Factional secretary-general of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Mazi Okechukwu lsiguzoro, has called for a review of the findings and recommendations proposed by the College of lgbo Bishops as a panacea for fostering enduring peace within the organisation.
Isiguzoro said this became necessary in response to the misleading narrative propagated by Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, to assert the imperative of clarifying the facts for posterity’s sake.
This was contained in a statement he personally signed and made available to The Trumpet on Saturday.
The statement stated that It is pertinent to dispel misconceptions and confront the challenges head-on with courage and sagacity.
According to lsiguzoro, the crisis within Ohanaeze has not escaped the attention of the Southeast Governors since February 2021, who recognize the urgency of resolving internal discord for the greater good of Ndigbo.
His statement read” In a bid to restore tranquillity, the College of Bishops, led by Archbishop Emeritus, His Grace, AV. Obinna Of Owerri Archdiocese of Catholic church and the Archbishop of Archdiocese of Umuahia, Methodist Church, His Grace, Most Rev Dr Chibuzo Opoko, intervened, with Chief Iwuanyanwu got a comprehensive report on the Findings of the College of Igbo Bishop findings, recommendations into the OHANAEZE NDIGBO crisis on 31st January 2023 in Enugu State following the unfortunate passing of George Obiozor.
‘It is essential to note that Iwuanyanwu’s ascension did not adhere to the constitutional requirements outlined in Section 11 of the Ohanaeze constitution, thereby hindering the convening of a unified Imeobi and General Assembly.
“As the tenure of the President General from Imo State draws to a close on January 10th, 2025, and the mantle is set to transition to Rivers State on January 11th, 2025, the spectre of factionalism looms large.
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“Efforts to engage Iwuanyanwu’s faction in reconciliation have been met with resistance, indicating a divergence of interests driven by unseen political forces.
“The machinations to circumvent the constitutional provisions for a seamless transfer of leadership signal a disregard for the sanctity of democratic principles and the unity of Ndigbo.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo calls for the immediate review of the findings and recommendations proposed by the College of Igbo Bishops to avert a protracted crisis that could outlast the upcoming 2025 Ohanaeze election.
“Any attempts at elongating tenures or subverting the established protocols for personal gain will be vehemently resisted, with various Igbo organizations poised to pursue legal remedies if necessary.
“The coordinated efforts to thwart the legitimate emergence of a President General from Rivers State in 2025 run counter to the ethos of unity and historical rectification.
“It is incumbent upon all stakeholders, including Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, to embrace a spirit of conciliation and cooperate towards a peaceful transition of leadership from Imo State to Rivers State.
“Any obstruction to this harmonious process represents a regressive act perpetuated by those concerned solely with individual agendas rather than the collective welfare of Ndigbo.
“The forthcoming election presents a unique opportunity to bridge the cultural and identity divide that has persisted in Rivers State since the aftermath of the Biafran Civil War, emphasizing the significance of unity and inclusivity.
“Ohanaeze reiterates its commitment to upholding the principles of democracy, transparency, and unity, as embodied in the resolve to implement the College of Igbo Bishop reports to guide the organization towards a harmonious future.
“Let the spirit of peace reign supreme, and let us all rally behind the shared vision of a stronger, more cohesive Ohanaeze Ndigbo.
