In a stern response to recent claims regarding the creation of Anioma State, the Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the foremost pan-Igbo socio-cultural organization, has warned individuals it describes as “crisis triggers” to refrain from undermining the structure and integrity of the organization.
Ambassador Okey Emuchay, the Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, clarified the group’s stance following a controversial report suggesting that the organization had endorsed the call for the creation of Anioma State. Emuchay strongly criticized the authors of an open letter addressed to President Bola Tinubu, which purportedly indicated that Ohanaeze Ndigbo, representing the Igbo in 13 states and the diaspora, supported the Anioma State agitation.
The Secretary-General expressed dismay at the misrepresentation, stating that the group had not endorsed such a demand, and emphasized that any push for new states in the South-East should align with the collective aspirations of the Igbo people, achieved through consensus. He noted that Ohanaeze Ndigbo, as an umbrella body for the Igbo nation, ensures that major issues affecting the people are thoroughly debated and resolved through proper channels, such as the Imeobi Ohanaeze and the Ohanaeze General Assembly.
While Ohanaeze Ndigbo respects the legitimate right of the Anioma people to advocate for their cause, Emuchay stressed the need for such matters to be addressed within the framework of Igbo cultural consensus. He expressed support for Senator Ned Nwoko’s leadership of the Anioma movement but criticized the premature press release as irresponsible, given that other regions, like Aba, Adada, Etiti, Orashi, and Orlu, also have state creation demands that deserve equal consideration.
Emuchay further lamented the ongoing activities of individuals seeking to destabilize the organization, despite repeated appeals for caution. He reminded those involved in spreading misleading information about Ohanaeze Ndigbo that the organization holds significant emotional and cultural importance for the Igbo people worldwide.
The Secretary-General also confirmed that Ohanaeze Ndigbo would soon convene an Imeobi meeting to discuss important issues, including preparations for the 2025 Ohanaeze election. During this gathering, the organization will address pressing national issues affecting the Igbo community.
Emuchay concluded by reiterating that any press releases or statements not coming from the official channels of Ohanaeze Ndigbo should be disregarded, urging those involved in such activities to respect the sacredness of the organization.
Gathered by: Onoro Promise Edesiri