Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the foremost organization representing the Igbo people globally, has announced the formation of its National Elections Committee, tasked with managing the transition of leadership from Imo State to Rivers State by January 2025.
The decision follows a productive and strategic meeting of the Ohanaeze Elders Council and Concerned Statutory Imeobi Members, which was held in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, from the evening of December 17 to the afternoon of December 18, 2024.
In accordance with Articles 10 and 11 of the 2004 Ohanaeze Constitution, the election process will be overseen by an 11-member committee composed of respected professionals and community leaders from the Igbo ethnic group.
The committee will be led by Prince Dr. Richard Ozobu, a distinguished USA-trained Chartered Accountant and a longstanding member of the Imeobi Ohanaeze Ndigbo since 2000. According to Ohanaeze Ndigbo Secretary General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Dr. Ozobu’s leadership expertise, coupled with his extensive background in financial governance, makes him exceptionally suited to lead the election process with transparency, fairness, and credibility.
Other notable members of the newly established 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’s primary mandate is to ensure that the leadership selection process reflects the values, traditions, and aspirations of the Igbo people. The group will work towards a seamless, accountable, and well-managed transition to new leadership.
Mazi Isiguzoro underscored the significance of this milestone, stating that the formation of the committee marks a pivotal step in shaping a new, vibrant leadership that will authentically represent the collective interests of Ndigbo. He remarked, “The successful conclusion of the Ohanaeze Elders and Imeobi conclave is the foundation upon which we expect the new electoral committee to build. Our confidence in them is grounded in their ability to stay independent, uphold the collective Igbo aspirations, and ensure that the upcoming elections are free of undue political influence.”
Furthermore, Ohanaeze Ndigbo has urged all Igbo governors to respect the organization’s original mandate as a socio-cultural body, distinct from political agendas. The group warned against any political manipulation, particularly as some individuals may seek to use the organization for their personal ambitions ahead of the 2027 elections.
“It is critical that we protect the integrity of our constitution and legacy from political subversion. We call on all political actors to respect the independence and dignity of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, ensuring that the leadership selection process remains firmly in the hands of the people, free from external interference,” Mazi Isiguzoro added.
As the organization moves into this transformative phase, Ohanaeze Ndigbo invites all Igbo people to unite in support of the leadership transition and the organization’s broader mission. “Your engagement, support, and participation are essential as we work together to safeguard the legacy of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, which continues to serve as a symbol of hope and progress for Ndigbo across the globe,” concluded Mazi Isiguzoro.
