By Marietta Munachimso
In a detailed statement released to the press on January 10, 2025, prominent Igbo leaders of thought from Igbo-speaking states within Nigeria and the diaspora have decried what they termed the systematic marginalization and subversion of the indigenous Igbo in Rivers State in the selection of the next President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo. The leaders, including retired military generals, academics, and traditional rulers, have called for an end to what they described as an “ethnic-cleansing and dismemberment policy” targeting the Rivers Igbo, which they claim undermines their rights as integral members of the Igbo nation.
According to the statement, the Constitution of Ohanaeze Ndigbo provides for a rotational leadership system that moves alphabetically among Igbo-dominated states, including Rivers State. However, the leaders allege that external forces, in collaboration with complicit Igbo politicians, are working to deny Rivers State its rightful turn.
The leaders traced the roots of the marginalization to post-civil war policies such as the “Abandoned Property” program, which they argue was part of a broader agenda to weaken the Rivers Igbo. This program, they claimed, sought to “de-Igbonize” the indigenous Igbo of Rivers State, while simultaneously dispossessing migrant Igbo of their properties in the region. The statement further highlighted the historical significance of Rivers State as home to Igbo coastal ports, including Port Harcourt, Bonny, and Opobo, which they say were deliberately targeted in efforts to “landlock” the Igbo nation.
The leaders emphasized that the denial of Rivers State’s turn to produce the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo is part of the same pattern of systemic disenfranchisement. They warned that denying Rivers Igbo this opportunity risks further dividing the Igbo nation, undermining its unity and collective strength in Nigeria’s socio-political landscape.
The statement endorsed three candidates from Rivers State as eminently qualified for the position of Ohanaeze President-General. These include:
- Barrister Dimm Uche Okwukwu: A former Secretary-General of Ohanaeze and Deputy President-General under Chidi Ibe, Okwukwu is described as a steadfast advocate for Igbo unity and development.
- High Chief Dr. Omenazu Enyinnaya Jackson: Known for his extensive credentials in social justice, governance, and advocacy, Dr. Omenazu has been a committed voice for the Igbo cause both locally and internationally.
- Chief Fyneface Amaechi: With roots in Etche and Aro ancestry, Chief Amaechi is celebrated for his contributions to youth empowerment and cultural preservation.
The leaders urged a consensus among the three candidates, proposing an Ikwerre candidate as a unifying figure, with future rotations accommodating other Rivers Igbo groups like Etche.
The statement concluded with a passionate appeal for unity among the Igbo, warning against internal betrayals and external manipulations. “The Igbo nation must wake up from deep slumber,” it read, urging all stakeholders to support the Rivers Igbo in their quest for justice and equal representation.
The document was endorsed by notable figures from across the Igbo-speaking states and the diaspora, including Maj. Gen. Collins Remy Ugo Ihekire (rtd.), Brig. Gen. Chijioke K. Egwuagu (rtd.), Prof. Obasi Igwe, and several other distinguished leaders listed in this report, emphasizing the seriousness of the call for action.
Signatories:
- H.E. Maj. Gen. Collins Remy Ugo Ihekire (rtd.), OMC (Rwanda), JP
- Brig. Gen. Chijioke K. Egwuagu (rtd.)
- His Royal Highness, Chief Kingsley Dominic
- Chief Emmanuel Emeka
- Mr. Chigozie Onuoha
- Mr. Ugochukwu Kalu
- Dr. Joe Nworgu
- Prof. Obasi Igwe
- Lolo Louisa O. Okeke
- Prince Dr. Christian Dimkpa
- Chief Chinedu Peter Ochieze
- Dr. Gilbert MacLean Eze
- Prof. Chibuikeya Achokawa
- Mazi Ogbonnaya Obasi
- Chief Dr. Augustine Ikezue
- Dr O. Nworgu
As the debate over the Ohanaeze leadership continues, all eyes will be on the January 2025 election, which many believe will be a litmus test for the unity and future of the Igbo nation.
