Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the leading organization advocating for the interests of Ndigbo globally, has officially established its National Elections Committee, which will oversee the leadership transition from Imo State to Rivers State by January 2025.
This decision comes in the wake of a productive meeting held by the Ohanaeze Elders Council and the Concerned Statutory Imeobi Members in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, from the evening of December 17 to the afternoon of December 18, 2024.
According to Articles 10 and 11 of the 2004 Ohanaeze Constitution, the electoral process will be managed by a newly appointed 11-member committee, comprised of esteemed professionals and leaders from within the Igbo community.
Leading this committee is the highly regarded Prince Dr. Richard Ozobu, a Chartered Accountant trained in the USA and a member of the Imeobi Ohanaeze Ndigbo since 2000. “His leadership skills and extensive background in financial governance make him the perfect choice to ensure a transparent, credible, and fair election process,” stated Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Secretary General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.
The committee includes notable members such as:
Professor Chibuikeya Achoakawa, Professor Achi Achi, Prince Dr. Christian Dimkpa, Dr. (Mrs.) Onyekpe Cheryl Ndidi, Barrister Uka Onwuka Okocha, Reverend Fineman Luke Ngwakwe, Mazi Obinna Okehie Collins
These committee members are charged with ensuring that the leadership selection process reflects the core values and aspirations of Ndigbo, facilitating a seamless and accountable transition to new leadership.
Mazi Isiguzoro highlighted the significance of this initiative in cultivating a dynamic and effective leadership that genuinely represents the Igbo people. “The successful assembly of the Ohanaeze Elders and Imeobi provides a solid foundation for the new electoral team to build upon,” he remarked.
“Our trust in this committee stems from their ability to maintain independence, uphold our collective aspirations, and guarantee that the upcoming elections are free from external political influences.”
Ohanaeze Ndigbo urged all Igbo governors to honor the organization’s original mandate as a socio-cultural entity, distinct from political agendas. “It is vital to protect the integrity of our constitution and legacy against political interference, especially as certain individuals attempt to manipulate the organization for their personal goals ahead of the 2027 elections,” they stated.
“We call on all political actors to respect the autonomy and dignity of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, ensuring that leadership selection remains a democratic process, free from outside meddling.
“As we embark on this transformative journey, we invite all Ndigbo to unite in support of Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s mission and the new leadership process. Your involvement, support, and participation are essential for ensuring that the legacy of Ohanaeze Ndigbo continues to flourish, serving as a guiding light for progress and hope for Ndigbo around the world,” Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro concluded.
