The Rivers State chapter of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, known as Ogbakor Ndi-Igbo na Rivers, has urged the Ijaw National Congress (INC) to refrain from interfering in its internal affairs. This appeal follows the INC’s reaction to a communique issued by Ogbakor Ndi-Igbo’s convener, Livingstone Wechie, regarding the leadership aspirations of Rivers Ndi-Igbo within the Ohanaeze Ndigbo framework.
At a stakeholders’ meeting on November 18, 2024, in Port Harcourt, Livingstone Wechie announced Rivers Ndi-Igbo’s readiness to produce the next President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex socio-cultural organization of the Igbo people. This declaration drew a response from the INC, which, in a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Ezonebi Oyakemeagbegha, warned Ohanaeze Ndi-Igbo to avoid encroaching into Rivers State affairs.
The INC reaffirmed its commitment to Nigeria’s unity but noted that if the nation were to disintegrate, the Ijaws would remain independent and not align with any ethnic bloc, including the Ohanaeze Ndigbo or Afenifere.
In a swift response, Wechie emphasized that the Ijaw nation’s concerns were misplaced, stating, “Our demand for the presidency of Ohanaeze Ndigbo is not a matter that concerns the Ijaw nation. Ndigbo have no interest in encroaching on territories belonging to other groups.” He highlighted the historical and cultural ties between the Ijaw and Igbo communities, asserting that mutual respect and tolerance should guide interactions among Rivers State’s diverse ethnic groups.
Wechie also called for peaceful coexistence, stressing, “Rivers State is a multicultural and multi-ethnic state with distinct identities and kindred ties. Our historical and biological connections are propellants for mutual respect and inclusivity.”
Meanwhile, Chief Uche Okwukwu, former Deputy Secretary-General of Ohanaeze, reaffirmed the legitimacy of Rivers Ndi-Igbo’s aspirations, citing constitutional provisions. According to him, Article 11 of Ohanaeze’s constitution ensures the rotation of the President-General’s position among its seven member states, including Igbo-speaking areas of Rivers and Delta States.
“The aspiration of Rivers Ndi-Igbo to produce the next President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo on January 10, 2025, has garnered support from key stakeholders and traditional rulers who are committed to upholding the constitution,” Okwukwu stated.
This development comes in the wake of the passing of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, the 11th President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, who died on July 25, 2024, at the age of 81. As discussions continue, stakeholders are calling for intellectual discourse to clarify Rivers Ndi-Igbo’s constitutional rights and solidify their position within Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s leadership structure.
The debate underscores the complexity of ethnic relations in Rivers State, highlighting the need for dialogue and mutual respect to foster unity among its diverse groups.
