From Chijioke Ufoh, Abakaliki
Apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has affirmed the recognition of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, as the central leader, while dismissing the purported suspension.
Ohanaeze, on Friday, said the dismissal followed due cognisance of recent reports and circulating claims regarding an alleged suspension of Kanu from his recognised leadership standing within IPOB.
The organisation stated that it noted with concern the misinformation, tension, and apprehension generated by such reports across communities within Igboland and the diaspora, necessitating this clear and authoritative clarification.
”After careful review and consultation within its constitutional mandate as an impartial cultural institution, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide states unequivocally that, the alleged suspension of Nnamdi Kanu was not recognised, not validated, and holds no institutional or communal legitimacy within its purview.
”The claims attributed to certain individuals or aggrieved members, including Chika Edozien and associates, are regarded as unofficial and incapable of altering established recognitions or ongoing engagements.
”Accordingly, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu remains a central and widely acknowledged leadership figure associated with the Indigenous People of Biafra, Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
”Ohanaeze Ndigbo expresses deep concern that internal disagreements within any organised structure have the potential to destabilise the fragile peace currently being enjoyed across the South East region.
”For nearly eleven months, Igboland has witnessed a gradual but significant return to stability, reflected in renewed agricultural activities across rural communities, restoration of cultural festivals and traditional gatherings, revival of commercial and economic engagements.
”Increased confidence from local and external investors. These gains remain delicate, and must not be undermined by avoidable internal disputes or inflammatory narratives.
”The organisation strongly urges all stakeholders, particularly aggrieved members within Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to exercise restraint, maturity, and responsibility in handling internal matters,” the pan lgbo group said in a statement signed by Ohanaeze’s Deputy President-General, Mazi Okechukwu lsiguzoro, and its Deputy Secretary-General, Professor Chibuikeya Achoakawa.
Ohanaeze emphasised that dialogue remains the most viable and sustainable pathway to conflict resolution, noting that internal disputes must not be allowed to escalate into public tension or communal insecurity.
”All grievances should be addressed through structured engagement and peaceful reconciliation mechanisms.
”Ohanaeze reiterates its continuous commitment to back-channel engagements and broader dialogue initiatives aimed at promoting unity among Igbo stakeholders, and strengthening efforts toward the release and reintegration of detained pro-Biafra individuals, including the authentic leader of IPOB, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. The organisation underscores that ongoing divisions, if left unresolved, may jeopardise these delicate and strategic processes.
”Ohanaeze reaffirms that peace, unity, and collective responsibility remain the cornerstone of Igbo progress,” it stated.
The organisation further added that it would not condone any action, statement, or agitation capable of rekindling insecurity, destabilising communities, or reversing the hard-earned peace currently experienced across Igboland.