Ohanaeze Ndigbo Leadership: Rivers State Demands Turn To Produce Next President-General

The Rivers State chapter of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, operating under the aegis of Ogbakor Ndi-Igbo Na Rivers, has declared its intention to produce the next President-General of the organization following the demise of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.

In a communiqué issued after a stakeholders’ meeting in Port Harcourt, the group emphasized that its demand aligns with Article 11 of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Constitution, which mandates rotational leadership among the seven member states.

The statement, signed by Livingstone Wechie, Convener of Ogbakor Ndi-Igbo Na Rivers, and Barrister Anthony Okolo, National Coordinator of Anyi-Anyi, reaffirmed Rivers State’s statutory membership and its history of supporting other states in producing national officers.

Wechie stated, “We strongly believe that strict adherence to the Constitution will ensure a harmonious, peaceful, and prosperous Ohanaeze, both now and in the future.

“We appeal to all stakeholders to uphold this principle. May God help us all.”

The group argued that leadership from Rivers State would ensure inclusivity, continuity, and equity within the organization, particularly when the group is mourning the passing of Chief Iwuanyanwu, the 11th President-General.

Highlighting Rivers State’s contributions to Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Wechie noted the state’s history of holding key positions such as Deputy Secretary-General, National Financial Secretary, Secretary-General, and Deputy President-General.

“Rivers State’s experience and dedication to the organization make it an ideal candidate to produce the next President-General,” Wechie said.

The group called for a free, fair, and transparent election, scheduled for January 10, 2025, emphasizing the importance of unity and fair representation for all Igbos.

“As stakeholders in Ohanaeze Ndigbo, we are committed to ensuring a leadership structure that reflects the principles of justice and fairness for the progress of all Igbos,” the communiqué concluded.