Former Imo Gov, Ohakim Speaks On Moves To Install Him As Next Ohanaeze President-General

Ikedi Ohakim

A former governor of Imo State, Ikedi Ohakim, has disassociated himself from reports of an alleged move to install him as the next President-General of the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo.

Recall that the President-General of the Igbo group, Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, died in July at 82 after a brief illness.

In a statement issued on Monday, Ohakim said he had no interest in Ohanaeze’s presidency but focused on the burial of Iwuanyanwu.

The former governor said he is committed to ensuring that Iwuanyanwu receives a befitting farewell and not on the issue of succession.

Ohakim urged those behind the publication on the move of his installment to desist from circulating such information.

The statement read: “My attention has been drawn to a widely published media report linking me with a certain move in some quarters to install me as the next President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo worldwide; and as a result of which I have been inundated with inquiries from well-meaning Nigerians seeking clarification.

“Let me be clear: I have no knowledge of any plans to elect or appoint me as the next President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo. No individual or group has contacted me, neither have I expressed interest in the position.

“I urge those spreading this malicious and reckless disinformation and bringing up the politics of Ohanaeze Ndigbo at this stage to desist from it and allow Ndigbo to mourn and reflect on the late Ahaejiagamba’s legacy, which brought peace and tranquility to our organization and Ala Igbo as a whole.

“I reiterate: I have no involvement in or interest in the Ohanaeze Ndigbo presidency at this time.”