The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has issued a strong warning to former President Olusegun Obasanjo, urging him to stay away from the selection process for the next President-General of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo.
IPOB emphasized that Obasanjo should not involve himself in what it described as an internal matter for the Igbo people. This statement comes amid reports that some members of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo are considering seeking Obasanjo’s intervention in the election process.
In a statement released by its spokesperson, Emma Powerful, IPOB expressed its displeasure over plans by certain Ohanaeze chieftains to approach Obasanjo for assistance in resolving issues related to the selection of the next President-General. IPOB made it clear that the selection process must remain free of external influence, particularly from individuals who are not part of the Igbo community.
IPOB further reiterated its stance that Igbos living outside the Southeast should be allowed to fully participate in the election process. According to the organization, this inclusion is vital to ensuring a fair and democratic election for the leadership of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo. IPOB’s comments reflect the ongoing debates surrounding the leadership of the socio-cultural group and the role of various factions within the Igbo community.
The selection of a new President-General for Ohanaeze Ndigbo is scheduled for January 2025, following the death of the former President-General, Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu. IPOB has pointed out that there are growing concerns among some Ohanaeze members about the influence of external figures like Obasanjo on the election, which is set to take place in Rivers State. The group has warned that such interference could undermine the legitimacy of the process.
Reports suggest that some Ohanaeze leaders are planning a visit to Obasanjo’s residence in Ota, Ogun State, to seek his input in resolving internal differences. However, IPOB has rejected this move, stating that only the Ime-Obi (the governing council), traditional rulers, and religious leaders within the Igbo community should handle the resolution of internal disputes. The group emphasized that the involvement of non-Igbo figures, particularly someone like Obasanjo, would be inappropriate and counterproductive.
In a strongly worded statement, Emma Powerful categorically warned any individuals or groups contemplating visiting Obasanjo to abandon the idea for their own good. According to IPOB, it is the responsibility of Igbo leaders and traditional authorities to address issues within the Ohanaeze Ndigbo, not outsiders. The group further criticized the notion of seeking solutions from other ethnic groups, calling it a “shameful” and “subservient” act that would undermine the dignity of the Igbo people.
IPOB’s statement also pointed out that Igbo leaders are fully capable of resolving their internal matters without the need for outside intervention. The group expressed confidence in the integrity and leadership abilities of Igbos, both within and outside the Southeast, to address any issues related to the Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s leadership selection. IPOB stressed that it would not tolerate any efforts to undermine the rights of Igbos in Rivers State to present a candidate for the position of President-General.
The organization also warned that any attempt to deny the people of Rivers State their rightful opportunity to present a candidate for the President-General position would be met with strong resistance. IPOB emphasized that more than 75% of Ndigbo living in Rivers State are competent and capable of taking up the leadership role. The group further cautioned that those attempting to manipulate the election process would be held fully responsible for any negative consequences that might follow.
IPOB vowed to oppose any efforts by individuals within Ohanaeze Ndigbo who attempt to involve Obasanjo in the group’s internal affairs. The group labeled such actions as “selfish” and “disgraceful,” stressing that it would not allow the unity of Ndigbo to be compromised by outside influences or internal betrayal. IPOB’s strong statements reflect the growing tensions and divisions within the Ohanaeze Ndigbo leadership as the election date draws near.
