Agitation for Ohanaeze P.G of Rivers Extraction or Shadow Boxing of Self-Inflicted Complex

By Chief Norbert Ofordile 

In the annals of any cultural or political organization, the principles of leadership and the wisdom drawn from history play crucial roles in shaping its trajectory. This is particularly evident in the current discourse around the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the Apex Socio-Cultural organization representing the Igbo Nation. 

As we observe individuals unfit for the position of President General attempting to ascend through blackmail, harassment, and misleading narratives, we must reflect on the broader implications of neglecting the lessons of our past.

The phrase, “Those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it,” resonates deeply, especially concerning Ohanaeze leadership. 

This organization has faced numerous crises, often stemming from poor leadership choices. 

When visionary leaders are overlooked in favor of individuals resorting to underhanded tactics, we not only jeopardize the integrity of the organization but also perpetuate a cycle of past mistakes.

A significant point of reference is the administration of Chief John Nnia Nwodo as the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide. 

It truly takes someone of Chief Nnia Nwodo’s caliber to navigate the complexities and challenges posed by his Secretaries General. 

I hope our esteemed P.G Emeritus will one day share insights from his experiences with the former Secretary General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Dim Uche Okwukwu, whose suspension stemmed from serious misconduct against the NEC, Ime-Obi, and the General Assembly.

We still vividly recall the events leading to his suspension, which remains in effect, and all his actions during this period. 

His intrusion into the Ohanaeze National Secretariat during a NEC meeting with more than thirty heavily armed  security personnel, was not only disruptive but desecrating of our temple of honor (Ohanaeze National Secretariat) 

Recently, he claimed the role of Deputy President General of a self-proclaimed faction of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, a position he continues to maintain, alongside Okechukwu Isiguzoro as their Secretary General. 

What we see today is nothing short of shadow boxing fueled by self-inflicted complexities, and I kept asking which Ohanaeze is Dim Uche Okwukwu aspiring to be the President General, certainly not Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide with Headquarters at number 7 Park Avenue GRA Enugu.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo is recognized as the only Apex Socio-Cultural organization representing the interests, culture, and heritage of the Igbo people. Established to promote unity among the Igbo, Ohanaeze focuses on advocating for their rights and development, while fostering a sense of identity and pride within the community. 

It’s important to note that Ohanaeze Ndigbo is not synonymous with any Biafran groups or movements. While some of these groups may share similar cultural backgrounds and historical concerns, Ohanaeze has its specific mission and objectives that center on cultural promotion and societal welfare rather than political separatism. 

This distinction is crucial in understanding the role Ohanaeze plays within the larger context of Igbo identity and the aspirations of the Igbo people.

Being the PG of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide is a serious duty that comes with immense responsibilities, not merely rhetoric. 

The individual who assumes this role becomes the leader of over 60 million Igbo people in Nigeria and the diaspora, effectively becoming the first citizen of the Igbo Nation.

During the period when it was Enugu State’s turn to produce the President General, contestants such as late Prof. Ejike Chiweite (Aguoworu) and H.E Admiral Alison Madueke contended alongside Chief John Nnia Nwodo.

 Although Chief Nnia Nwodo received the endorsement of Enugu State elders and stakeholders, his competitors also  exercise their right to compete because of their commendable qualifications. Ultimately, Chief Nnia Nwodo emerged victorious in the election.

Similarly, in Imo State, Amb. George Obiozor (of blessed memory) contended against distinguished individuals like Dr. Joe Nwaogu and Barr. Goddy Uwazulike, all of whom had impeccable track records that spoke volumes about their integrity.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has in no way denied Rivers State the opportunity to produce the next President General. Instead, mischief-makers have sown discord through unfounded allegations against the organization.

This situation should never be trivialized or turned into a mere jest, akin to discussions held in a social club. 

It requires consensus-building among all the Governors of the Southeast, Delta, and Rivers States, as well as elders, stakeholders, clergy, leadership of town unions, traditional rulers, and other structures within Ohanaeze. It is not a one-man show; it is not about an individual parading their ambitions to become the next PG or declaring themselves as such.

Members of the NEC of Ohanaeze are elected, not appointed. It is the General Assembly of Ohanaeze that bears this responsibility, and it cannot be otherwise attained through threats or intimidation.

 Ohanaeze operates under a leadership organogram, which many engaged on social media appear either unaware of or indifferent to.

In recent times, there has been an alarming trend where individuals lacking the requisite experience and insight for the Ohanaeze presidency resort to tactics that undermine the democratic process. 

These candidates often employ blackmail and misinformation as tools to obscure their incompetence. They seek to create a facade of strength while simultaneously attacking those who question their legitimacy.

Such manipulative tactics erode the trust essential to any leadership structure. Within Ohanaeze, these unethical practices undermine the organization’s core values, transforming what should be a collaborative effort into a battleground of contention. 

Those who distort information or threaten dissent do so not merely against their rivals but against the very ideals of leadership—accountability, transparency, and collective benefit.

The stakes are high for Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide. It is imperative for members and stakeholders to engage thoughtfully in the leadership selection process, ensuring that the selected candidates will honor the legacy of their predecessors and guide the Igbo community toward a more cohesive and prosperous future. By learning from history and collectively advocating for high leadership standards, Ohanaeze can break the cycle of uncertainty and inspire renewed commitment to the ideals that define the Igbo identity.

Chief Norbert Ofordile , is the 

Convener Odimma Ala-Igbo.