The Ohanaeze Youth Council (OYC), a prominent youth arm of the Igbo socio-cultural organization, has expressed grave concerns over the projected candidacy of former Inspector General of Police, Chief Mike Okiro, in the forthcoming Ohanaeze Ndigbo Presidential election.
In a press release signed by Comrade Igboayaka O. Igboayaka, National President of the OYC, and Comrade Ifeanyichukwu Nweke, Secretary General, the group warned that Okiro’s candidacy could exacerbate divisions among the Igbo people, potentially hindering unity for generations to come.
Chief Mike Okiro, originally from Ogwumankwu village in Egbema, Imo State, is reported to have enrolled in the Nigeria Police Force under Rivers State’s quota during the post-Biafra war era. This dual identity has fueled debates regarding his eligibility to contest the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Presidential election during Rivers State’s turn in 2025.
The OYC stated that in 2021, when it was Imo State’s turn to produce the Ohanaeze President General, Okiro actively participated in meetings alongside other Imo State candidates. His participation at that time, the OYC argues, solidifies his identity as an indigene of Imo State.
The group accused certain political actors of exploiting Okiro’s professional affiliations to sow disunity among the Igbo people. According to the OYC, these “political scavengers” are pressuring Okiro to abandon his principles, a move the group believes could tarnish his integrity and undermine the values of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo organization.
“We are aware of the individuals, both internal and external, who are promoting Mike Okiro’s candidacy for the presidency of Ohanaeze Ndigbo. These opportunistic politicians must desist from their divisive agenda against Ndigbo,” the statement r
The OYC emphasized that Ohanaeze Ndigbo is akin to an Ogbako Umunna (village meeting) and should uphold the principles of inclusivity and fairness. The group called on Igbo elders and leaders to consider the long-term implications of their actions, cautioning that any misstep could deepen divisions among the younger Igbo generation.
“Those advocating for Chief Mike Okiro’s candidacy are indeed posing a substantial threat to Igbo unity. The fallout from this crisis will last for a hundred years and have devastating social and political consequences,” the statement warned.
As of the time of this report, Chief Mike Okiro has not publicly declared his intention to contest for the position. The OYC urged him to consider the broader implications of his potential candidacy and to resist any unconstitutional imposition by external forces.
The group concluded by reaffirming its commitment to protecting the unity and identity of the Igbo people, warning that any attempt to impose Okiro’s candidacy unconstitutionally would face staunch resistance.
