Uche Okwukwu, a former Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has affirmed that he was duly elected as the new President-General of the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization.
This declaration comes amid confusion following the emergence of two individuals claiming the position. Reports indicate that Okwukwu, from Rivers State, was elected in Port Harcourt by a faction of the organization, while Senator John Azuta-Mbata was declared President-General in an election held in Enugu.
Speaking on Arise TV on Saturday, Okwukwu criticized the election in Enugu, arguing that it did not follow Ohanaeze’s established traditions. He emphasized that the election held in Port Harcourt adhered to the group’s customary rotational practices.
“In 2017, the elections were held in Enugu because the President-General was to emerge from Enugu,” Okwukwu explained. “In 2021, it was Imo State’s turn, and the election took place in Imo. For 2025, Rivers State was to produce the President-General, and the election was held in Port Harcourt. It concluded in the early hours of January 10, 2025.”
Okwukwu, who has the backing of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), firmly rejected the legitimacy of the Enugu election, asserting, “I, Uche Okwukwu, former Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Worldwide, emerged victorious in the election held in Port Harcourt.
“I don’t recognize any election held in the Enugu State Government House. It goes against our tradition. Elections should be held in accessible locations, not in restricted or caged environments like a government house.”
The conflicting claims have deepened the leadership crisis within Ohanaeze Ndigbo, sparking debates about the organization’s electoral processes and governance.
