IPOB Congratulates Uche Okwukwu as Ohanaeze President-General, Warns Governors Against Interference

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has extended its congratulations to Barrister Uche Okwukwu following his emergence as the new President-General of the influential Igbo sociocultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo. IPOB expressed strong support for Okwukwu’s appointment and issued a stern warning to Southeast governors and Ohanaeze’s Ime-Obi against attempting to undermine the people’s choice due to political selfishness.

IPOB Criticizes Southeast Governors for Undermining Igbo Interests

Emma Powerful, the spokesperson for IPOB, stated that the Southeast governors, particularly under the leadership of Hope Uzodinma, have once again engaged in activities that threaten the progress of the Igbo nation. He accused the governors of undermining the democratic process and trying to sabotage the will of the people for political gain.

Powerful further criticized the governors for benefiting from insecurity in parts of Igboland and acting in ways that are detrimental to the unity and advancement of the Igbo people. He expressed concern that these leaders might reject Okwukwu’s election in favor of a more politically aligned candidate, thus deepening the divisions within Igbo society.

A Strong Stand Against Political Manipulation

“If the reports making the rounds are confirmed that these governors, led by Hope Uzodinma, have openly rejected the legitimate and popular choice of the people in Barr. Uche Okwukwu, then it will mark a dangerous shift,” said Powerful. He warned that such actions could fuel chaos within the socio-political framework of the Igbo nation. IPOB made it clear that it would not tolerate any attempt to impose a politician on the people and would stand firmly with religious leaders to ensure that any governor who obstructs the people’s will faces serious political consequences.

The Voice of the People: A Call for Unity and Respect

IPOB emphasized that the voice of the people is sacred, quoting the popular adage, “Vox populi vox Dei” — the voice of the people is the voice of God. The organization stressed that the people of Rivers State, where Okwukwu hails from, have spoken decisively in favor of his leadership, and no force could overturn that choice.

With these statements, IPOB reiterated its unwavering support for Uche Okwukwu’s leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo and called for unity and respect for the people’s decisions. They warned that any interference with the appointment would only deepen the rift within Igboland, setting the stage for a larger political battle.