Ben Ezechime, Enugu
The President-General (PG) of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Nze Ozichukwu Fidelis Chukwu, says he is committed to handing over the reins of power to an indigene of Rivers State.
The National Publicity Secretary, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Dr Alex Ogbonna, made this known in a statement made available to newsmen in Enugu.
He quoted Ozichuchukwu as saying: “Though my tenure as a President General is very brief, but what matters is the impact and legacy with which we will be remembered.
“The millions of Igbo people all over the world are watching us with more than a passing interest on the quality of Ohanaeze leadership that will be enthroned on January 10, 2025”.
According to the statement, Chukwu made the above remarks during the Valedictory Session of the National Executive Committee (NEC) of Ohanaeze Ndigbo which was held on Wednesday, January 8, 2025 at its National Secretariat, No 7 Park Avenue, GRA, Enugu.
The Igbo Leader reiterated that the success or failure of any organisation was a function of its leadership recruitment process.
He explained that the Screening, Appeal and Electoral Committees for the purpose of the Ohanaeze election comprised 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 Igbo states in general to ensure that only men and women of integrity and proven records of accomplishments were put forward to fill the offices zoned to the states in accordance with the rotation principles of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.
“Every true Igbo looks forward to a vibrant Ohanaeze Ndigbo; a sociocultural organization that comprises men and women of honour, moral rectitude and selfless service, an organization that lives up to expectations and places the Igbo interest first in their policies and programmes.”
“In addition, an Ohanaeze that every Igbo will embrace with pride irrespective of political leaning, ideological persuasions and religious affiliations,” he said.
He said 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.
“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,” Chukwu said.
Ikengaonline reports that, all is now set for the election of President General which is expected to hold at the Ohanaeze Ndigbo headquarters, Enugu.