Former Imo State Governor Ikedi Ohakim has distanced himself from rumors suggesting that he is being positioned to become the next President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the prominent Igbo socio-cultural organization.
These rumors began circulating following the passing of Ohanaeze’s former President-General, Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, who died in July at the age of 82 after a brief illness. However, in a statement released on Monday, Ohakim made it clear that his focus is solely on ensuring a dignified burial for Iwuanyanwu, not on pursuing a leadership position within the organization.
Ohakim emphasized that he has no interest in the role and urged those spreading the rumors to stop circulating such misinformation. He stressed that this is a time to honor Iwuanyanwu’s legacy, not to engage in political maneuvering.
“My attention has been drawn to reports linking me to efforts to install me as the next President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo worldwide. I want to be clear: I have no knowledge of any such plans, and I have not been approached by anyone, nor have I shown any interest in the position,” Ohakim said.
He continued, “I strongly urge those involved in spreading this false information to cease immediately. We should be focused on mourning and reflecting on the late Ahaejiagamba’s [Iwuanyanwu's] contributions to peace and unity in Ala Igbo.”
Ohakim reiterated that his current priority is paying tribute to Iwuanyanwu and that he has no plans to pursue any role within Ohanaeze at this time.
