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By Henry Uche
Following a prolonged leadership crisis among the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos State, the Acting President of the socio-cultural group in the state, High Chief Linus Igbudu, has called for reconciliation, peace, unity, and harmony among opposing and disgruntled members.
Addressing newsmen in Lagos, yesterday, the Acting President said, in light of recent leadership changes within Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos State, it is better for everyone to embrace dialogue and understanding for the sake of the younger generation of Igbo nation, being a highly esteemed group. Igbudu narrated that the face-off that beclouded the group stemmed from a leadership crisis initiated by its former president, Solomon Ogbonna, who sought to extend his tenure, contrary to the directives of the group’s national leadership and the constitution by securing a contentious consent judgment.
Igbudu decried that Mr. Ogbonna’s recent actions have significantly set back Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos State and, by extension, its national executives.
In response to their challenges, he maintained that the 2022/2026 executives of Ohanaeze Lagos, along with LGA chairmen and key stakeholders, have engaged in extensive discussions – focused on reconciliation and healing.
“Through this commitment, we have reached high-level decisions that will not only address past grievances, but also reposition Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos State on the path of growth and unity. We recognise the importance of transparency and open communication in our mission.
“Our objective is to safeguard and promote the interests of the Ndigbo community in Lagos State in alignment with the principles of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide”
He continued: “The so-called ‘Reunion’ party organised by Mr. Solomon Ogbonna and Mr Leonard Okafor, presented as a peace initiative, amounted to what many members described as the ‘Peace of the grave yard’ he stressed.
The group unanimously explained that, rather than fostering reconciliation, the event put together by Ogbonna aggravated existing tension and created further cracks in the Unit and structural cohesion of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos State.
They affirmed that, following the indefinite suspension and subsequent removal of one Chief Sunday Ossai for gross misconduct, the state executives and Local Government Chairmen passed a ‘Vote of no confidence’ on him, moreover, the resolution was duly presented to and ratified by the General Assembly.
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Consequently, they added that, High Chief Linus Igbudu, the Vice President for Enugu State, was appointed and approved by the house to serve as Acting President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos State, more so, his appointment became necessary following the absent of Chief Sunnex Ohanazoeze, the Deputy President.
“The General Assembly reaffirms our unwavering commitment to peace, unity, constitutionalism, and respect for the rule of law. In furtherance to reconciliation and orderly administration, a Local Organising Committee (LOC) and Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) have been constituted and await formal inauguration in the coming days.
“The LOC is chaired by Dr Kevin Oguine, and Dr Lady Ada Ofegbu as the Secretary, while the TRC is Chaired by Nze John Paul Ezenwaka, and Asomugha JohnPaul as the Secretary of the Commission.
“Because of the deep rot within Ohanaeze and the bitterness amongst members, the Exco, Chairmen, and key stakeholders have agreed to establish a Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC). This TRC, modeled after the historic process in South Africa, and our own Oputa Panel inspired by credible truth-seeking panels of global repute, will provide an open platform for all who are prepared to speak honestly and without fear.
“Those who come forward in sincerity, acknowledge their actions, and commit to genuine reconciliation will have the opportunity for forgiveness and a clean slate” they assured.
They posited that the purpose is not witch-hunting, humiliation, nor division, but healing, restoration, and closure. “Only the truth can cleanse. Only reconciliation can rebuild. And only courage can restore the dignity of our apex body in Lagos.
“The LOC will work hand in hand with the Ohanaeze Worldwide National Electoral Committee for Lagos to ensure that a credible and transparent election is conducted in Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos State, in line with Ohanaeze Worldwide National Constitution”
They revealed that nomination forms will be made affordable to reinforce the principle that – leadership in Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos State is a call to service, not personal gain.
“Following the NEC position on Ohanaeze Lagos, during their peace meeting in Lagos, we are resolute that the pending litigations will be disposed of within the time frame with positive outcomes.
“We call on all stakeholders to embrace dialogue, uphold our Constitution and work collectively towards a peaceful, transparent, and credible process. We sincerely appreciate your support as we work together to strengthen our community and uphold the values of Ohanaeze Ndigbo” they added.
