The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo is on the verge of a potential factionalization following the election of Dr. Jackson Omenazu as the new ‘President-General’ of the body.
He emerged unopposed to mark a historic moment for the Igbo of Rivers State, as it is the first time since the end of the Biafra war 55 years ago that an indigenous Igbo from the region has been appointed to this leadership position.
In a statement signed by Dr. Richard Ozobu-led Ohanaeze Ndigbo 2025 Election Committee, alongside the Secretary of the Committee, Prof. Chibuikeya Achokawa, they confirmed the election of the new National Executive Council (NEC).
Omenazu, from Rivers State, was appointed alongside other key figures including Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, who became the Deputy President-General, and several others who also emerged unopposed.
Omenazu, in his acceptance speech, highlighted the significance of his victory as a reversal of long-standing historical injustices faced by the Igbo of Rivers State.
He also emphasized a break from political manipulation, with a vow to safeguard Ohanaeze Ndigbo from being used as a tool by political elites for narrow personal gains.
He stated, “It is a historical event as all injustices meted against the indigenous Igbo of Rivers State have been reversed.
“The selection of an indigenous Igbo from Rivers State as President General is not merely a token representation. It is a bold declaration that we have reclaimed our identity and rectified the historical injustices that have plagued us for generations.
“The era of using our revered organization as a pawn in the political chess game is over.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo is reaffirmed as the apex socio-cultural organization representing the entirety of the Igbo people, our focus shall pivot decisively toward issues that directly benefit our communities and enhance our collective progress.”
“While we welcome collaboration with our governors as Imeobi members, we will not become subservient to their interests.
“Our immediate agenda, as the newly elected executive council, features a multi-faceted approach aimed at addressing the critical issues plaguing the Southeast. Chief among these is the urgent need to tackle insecurity—this will require concerted efforts alongside our friends and allies.
“We firmly stand for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, whose plight has become emblematic of our quest for justice and self-determination.
“We urge the government to recognize the importance of incorporating ethnicity and religion in the forthcoming 2025 census. Such representations are essential to rectifying historical misrepresentations and ensuring that our voices are heard in the administrative frameworks that govern our lives.”
Despite the optimism surrounding his leadership, a potential crisis looms, as another election committee led by Chief Ejiofor Onyia is scheduled to conduct another election on January 10, 2025.
