The Rivers State chapter of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, under the organization Ogbakor Ndi-Igbo Na Rivers, has formally expressed its intention to produce the next President-General of the group following the death of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.
The chapter’s demand is grounded in the rotational leadership structure outlined in Article 11 of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Constitution, which mandates that leadership positions be rotated among the seven member states.
In a communiqué released after a stakeholders’ meeting held in Port Harcourt, the group reaffirmed Rivers State’s rightful place in Ohanaeze Ndigbo and emphasized its long-standing support for other states in producing national officers.
The statement was signed by Livingstone Wechie, Convener of Ogbakor Ndi-Igbo Na Rivers, and Barrister Anthony Okolo, National Coordinator of Anyi-Anyi, a pan-Igbo advocacy group.
“We strongly believe that adherence to the Constitution is the key to ensuring a peaceful, prosperous, and united Ohanaeze Ndigbo,” Wechie said.
“We urge all stakeholders to support this principle. May God guide us all.”
The push for a Rivers State candidate comes in the wake of the passing of Chief Iwuanyanwu, the 11th President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, which has created a leadership gap.
The Rivers State chapter contends that having a candidate from the state would provide continuity and inclusivity for the organization moving forward.
Wechie also noted that Rivers State has made significant contributions to Ohanaeze Ndigbo, having held crucial positions such as Deputy Secretary-General, National Financial Secretary, Secretary-General, and Deputy President-General.
He highlighted these contributions as evidence of Rivers State’s experience and commitment to the organization’s goals.
“Rivers State has proven its dedication to the growth of Ohanaeze, and we believe it is time for us to lead,” Wechie added.
The group is calling for a transparent and fair election to elect the next President-General, which is scheduled to take place on January 10, 2025.
They emphasized that maintaining unity and proper representation for all Igbos is vital for the future of the organization.
In a related development, Anyi-Anyi, led by Barrister Anthony Okolo, has proposed a symposium to facilitate discussions on the leadership transition within Ohanaeze Ndigbo.
Okolo underscored the importance of Rivers State’s claim to the presidency, warning that ignoring this claim would undermine the Igbo identity in the state.
The symposium, scheduled for December 7, 2024, aims to strengthen Rivers State’s position and unite stakeholders within the Igbos.
Okolo also called for town-hall meetings and strategic consultations to ensure widespread support for Rivers State’s bid.
Additionally, he urged the Rivers State Police Command to maintain security during the event.
“This program will culminate in a communiqué asserting Rivers State’s right to produce the next President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo,” Okolo stated.
