The Ohanaeze Ndigbo General Assembly Worldwide has commenced moves to resolve the leadership crisis and legal disputes rocking the Lagos State chapter of the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation.
The group disclosed this in a statement issued on Saturday by Chukwuma Njoku, the Media Aide to the group’s Director-General, Strategic Planning and Implementation, Tony Obizoba, following a strategic meeting attended by elders and notable Igbo leaders in Lagos.
According to the statement, the assembly resolved to work towards ending the multiple and prolonged legal cases over the leadership of the organisation and address the activities of individuals allegedly parading themselves as President-General, executive members and other officials without the necessary legal documentation or authority.
It also disclosed plans for the inauguration of a new President-General to provide leadership and unite Ndigbo under a legitimate and legally recognised structure.
The assembly further raised concerns over individuals allegedly declaring themselves Eze Ndigbo in their various places of residence without following established traditional processes or obtaining the appropriate legal and institutional documentation.
It stressed that traditional and organisational leadership positions should be occupied through due process and in accordance with relevant laws and established customs.
“The time had come for Igbo leaders and stakeholders to work together under a properly registered and legally recognised body for the advancement and wellbeing of Ndigbo both in Nigeria and abroad.
“The Lagos meeting is part of a broader series of consultations and strategic engagements currently being undertaken to address existing challenges and reposition Ndigbo on a progressive, united and sustainable path,” the statement read.
