Ohanaeze Crisis Deepens As New Leadership Emerges Amid Tension

The Prince Dr. Richard Ozobu-led Ohanaeze Ndigbo 2025 Election Committee has announced new members of the National Executive Council (NEC) of the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation.

This was disclosed in a statement released on Monday by Dr Ozobu and the committee’s secretary, Prof. Chibuikeya Achokawa.

According to the statement, Dr. Jackson Omenazu from Rivers State emerged as the president general, while Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro from Abia State was named deputy president general.

Other members of the new leadership include Engr. Abbas Chinedu as secretary general, Chief Chinenyeze Thompson Ohia as national PRO/Spokesman, Ambassador Kingsley C. Ekwenye as national vice president general (Anambra), Chief Dr. Alexander Chikalue Okemiri as national vice president general (Ebonyi), Barr. Sylvester Nwogu as national vice president general (Imo), and Prof. Iheanacho Agboti as national legal adviser.

In his acceptance speech, Omenazu emphasized the historical significance of his election as the first President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo from Rivers State since the end of the Biafra war.

He described his emergence as a restoration of identity and justice for the indigenous Igbo people of Rivers State, noting that it marked the end of a prolonged identity crisis.

“This is a historic moment for our people. It signifies the reclamation of our identity and the reversal of injustices that have lingered for decades. Our selection is a testament to our unwavering commitment to our heritage and aspirations,” Omenazu declared.

Omenazu also vowed to prevent the organisation from being influenced by political interests, stressing that Ohanaeze Ndigbo would focus on advancing the collective interests of the Igbo people.

He added that the organisation would be funded through contributions from Igbo sons and daughters worldwide, ensuring its independence.

The new leadership outlined several priorities, including addressing insecurity in the Southeast, advocating for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, and pushing for the inclusion of ethnicity and religion in the 2025 census to ensure fair representation.

Omenazu also called for the demilitarisation of the Southeast, emphasising the need to create an environment of peace and safety.

He further highlighted the importance of restructuring Nigeria to reflect the aspirations of all ethnic groups, urging a review of the 1999 Constitution. Economic development was also a key focus, with plans to establish the AKU RUO ULO Industrial Business Hub to boost entrepreneurship and investment in Igboland.

Omenazu extended a call to the federal government to prioritize the dredging of Calabar Seaport, the development of the Azumiri Deep Blue Sea Port, and the reconstruction of critical railway infrastructure to enhance connectivity and economic growth in the region.

As the new leadership sets its agenda, internal divisions remain a concern.

Another election committee, led by Chief Ejiofor Onyia, is scheduled to hold a separate election on January 10, 2025.

This development could deepen the factionalisation that has affected Ohanaeze Ndigbo in recent years.

Onyia noted that amid these challenges, many are hopeful that the new leadership will focus on unity and steer the organisation toward effectively representing the interests of the Igbo people.