The Concerned Igbo Elites Forum has strongly criticized the Chidi Ibeh-led faction of Ohanaeze Ndigbo for selecting Senator David Umahi, Minister of Works, as the 2024 Igbo Man of the Year.
The group labeled the nomination as “kangaroo” and unacceptable, accusing the faction of bias and favoritism.
In a statement issued by its Secretary, Dr. Kelvin Nwosu, the group expressed discontent with the decision, questioning how Umahi, despite his position as Minister of Works under President Bola Tinubu, could be chosen for the honor.
The forum pointed out that Umahi had made little progress in his role, failing to address the dire state of federal roads across Nigeria, as highlighted by the House of Representatives’ committee on Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), which criticized him for the poor condition of roads under his watch.
The Concerned Igbo Elites Forum also raised concerns about the exclusion of other notable figures, such as Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu.
They emphasized Kalu’s remarkable achievements, particularly his significant contributions to infrastructural development and his proactive role in supporting President Tinubu’s governance agenda.
The group expressed their opposition to what they described as a “fraudulent” nomination and urged other Igbo organizations and the broader Igbo community to reject the decision.
They called on the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo to stop promoting “ghost achievements” and put an end to what they viewed as a politically motivated selection.
