In a dramatic display of support for Uche Okwukwu, the newly elected President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has come out strongly against Southeast governors and the leadership of the Ohanaeze Ime-obi, accusing them of attempting to subvert the people’s will for selfish political reasons.
The conflict between IPOB and Southeast governors over the choice of the Ohanaeze President-General has escalated, with IPOB warning that any attempts to undermine the election of Okwukwu would not go unchallenged. Okwukwu’s selection by a faction of the sociocultural group had initially appeared to mark a new chapter for the Igbo people, but recent developments suggest that powerful political figures may be working against his mandate.
In a statement released on Saturday, IPOB spokesman Emma Powerful expressed strong approval of Okwukwu’s election while condemning the actions of Southeast governors, specifically Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, who IPOB claims is leading efforts to reject the will of the people.
“We hail the election of Barrister Uche Okwukwu as President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo,” Powerful said. “However, we are deeply concerned by reports that certain political elements, particularly the Southeast governors, are engaged in a conspiracy to frustrate his leadership and undermine the clear choice of the people.”
The Battle for Ohanaeze Leadership
Okwukwu’s emergence as President-General of Ohanaeze has been a contentious issue, with several factions within the organization disputing the legitimacy of the election. However, his supporters argue that his selection is a victory for the Igbo people, particularly those in Rivers State, who have rallied behind him.
For years, Ohanaeze Ndigbo has been a central figure in representing the interests of the Igbo people, and the role of its President-General is seen as critical in shaping Igbo political and cultural influence in Nigeria. As the head of the organization, Okwukwu’s influence will extend far beyond the borders of Igboland, potentially impacting national politics.
But the leadership of Ohanaeze, particularly its Ime-obi (an advisory body), is embroiled in a bitter internal dispute, with some members of the group aligning with political figures rather than following the will of the grassroots.
IPOB has consistently opposed what it calls the “political hijacking” of Ohanaeze, accusing some governors of undermining the organization’s independence to further their own interests. Powerful further criticized the political establishment for allegedly creating an environment of insecurity and instability in the South-East.
IPOB’s Strong Warning to Governors
The IPOB spokesman did not mince words in his statement, delivering a fierce rebuke to Southeast governors who have reportedly opposed Okwukwu’s election. He particularly called out Governor Hope Uzodinma, whom he accuses of attempting to impose a different leader on the organization to protect his political interests.
“If these governors, led by Hope Uzodinma, openly reject the popular choice of the people, then the chaos they have long sought to instigate will be realized,” Powerful warned. “The people have spoken, and their voice cannot be ignored. If the governors persist in their efforts to sabotage the will of the people, IPOB will align with religious leaders and use all our might to ensure that these politicians never hold office again.”
Powerful’s statement reflects IPOB’s growing frustration with the political establishment in the Southeast. The group has long been critical of what it sees as a betrayal of the Igbo people by political leaders who prioritize personal gain over the welfare of the region.
“The governors have crossed the line,” he continued. “Their actions show utter disdain for the wishes of the majority of Igbos worldwide. If they continue down this path, they will face consequences not just from IPOB, but from the people who they have failed.”
The Role of Ohanaeze in Igbo Politics
Ohanaeze Ndigbo has been a pivotal institution for the Igbo people, acting as both a cultural body and a political voice. Its leadership carries significant weight in determining the direction of Igbo interests in Nigeria. However, the leadership of the organization has often been fraught with tension, especially when political figures become involved.
The latest leadership tussle comes at a time when the Igbo community is grappling with complex political dynamics. Insecurity in the region, particularly in states like Imo and Anambra, has further complicated the already volatile political landscape. Some critics believe that the political elite, including the governors, have exacerbated the crisis for their own gain, while IPOB and other civil society groups push for a leadership that genuinely represents the people’s aspirations.
A Call for Unity Amidst Division
Despite the ongoing political intrigue, IPOB’s statement also called for unity among the Igbo people. While expressing their disappointment with the political leadership in the Southeast, IPOB leaders emphasized the need for collective action in shaping a brighter future for the Igbo nation.
“The Igbo nation has a choice,” said Powerful. “It is either we continue to be divided by selfish politicians or we unite under the leadership that represents our collective will. The election of Barr. Uche Okwukwu is a step in the right direction, but it is up to all of us to support him and ensure that his leadership is not hijacked by external interests.”
For Okwukwu, the road ahead appears fraught with challenges. However, with the support of IPOB and grassroots organizations, he may be able to carve a path toward unifying the Igbo people and steering the organization away from the clutches of political manipulation.
The latest developments highlight the growing tension between the people and the political class in the Southeast. As IPOB makes its position clear, the stage is set for a potentially explosive battle over the future of Ohanaeze Ndigbo and the direction of Igbo political influence in Nigeria.
