KEY POINTS
- Ohanaeze debunks leadership crisis, denies Obasanjo interference claims.
- Rivers State rotation confirmed for President General role.
- Group apologizes to Obasanjo, reaffirms Igbo solidarity.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the foremost socio-cultural group representing the Igbo people, has vigorously rejected recent accusations suggesting that former President Olusegun Obasanjo is interfering in its leadership transition.
The group denounced the allegations as baseless and divisive, reaffirming its commitment to power rotation and confirming that the next national president will likely come from Rivers State.
Debunking leadership crisis allegations
As the organization prepares for its leadership election next month, the debate has intensified over the potential selection of a new President General. Despite the tradition of rotating the leadership among the regions, rumors have surfaced claiming that plans may be in place to bypass Rivers in favor of another state.
These speculations, which have not been formally addressed by the leadership, have ignited controversy within the Igbo community.
In response, Ohanaeze categorically denied any leadership crisis, attributing the unfounded rumors to “crisis advocates” aiming to sow division. The organization also debunked reports of a secret meeting between Obasanjo and Ohanaeze leaders to discuss the transition, labeling these claims as entirely fabricated.
Reaffirming organizational unity and leadership integrity
According to Vanguard, the organization reiterated its support for Ambassador Okey Emuchay, Ohanaeze’s Secretary-General, emphasizing his leadership in managing organizational affairs.
The National Executive Committee (NEC) is expected to convene soon to address crucial matters, and Ohanaeze urged the public to disregard any statements not officially endorsed by Emuchay. In addition, the group took the opportunity to reaffirm Obasanjo’s longstanding support for the Igbo community.
Highlighting his efforts to combat Igbophobia and his inclusion of key Igbo figures in his administration, Ohanaeze offered a formal apology to Obasanjo on behalf of the Igbo nation for the recent, unsubstantiated allegations, underscoring his role as a staunch ally of the Igbo cause.
