From: The Forum for the Advancement of Igbo Race (FAIR)
Upholding The Unity Of Ndigbo In The UK: A Call For Neutrality And Integrity
To: The President and Members of the Imo State Union, UK
Expression of Grave Concern Regarding the Proposed Selection Process for Ohanaeze Ndigbo UK Presidency
The Forum for the Advancement of Igbo Race (FAIR) has followed, with serious concern, the recent developments surrounding the Notice of Expression of Interest issued by the Imo State Union of Elders UK concerning the presidency of Ohanaeze Ndigbo UK. While we acknowledge the stated intention to promote transparency and fairness, we must register, unequivocally, our deep reservations regarding the process, timing, and implications of this action.
A Time For Restraint: Egbe Bere, Ugo Bere
This is not a time to deepen existing divisions within Ohanaeze Ndigbo UK. Instead, it is a time for unity, wisdom, and egbe bere, ugo bere, the core Igbo value of mutual respect and peaceful coexistence. The current situation within Ohanaeze UK is fragile. As everyone knows, but too many pretend not to, there are two parallel factions: one led by a woman and another by a man. This schism, regrettable as it is, reflects a deeper misunderstanding of Igbo traditional leadership and cultural anthropology.
It is the duty of Imo State Union to remain neutral and to be seen to be neutral. Taking sides, whether by action or association, in a contested process risks besmirching the hard-won credibility of the Union. To proceed with a selection process under the leadership of one faction, without reconciliation, harmonisation, or agreement, is to pour oil on an already raging fire.
The Dangers Of Partiality: A Warning To The Wise
Let us be clear: the Forum for the Advancement of Igbo Race (FAIR) is not opposed to Imo sons contesting or leading Ohanaeze. Rather, we oppose the process which is being hurriedly set in motion, without clarity, unity, or constitutional footing. Some have rightly asked: Which Ohanaeze is organising this election, the ‘Woman-led Ohanaeze’ or the ‘man-led Ohanaeze’?
If the Imo State Union aligns with one, to the exclusion of the other, it forfeits its moral authority. If the Union proceeds to validate what is, in essence, a factional contest, it shoulders the burden of deepening the fragmentation of Ohanaeze UK. In such a case, history will remember Imo State Union not as a reconciler, but as an enabler of crisis.
Proposed Path To Unity: A Reasonable Way Forward
We in FAIR offer a simple, culturally sound, and politically wise proposal:
Step One: The ‘Woman-led Ohanaeze’ should appoint interim leadership whose sole purpose is to engage in reconciliation with the already existing ‘Man-led Ohanaeze’.
Step Two: These interim leaders should negotiate a working agreement, leading to the formation of a joint electoral committee.
Step Three: The committee will then organise a single, inclusive, constitutionally valid election that restores the dignity of the organisation.
This process will not only appease chi Ndigbo but will align with our traditions of collective consultation, dialogue and consensus.
No Sanctioned Election In November Without Unity First
We categorically state: there must be no sanctioned Ohanaeze Ndigbo UK election in November 2025 without the prior reconciliation of factions. Any such election will be inherently divisive, contested, and null in the eyes of the broader Igbo community.
If Imo State Union lends its name or weight to such an effort, it risks being seen as partisan, divisive, and politically compromised. It will become complicit in perpetuating a structure that the majority of Igbos in the UK view as constitutionally and culturally improper.
The Sacred Responsibility
Imo has always stood for justice, equity, and the preservation of Igbo identity. It must not now walk a path that tarnishes that legacy. We call upon the leadership of Imo State Union UK to pause, reflect, and realign its actions with the wider interest of Ndigbo.
This is not a time to rush into selection. It is a time for wise elders to gather, cleanse the era, reconcile the factions, and chart a path to a unified Ohanaeze Ndigbo UK. Let not ambition lead us into further trouble. Let the gods of our ancestors not be provoked by disregard for due process and cultural harmony.
May wisdom guide all our actions.
Long live the unity of Ndigbo!
Long live Imo State!
Long live Ohanaeze Ndigbo UK!
In service,
The Forum for the Advancement of Igbo Race (FAIR)
