The recent push for a Rivers State Igbo candidate to assume the leadership of Ohaneze Ndigbo has ignited passionate debates about fairness, inclusion, and the true meaning of unity within the Igbo socio-cultural landscape. At the center of this contention lies the call for authentic representation of Rivers Igbo, a historically marginalized group whose identity has been shaped by decades of political maneuvering, cultural struggles, and survival instincts. Yet, rather than embracing the opportunity for reconciliation and reintegration, certain political actors appear to be playing games that threaten to reopen old wounds and mirror divisive sentiments akin to the historic Eyo Ita controversy.
The Case Against Mike Okiro as a “Rivers Igbo” Representative
The suggestion of former Inspector General of Police Mike Okiro as a “Rivers Igbo” candidate for Ohaneze leadership highlights the challenges of this pivotal moment. For all intents and purposes, Okiro is a full-fledged Egbema man of Imo State origin, not a true Rivers Igbo representative. Those fronting his candidacy are not advancing unity but engaging in politics that reinforce historical grievances. Such actions give the impression that the core Igbo leadership still harbors a superiority complex, unwilling to fully open the leadership space to their Rivers brothers and sisters.
It is no secret that Rivers Igbo have, at various points, distanced themselves from their Igbo identity. This denial was often born out of survival rather than genuine disassociation. After the Nigerian Civil War, Rivers Igbo sought self-preservation in a political environment where being identified as Igbo could mean losing property, jobs, or political relevance. The Eyo Ita sentiments of the early years of Nigeria’s independence—a fear that the “core Igbo” would dominate others and reduce them to second-class citizens—also played a role in shaping the perceptions of Rivers Igbo.
If we are truly committed to reintegrating Rivers Igbo into the fold, we must go beyond surface-level gestures and tokenism. Imposing a candidate like Mike Okiro, who does not authentically represent Rivers Igbo, sends a clear message: the core Igbo leadership is unwilling to relinquish control and is still playing politics that prioritizes power retention over genuine unity.
Rewriting History: The Roots of Rivers Igbo Identity Struggles
The denial of “Igboness” by certain groups in Rivers State is deeply rooted in historical and political realities. When Rivers State was created from the former Eastern Region in 1967, the region’s diversity became a tool for political manipulation. The Ikwerre, Etche, Ndoni, and other groups were encouraged to assert separate identities to undermine Igbo unity.
After the civil war, many Rivers Igbo found themselves navigating a hostile environment. To reclaim abandoned property or avoid discrimination, they downplayed or outright denied their Igbo identity. This survival strategy was reinforced by political leaders in Rivers State who saw benefits in creating a distinct identity to access derivation funds and political appointments. Over time, cultural distinctions were exaggerated, and narratives of historical autonomy emerged to justify these divisions.
However, the truth remains: the Rivers Igbo are Igbo by heritage, language, and culture. Their denial of this identity was not a rejection of their roots but a pragmatic response to political and social pressures. Recognizing this nuance is essential if we are to rebuild bridges and foster genuine unity.
A Call for True Reconciliation
If Ohaneze Ndigbo is to live up to its mission of representing all Igbos, it must embrace a leadership model that reflects inclusivity and equity. Allowing the Rivers State chapter of Ohaneze to present its own candidate, rather than imposing one on them, is the first step toward healing historical wounds. Anything less would reinforce the perception that Rivers Igbo are still regarded as second-class members of the Igbo family.
Bringing in a candidate who is a true product of Rivers Igbo aspirations, rather than a political pawn of the core Igbo elite, would pave the way for authentic reconciliation. It would demonstrate a willingness to respect the autonomy and dignity of Rivers Igbo, fostering trust and acceptance. By contrast, imposing a candidate like Okiro risks reigniting the Eyo Ita sentiments—resentment over perceived Igbo domination and the marginalization of non-core Igbo groups.
Breaking Free from “System People”
Another critical issue in this leadership transition is the recycling of “system people” like Okiro and Okey Emuchay. These individuals are deeply entrenched in the establishment. Their candidacies represent a continuation of the status quo, one that has often diluted the struggles and aspirations of Ndi Igbo.
Ohaneze Ndigbo must break away from this cycle of compromise and embrace fresh, independent-minded leadership. The organization needs leaders who are untainted by old systems and fully committed to advancing Igbo interests without fear or favor. Recycling the same names and faces only perpetuates stagnation and weakens the organization’s ability to address the challenges facing Ndi Igbo.
The Path Forward
As the election approaches, the choice before Ohaneze Ndigbo is clear. Will it seize this opportunity to mend fences and build a more inclusive and united Igbo community? Or will it fall back into the familiar patterns of political maneuvering and exclusion that have hindered its progress for decades?
Allowing Rivers Igbo to present their own candidate is more than a symbolic gesture; it is a test of Ohaneze’s commitment to equity and unity. The organization has a chance to write a new chapter in its history, one that truly reflects the diversity and strength of Ndi Igbo. The time to act is now. Let us embrace the principles of fairness and inclusion, and in doing so, create a stronger, more united Igbo nation.
By Hon. Chimazuru Nnadi-Oforgu
“Duruebube Uzii na Abosi”
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