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Ikwerre Group Endorses Amaechi for Ohanaeze Presidency as NEC Confirms Rivers’ Turn

Published by Tope Fakinlede on December 7th, 2024.

Ikwerre Group Endorses Amaechi for Ohanaeze Presidency as NEC Confirms Rivers’ Turn

The Ikwerre Youths Progressive Initiative (IYPI), a prominent socio-cultural organization, has expressed strong support for Rotimi Amaechi, the former Governor of Rivers State and ex-Minister of Transportation, to contest for the position of President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.

In a statement issued by the group’s National Leader, Barrister Cosmas Ozinyowe, the IYPI highlighted Amaechi’s exceptional leadership skills and his potential to shape a new vision for the Igbo community. According to Ozinyowe, Amaechi’s candidacy represents an opportunity to unite over 70 million Igbos across the globe and redefine their political presence in Nigeria.

Ozinyowe noted Amaechi’s extensive experience in governance, emphasizing his capacity to bring strategic change. “The role of Ohanaeze President-General presents a significant chance to redefine the Igbo identity within Nigeria’s political framework, while promoting national unity,” he stated. The group lauded Amaechi’s ability to bridge divides and elevate the voices of the Igbo people on the national stage. They pointed out his rich political background, which includes two terms as governor and his tenure as a federal minister, making him well-suited for the position.

The IYPI also stressed that Amaechi’s leadership would benefit all regions, leveraging his strong relationships across the South-South, North, and West to foster national cohesion through cultural exchange, economic partnerships, and dialogue. “Your proven ability to unite diverse political interests and achieve significant results, such as the APC’s 2015 victory, is exactly the kind of leadership Ohanaeze needs,” Ozinyowe added.

The group believes Amaechi has the capacity to heal historical divisions and provide inclusive governance, further solidifying Ohanaeze’s position as a key player in Nigeria’s political and socio-economic landscape.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo Confirms Rivers State’s Right to Produce Next President-General

ENUGU – The leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo has officially reaffirmed that the next President-General of the organization will come from Rivers State, in line with its constitutional rotational zoning arrangement.

In a statement following a meeting in Enugu, the National Executive Committee (NEC) of Ohanaeze confirmed that the Secretary-General would soon convene a meeting of Ime Obi, the highest decision-making body of Ohanaeze, to form an electoral committee for the upcoming election set for January 2025. This move aims to ensure a smooth and transparent election process, putting to rest any rumors about potential disruptions to the zoning structure.

Dr. Chiedozie Alex Ogbonnia, the National Publicity Secretary, made the announcement, stating, “The NEC remains fully committed to the constitutional provision that mandates Rivers State to produce the next President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in January 2025.”

The NEC also emphasized that the election preparations would begin immediately. The Secretary-General, Ambassador Emuchay, in consultation with South East Governors, Igbo Senators, traditional rulers, town unions, and other key stakeholders, will lead efforts to establish the electoral committee.

In addition to the electoral announcement, the NEC extended its gratitude to the Igbo community for their unwavering support and assured everyone that the election would be carried out successfully. The committee also acknowledged the successful organization of the late President-General, Chief Iwuanyanwu’s funeral by the National Burial Committee, led by Senator Ben Obi, and thanked the South East Governors Forum and other Igbo leaders for their cooperation during the event.