The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has appointed Nze Fidelis Chukwu from Imo State as its new President-General, tasked with completing the state’s tenure, which ends on January 10, 2025.
A Leadership Transition Marked by Losses
The appointment comes in the wake of a series of leadership tragedies within Ohanaeze:
- Prof. George Obiozor, who initially held the position, passed away in 2022.
- Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, who succeeded him, was sworn in on April 30, 2023, but tragically died on July 25, 2024, and was laid to rest on November 1, 2024.
The organization invoked the doctrine of necessity to ensure Imo State completes its four-year tenure, as mandated by Ohanaeze’s rotation structure.
The Appointment Process
According to a statement by Ohanaeze’s National Publicity Secretary, Alex Ogbonnia, the Imo State Chapter, led by C.J. Ihemedu, nominated Chukwu to serve the remainder of the tenure.
- The motion for Chukwu’s adoption was moved by Eze Cletus Ilomuanya, Chairman of the Imo Council of Elders, and seconded by Chief Simon Okeke.
- His nomination was unanimously approved by the Imeobi Ohanaeze, the organization’s highest decision-making body, through a voice vote.
Swearing-In and Expectations
Chukwu was sworn in as President-General by the National Legal Adviser, Joseph Ojobu, and Assistant Legal Adviser, Dr. Peter Aneke. Representatives of the South-East Governors’ Forum, led by Governor Peter Mbah, charged him with ensuring a transparent and credible election for Ohanaeze’s leadership transition.
Support from Other States
State presidents of Ohanaeze from Abia, Anambra, Delta, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Rivers States expressed their approval of Chukwu’s appointment and pledged their support for his leadership during the short tenure.
This interim appointment aims to stabilize Ohanaeze Ndigbo and ensure a smooth electoral process for its next leadership.
