ADF Demands Justice for Nnamdi Kanu, Warns Against Political Manipulation in Ohaneze Ndigbo Elections

Ahead of the forthcoming national elections for the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohaneze Ndigbo, the Alaigbo Development Foundation (ADF) has strongly opposed the potential imposition of former Inspector General of Police, Mike Mbama Okiro, as the President General (PG) of the organization.

In a statement released on Saturday by the National President of ADF and former President of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Professor Ukachukwu Awuzie, the think tank warned against manipulating the process to impose Okiro, citing concerns about the organization’s credibility and political independence.

The statement, titled “ADF Position on Ohaneze Presidency and Other National Matters,” recalled the leadership history of Ohaneze, noting the recent deaths of Imo State’s ambassadors George Obiozor and Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, which led to the election of Nze Ozichukwu as the acting PG. With the tenure of the Imo State PG ending in January 2025, the ADF emphasized the need for the position to rotate, as prescribed by the Ohaneze Constitution, which mandates that the PG position should rotate among the five South East states and Delta State. The ADF argued that Rivers State should be the next to produce the PG.

The Foundation stressed that electing a representative from Rivers State is crucial for strengthening ties between Ndi Igbo beyond the South East, asserting that such an action would heal historical divisions, particularly those related to the 1967-1970 genocide and the subsequent anti-Igbo sentiments in parts of the country.

Despite this, the ADF warned against any attempt to manipulate the election process to crown Okiro, an outsider whose affiliation with Igbo affairs was questioned. They emphasized that the position of PG should be filled through a fair and transparent election, with adherence to the Ohaneze Constitution, including the publication of shortlisted candidates before the vote.

The ADF also condemned the continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), calling for his unconditional release. The group noted that while individuals associated with heinous crimes have been freed, Kanu, a freedom fighter, remains in custody. They condemned what they described as discriminatory justice, citing the release of leaders from the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association (MACBAN) as an example of unequal treatment for different ethnic groups in Nigeria.

In addition to its concerns about political manipulation, the ADF condemned the recent arrest and detention of human rights activist and lawyer, Dele Farotimi, urging for justice to be delivered impartially by the judiciary. The Foundation further criticized the current government under President Bola Tinubu for its perceived failure to alleviate the economic hardships faced by Nigerians, especially in light of the ongoing currency shortages and food insecurity.

The ADF called on the Nigerian government to take immediate action to address these crises, ensuring that citizens do not suffer further under policies that exacerbate their hardships.

As the organization continues to push for accountability, the ADF’s call for fairness, justice, and proper leadership remains central to its mission for the betterment of the Igbo people and Nigeria as a whole.