By Christopher Oji
More criticisms have continued to trial the selection of Igbo man of the year by the Ohaneze Nndi Igbo.
The criticism followed the nomination of a Minister who they said has not performed in his area of jurisdiction, yet he was nominated for the award .
The minister was a few days ago declared as the Igbo man of the Year by the Ohaneze Ndigbo.
Reacting to the announcement, an Igbo social group, Eastern Youth Mandate also known as (Nzuko Ndi Igbo) strongly opposed the selection of the minister , as the 2024 Igbo Man of the Year by the Chidi Ibeh-led faction of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.
The group criticized the decision and described it as a “misjudgment” and an affront to the values of merit and progress.
The group in a a press statement jointly signed by its group President, Mazi Maxwell Chuma Ofili and the Secretary, Mr Chuma Egbo expressed full support for the Concerned Igbo Elites Forum, which denounced the minister’s nomination as “unacceptable” and a “kangaroo nomination.”
The group argued that the minister has failed to meet the significant milestones required for such an esteemed honor, particularly pointing to his controversial tenure as Minister of Works, which has drawn widespread criticism for the state of federal roads across the country.
The igbo group also emphasized that awards like this should be reserved for leaders who have made meaningful contributions to their communities and the nation.
They specifically highlighted personalities such as Prince Arthur Eze, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr Allen Onyema the CEO of Air Peace, Sen Hope Uzodinma, Late Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyawu, Dr Peter Mbah of Enugu etc as a deserving candidate whose impactful work in infrastructure development and socio-economic initiatives aligns with the values that the Igbo nation, and Nigeria as a whole, should recognize and celebrate.
The group said, “We believe that merit and accountability must guide such recognitions,” the group stated.
Senator Dave Umahi’s tenure as Minister of Works has been marred by significant criticism, particularly regarding the fixing of Federal roads connected to South East region which his performance does not reflect the level of achievement expected of someone honored as Igbo Man of the Year.”
The group called on the leadership of the Chidi Ibeh-led faction of Ohanaeze Ndigbo to reconsider their decision and recognize leaders whose efforts have had a tangible, positive impact on the country.
They stressed that such honors should go to individuals who truly exemplify leadership, progress, accountability and sustainability of peace in the South East region especially in the current administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR.
The Eastern Youth Mandate (Nzuko Ndi Igbo) urged Igbo groups, individuals, and all well – meaning Nigerians to reject Umahi’s selection and advocate for the recognition of leaders whose accomplishments genuinely reflect the spirit of service and excellence without bias and compromise.