Ohanaeze Rivers Chapter Endorses Ex-IGP Mike Okiro For President-General Role

The Rivers State chapter of Ohanaeze Ndigbo has officially endorsed former Inspector General of Police, Mike Okiro, as its candidate for the position of President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide.

The endorsement was made ahead of the organization’s election scheduled for January 10-11, 2025.

The leadership role was zoned to Rivers State following the tenure of Nze Ozichukwu Chukwu, who completed the term of the late Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu from Imo State.

At an event in Port Harcourt, Chief Dr. Lucky Ekeji, President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Rivers State, affirmed Okiro’s eligibility and described him as a true son of Rivers State, hailing from the Egbema community.

Ekeji dismissed speculations about Okiro’s ethnic qualifications, stating, “Let’s set the record straight: Dr. Mike Mbama Okiro is, in fact, a true son of Rivers State, hailing from Mgbede in Ogba/Egbema Local Government Area. The notion that he’s not from Rivers State is completely baseless. He has the full support and backing of his people to run for the position, and his qualifications speak for themselves.”

Women leaders within Ohanaeze Ndigbo, represented by Mrs. Love Chimezie Meregini, pledged their unanimous support for Okiro, praying for wisdom to lead the Igbos effectively.

“We need a leader who understands the pains and challenges facing the Igbos, especially in a country where we have been marginalized in governance,” Meregini said.

She also lauded the entrepreneurial spirit of the Igbo people, noting their contributions to small and medium-scale businesses that have become industrial hubs.

Addressing the endorsement, Okiro outlined his vision for Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, emphasizing the need to protect the interests of the Igbo people globally.

“My goal is to mobilize Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide for a greater future, ensuring the safety and prosperity of our members and their investments wherever they may be,” he stated.

Okiro also addressed lingering rumours about his origins, reiterating his identity as an Igbo man from Mgbede in Ogba/Egbema LGA, an Igbo community in Rivers State.

“I urge everyone to discard any rumours questioning my identity. I am proud to represent Rivers State and the Igbo nation,” he said.