Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has distanced itself from a purported statement circulating in parts of the media, describing it as false and unauthorised, particularly on issues relating to the release of Nnamdi Kanu and the 2027 presidential election.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by its National Publicity Secretary, Ezechi Chukwu, the apex Igbo socio-cultural body said the publication did not emanate from its leadership and does not reflect its position.
“We wish to state unequivocally that the said publication did not emanate from Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide and does not reflect the views, position, or authority of the organisation as presently constituted under the leadership of Distinguished Senator Azuta Mbata, President General,” the statement read.
The group reiterated its non-partisan stance, stressing that it has not taken any position on the 2027 presidential election.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide remains a non-partisan socio-cultural body and is not a political party. Accordingly, the organisation has not taken any position on the 2027 presidential election or aligned itself with any political agenda or candidate,” it stated.
On the issue of Nnamdi Kanu, the organisation maintained that its call for his release remains consistent and is not tied to politics.
“For the avoidance of doubt, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has consistently and responsibly appealed to the Federal Government for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and will continue to do so in the overall interest of justice, peace and national cohesion. At no time has the organisation linked this advocacy to electoral considerations or political negotiations,” Chukwu said.
The group also condemned individuals it described as impostors issuing statements in its name.
“We strongly condemn the activities of these individuals and impostors who for self-serving purposes seek to mislead the public by issuing unauthorized statements in the name of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide… Such actions are deceptive, irresponsible and unacceptable,” the statement added.
Ohanaeze further clarified that Prince Okey Nwadinobi is the duly recognised Deputy President General, urging the public to disregard anyone falsely claiming the position.
“The public is hereby advised to disregard any individual falsely parading himself in that capacity and to remain vigilant against misinformation,” it said.
It also warned against politicising Kanu’s detention, describing such actions as dangerous and inappropriate.
“Furthermore, we caution all those engaging in the politicisation of Nnamdi Kanu’s name and circumstance to desist immediately. The issues surrounding his detention are sensitive and should not be exploited for personal relevance or political gain,” the statement warned.
The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to promoting the unity, welfare, and legitimate interests of Ndigbo within a just and equitable Nigeria.
