The apex Igbo social-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has justified the emergence of elder statesman, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu to succeed Professor George Obizor as president general of the Igbo body.
The spokesman of Ohanaeze, Dr. Alex Ogbonnia explained that the body’s leadership applied the doctrine of necessity in selecting Iwuanyanwu.
He further disclosed that Iwuanyanwu will be presented to the highest decision making organ of Ohanaeze, Imeobi next Sunday.
Ogbonnia, who disclosed this in an exclusive interview with our correspondent in Enugu, urged those criticising the emergence of the elder statesman to allow peace to reign in Igboland.
He noted that Igbo elders met in Owerri and after their deliberations, resolved to select Iwuanyanwu as the successor to Professor George Obizor who had joined his ancestors.
Ogbonnia, however, stated that it is only when the majority of Imeobi members fail to endorse Iwuanyanwu that an election will be conducted.
He insisted that the former presidential candidate remains the best person to replace the late Obizor.
He stated that Igbos needed an Ohanaeze president that will be respected by the governors within their jurisdiction, adding Iwuanyanwu is in the presidential category and will be respected by all.
“He will be presented to Imeobi on Sunday for endorsement, doctrine of necessity was applied, those who are kicking against have not met anywhere to talk about alternative, we need peace in Igboland,” he stated.
He further noted that Iwuanyanwu has the clout and financial Weight to hold the position, adding they wanted somebody who has made it in life to occupy the position.