The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has called on Ohanaeze Ndigbo to uphold its constitutional provisions regarding the election of a new President General in January 2025.
In a statement released on Saturday by IPOB’s Media and Publicity Secretary, Emma Powerful, the group warned against any attempt to alter the constitution to exclude Igbos outside the South-East region from the leadership race.
According to IPOB, intelligence reports indicate that some individuals within Ohanaeze are considering amending the constitution to disqualify Ndigbo from Rivers State from producing the next President General. IPOB strongly condemned such plans, emphasizing that they would undermine Igbo unity.
“The zoning arrangement stipulated in Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s constitution must be respected,” IPOB stated. “With the current leadership led by an Imo State indigene set to end in January 2025, it is constitutionally the turn of Ndigbo in Rivers State to provide the next President General. Any move to deny this right will be met with consequences.”
IPOB reiterated its commitment to fostering unity among Ndigbo across Nigeria, including those in regions carved out of the South-East. The group also called on traditional rulers, elders, and the Imeobi of Ohanaeze to ensure fairness in the leadership selection process.
Warning Against External Interference
The group issued a stern warning against involving non-Igbo individuals, particularly former President Olusegun Obasanjo, in settling internal matters of Ohanaeze Ndigbo. IPOB described any such move as shameful and subservient, stating that Ndigbo have capable individuals to resolve their issues internally.
“There has never been a time when Yoruba leaders sought Igbo intervention in their internal matters,” the statement read. “It is disgraceful to contemplate dragging outsiders like Obasanjo into Ohanaeze’s affairs. Anyone attempting this should remain at Otta Farm and not return to Ala Igbo.”
Advocating for Unity and Competent Leadership
IPOB emphasized that Ndigbo in Rivers State have numerous competent individuals qualified to lead Ohanaeze Ndigbo. The group warned against actions that could disrupt the thread of unity among Igbos and urged Ohanaeze to act in the best interest of the Igbo nation.
“IPOB will not stand idly by while some individuals work against the collective interest of Ndigbo. The integrity and unity of Ala Igbo must remain paramount,” the statement concluded.
The election of Ohanaeze’s next President General in 2025 is expected to be a significant moment for the Igbo socio-cultural organization.
