesive community are essential components of revitalizing the organization. By bridging divides, fostering mutual respect, and emphasizing the shared heritage and values that unite us, we can overcome internal discord and fragmentation, strengthening our collective voice and impact.
Furthermore, it is imperative to engage in introspection and reflection as a community to address the root causes of discord and disillusionment within Ohanaeze. By identifying and rectifying systemic challenges, addressing grievances, and promoting a culture of accountability and transparency, we can pave the way for a renewed sense of purpose and direction within the organization. This introspective process requires courage, humility, and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths, but it is essential for laying the foundation for sustainable change and progress.
As we navigate the complexities and challenges ahead, let us draw inspiration from the resilience, unity, and strength that have defined the Igbo community for generations. By embracing a vision of leadership anchored in integrity, inclusivity, and service to others, we can reclaim our legacy, uphold our values, and guide Ohanaeze Ndigbo towards a future characterized by unity, purpose, and prosperity for all. The time for transformation is now, and together, we can chart a new course that honors our heritage, empowers our community, and reaffirms our commitment to excellence and solidarity.
Our journey begins now.
©️ Agbeze Ireke Kalu Onuma, AI-KO
March 16th 2024
Lagos
18th March, 2024.
C.E.
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