The forthcoming Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide election, scheduled for 10 January 2025, stands at a pivotal juncture that could either fortify or fracture the unity of Ndigbo. Central to this is the adherence to Article 11 of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide’s constitution.
This mandates the rotation of the President-General’s office among Igbo-speaking states in a specified alphabetical order: Abia, Anambra, Delta (Anioma), Ebonyi, Enugu, Imo and Rivers. Following this sequence, it is unequivocally Rivers State’s turn to produce the next President-General.
Recent developments, however, have sparked concern. The endorsement of former Inspector General of Police, Mike Okiro, by the Rivers State chapter of Ohanaeze Ndigbo has been met with contention. Critics argue that Okiro hails from Imo State, not Rivers, thereby contravening the constitutional provision.
The Alaigbo Development Foundation (ADF) has cautioned against such an imposition, emphasising the necessity for the President-General to be an indigene of Rivers State, as stipulated by the rotational arrangement.
The integrity of Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s leadership selection process is paramount. Allowing candidates from states outside the designated rotation not only violates the Constitution but also risks eroding trust within Ohanaeze. Such actions could precipitate divisions, undermining the collective strength of Ndigbo.
It is imperative that the electoral process remains transparent and faithful to the established rotational order. Ensuring that only bona fide indigenes of Rivers State are presented for voting will uphold the constitution and preserve the unity of Ohanaeze Ndigbo. Deviation from this path may lead to internal discord, potentially giving rise to splinter groups and weakening Ohanaeze’s influence.
Ndigbo’s resilience and unity have been their strength. Upholding the Constitutional provisions of Ohanaeze Ndigbo is not merely a matter of legal obligation but a testament to the respect for the collective will and cultural heritage of the Igbo people. Let us proceed with integrity, ensuring that the leadership reflects the true spirit and letter of the Constitution.
In conclusion, as the election approaches, all stakeholders must commit to a process that is just, transparent, and in strict adherence to the Constitutional provisions. This will safeguard the unity of Ndigbo and ensure that Ohanaeze Ndigbo continues to serve as a beacon of Igbo solidarity and progress.
