Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex body representing Ndigbo worldwide, has announced the establishment of its National Elections Committee, tasked with overseeing the transition of leadership from Imo State to Rivers State by January 2025.
The move follows a strategic and constructive meeting of the Ohanaeze Elders Council and the Concerned Statutory Imeobi Members, which took place in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, from the evening of December 17 to the afternoon of December 18, 2024.
As outlined in Articles 10 and 11 of the 2004 Ohanaeze Constitution, the electoral process will be guided by a newly formed 11-member committee, composed of distinguished professionals and leaders from within the Igbo community.
The committee will be headed by the esteemed Prince Dr. Richard Ozobu, an accomplished USA-trained Chartered Accountant, and a member of the Imeobi Ohanaeze Ndigbo since 2000.
His leadership expertise, combined with his extensive experience in financial governance, positions him as the ideal individual to oversee the election process with transparency, credibility, and equity,” Ohanaeze Ndigbo Secretary General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, said in a statement.
Other members of the committee include:
- Professor Chibuikeya Achoakawa
- Professor Achi Achi
- Prince Dr. Christian Dimkpa
- Dr. (Mrs) Onyekpe Cheryl Ndidi
- Barrister Uka Onwuka Okocha
- Reverend Fineman Luke Ngwakwe
- Mazi Obinna Okehie Collins
- Barrister Sylvester Nwogu
- Hon. Ochieze Chinedu Peter
- Dr. Ndukwe Kalu Egwu
The committee members are mandated to ensure that the leadership selection process embodies the values and aspirations of Ndigbo, ensuring a smooth and accountable transition to the new leadership.
Mazi Isiguzoro emphasized the importance of this step in shaping a vibrant and effective new leadership that will genuinely represent the interests of Ndigbo.
His words: “The successful conclave of the Ohanaeze Elders and Imeobi serves as the bedrock upon which we expect the new electoral team to build.
“Our confidence in this committee is rooted in their ability to remain independent, uphold our collective Igbo aspirations, and ensure that the upcoming elections are free from undue political influence.”
Ohanaeze Ndigbo called upon all Igbo governors to honour the original mandate of Ohanaeze as a socio-cultural organization, distinct from political manoeuvring.
“It is critical that we safeguard the integrity of our constitution and legacy from political subversion, particularly as some figures have sought to co-opt the organization for their agendas ahead of the 2027 elections.
“We urge all political actors to respect the independence and dignity of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, ensuring that leadership selection remains in the hands of the people, free from external interference.
“As we move forward in this transformative period, we invite all Ndigbo to unite in support of Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s mission and the new leadership process.
“Your engagement, support, and participation are crucial as we work together to ensure that the legacy of Ohanaeze Ndigbo continues to thrive, serving as a beacon of hope and progress for Ndigbo everywhere,” Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro added.
