Enugu, December 14, 2024 — The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has refuted claims made by Chief Jackson Omenazu regarding the recently held Imeobi/General Assembly meeting at the Ohanaeze National Secretariat, Enugu.
In a statement issued by Dr. Chiedozie Alex Ogbonnia, National Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the organization dismissed Omenazu’s allegations, which suggested procedural irregularities and constitutional violations during the deliberations.
Key Allegations by Omenazu
Chief Omenazu, in his online critique, claimed the meeting:
1.Failed to meet the required quorum as stipulated in the Ohanaeze constitution.
2.Violated constitutional provisions by not allowing Dr. Kingsley Dozie, the acting President-General from Abia State, to preside over the meeting in the absence of the President-General and Deputy President-General.
He further alleged that Imo State harbored a “hidden agenda” to manipulate Ohanaeze processes unconstitutionally. Omenazu also reiterated his longstanding ambition to replace the late Deputy President-General, Chief Joel Kroham, who passed away in 2022, claiming Ndigbo in Rivers State are deeply concerned about the developments.
Ohanaeze’s Response
Ohanaeze Ndigbo described Omenazu’s assertions as “misguided and misleading.” The organization clarified the purpose and outcomes of the Imeobi/General Assembly, emphasizing its constitutional adherence.
Purpose of the Meeting
The meeting, convened on December 14, 2024, aimed to:
1.Secure Imeobi’s approval of the NEC resolution, affirming Rivers State’s constitutional turn to produce the next President-General.
2.Address the leadership vacuum following the death of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu on July 25, 2024.
3.Consider Imo State’s request to exhaust the remaining 27 days of their presidency tenure and present a replacement for Chief Iwuanyanwu.
4.Approve the composition of the Electoral and Screening Committees ahead of the January 10, 2025, election.
Key Resolutions
The Imeobi and General Assembly approved the nomination of Nze Ozichukwu Fidelis Chukwu as President-General. The Secretary-General, Ambassador Okey Emuchay, highlighted the invocation of a “doctrine of necessity” to ensure constitutional continuity amid the unprecedented deaths of prominent Igbo leaders.
Dismissal of Omenazu’s Claims
Ohanaeze reiterated that NEC never adopted an acting President-General, rendering Omenazu’s claims baseless. The organization also addressed his bid to replace Chief Kroham, urging him to follow due process similar to Imo State’s approach in nominating replacements.
Widespread Support for Decisions
The meeting attracted prominent Igbo leaders and dignitaries, including representatives of state governments and traditional institutions. Among those in attendance were:
•Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, represented by Prof. Chidiebere Onyia.
•Rear Admiral Allison Madueke, GCON.
•Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe.
•Prof. ABC Nwosu and many others.
The resolutions, particularly the nomination of Nze Chukwu and the scheduled January 2025 election, were widely celebrated as a milestone for Igbo unity and progress.
Election for New Leadership
Ohanaeze reaffirmed its commitment to conducting a transparent and credible election on January 10, 2025, to elect a new National Executive Committee led by a President-General from Rivers State.
Conclusion
Ohanaeze described Nze Ozichukwu Fidelis Chukwu as a man of integrity and character, expressing confidence in his ability to lead Ndigbo toward greater unity and prosperity.
Signed
Dr. Chiedozie Alex Ogbonnia
National Publicity Secretary, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide
