The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has criticized certain Igbo leaders for calling for the appointment of an acting President General following the recent death of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, describing the move as against Igbo cultural values. The call reportedly arose following the demise of both Iwuanyanwu and his Deputy President General, Chief Joel Kroham of Rivers State.
Reacting to the call, Ohanaeze’s National Publicity Secretary, Alex Ogbonnia, expressed dismay that some leaders were prioritizing leadership succession before Iwuanyanwu’s burial, branding such actions as a breach of Igbo traditions. Ogbonnia remarked that while many Nigerians have shown unwavering respect for Iwuanyanwu’s passing, a few Igbo leaders have held discussions about appointing an acting President General, which he considers deeply inappropriate.
He emphasized that such a move disregards fundamental Igbo norms and culture, especially given the proximity of the late leader’s funeral, scheduled for November 1, 2024. Ohanaeze’s Secretary-General, Ambassador Okey Emuchay, assured the Igbo community that the organization remains stable under the capable leadership of its National Executive Committee (NEC), and that there is no leadership vacuum.
Emuchay also urged the Igbo people to focus on the burial rites of their late leader, assuring them that appropriate steps will be taken to determine Ohanaeze’s future leadership after the funeral.
