Delight Chinedum

The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Anambra State Chapter has cautioned members against partisan politics ahead of November 8 governorship election in the state.

State President Mazi Chukwuma Okpalaezeukwu gave the warning at a one-day enlightenment retreat and seminar, as part of measures to galvanize its various organs for greater efficiency.

He said the organization by its formation, was designed to champion political welfare, development and promotion of Ndigbo as a nation in Nigeria, but on a non-partisan basis.

He said: “This is an election year and we are urging our excos not to tilt to any political party. Rather, we should champion Igbo interests.

“We should look at manifestoes of the candidates, the individuals and personalities that will serve the Igbo interest, not along political or religious lines.

“We also have a duty to ensure that there is no voter apathy and that the people come out in their numbers to carry out their civic responsibility.

“We will also work to ensure a stable environment that will enable the people to participate in the elections.”

Speaking on the retreat, Okpalezeukwu explained that the enlightenment programme was targeted at enabling the new excos appreciate the expectations and mandate of the organization.

He reassured the commitment of the organization under his leadership to ensuring that its functionaries were alive to their responsibilities, to be able to fulfill their mandate.

Ohanaeze in the state has activated its organs for greater performance, especially at the community level. We’re hopeful that the retreat will make a positive impact in the workings of the organization.

Former National Vice President of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Chief Damian Okeke-Ogene stressed the need for the apex Igbo organization to carry itself as the leader of the Igbo nation.

“Ohaneze leadership must begin to carry itself as the leader of the Igbo nation. One of the practical ways of doing so is to lead by example,” he said.

On his part, immediate past Chairman of the State Association of Town Union, ASATU, Barr Titus Akpudo said the new leadership in the state had emerged, calling on other officials and members to rally support for it.
The retreat themed, “Ohanaeze Ndigbo as a mechanism to galvanize and uphold the core values of the Igbo race/nation with special reference to Anambra State” attracted state and local government executives as well as leadership of women and youth wings.