Ohanaeze Ndigbo to elect first-ever Rivers State indigene as president at its summit tomorrow

RIVERS State will produce the next president-general of Ohanaeze Ndigbo when the organisation elects a new set of officials tomorrow  in what will be a landmark development with the Igbos of the state taking the helm of affairs for the first time ever.

Historically, the presidency of Ohanaeze Ndigbo has rotated between Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, Delta and Imo states. Although Rivers State is home to a number of Igbo sub-groups including the Ikwerre, Etche, Ubani and Ekpeye, they have never really associated with Ohanaeze up until now, choosing instead to identify with the Ijaw and other south-south groups.

Prominent Ikwerres like Peter Odili, Rotimi Amaechi and Nyesom Wike for instance, have identified or defined themselves as Igbo despite the fact that their language is an Igbo dialect. In a clear sign that Ohanaeze wants to attract more of these riverine Igbos, its outgoing president Chief Ozichukwu Chukwu, has reaffirmed his commitment to hand over to an indigene of Rivers State tomorrow.

Speaking during the valedictory session of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo national executive committee yesterday at the National Secretariat in Enugu, he said that although his tenure as president-general is very brief, what matters is the impact and legacy with which they will be remembered. Also, Chief Chukwu reiterated that the success or failure of any organisation is a function of its leadership recruitment process.

He explained that the screening, appeal and electoral committees for the purpose of the forthcoming Ohanaeze Ndigbo election will comprise of men and women whose public records and antecedents are above reproach. He urged the people of Igbo extraction in Rivers State in particular and other  states in general to ensure that only men and women of integrity and proven records of accomplishments are put forward to fill the offices zoned to them in accordance with the rotation principles of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.

Chief Chukwu said: “Every true Igbo looks forward to a vibrant Ohanaeze Ndigbo, a socio-cultural organisation that comprises men and women of honour, moral rectitude and selfless service, an organisation that lives up to expectations and places the Igbo interest first in their policies and programmes. We want an Ohanaeze that every Igbo will embrace with pride irrespective of political leaning, ideological persuasions and religious affiliations.”

He emphasised that for one to lead the Igbo, the person must have proven experience in leadership roles, particularly in cultural organisations, age grades, town unions, market associations or similar contexts. Chief Chukwu added: “Evidently, the person must be well educated with demonstrable leadership traits, including strategic thinking, communication and problem-solving skills.

“Not only that, the person must have cultural competence, a deep understanding of Igbo culture, traditions, and values. Above all, such a person must have a profile of strong moral character, transparency, and accountability."