The Legal Adviser of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos State, Barr. Nkechi Agubuzor, has said that the recent clarification from the Global Executive Council, GEC, of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has brought clarity and restored confidence among members in Lagos.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Barr. Agubuzor explained that the intervention of the national leadership led by President General, Senator Azuta Mbata, has addressed lingering questions about the structure and leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Lagos and the South West.
According to Barr. Agubuzor, the GEC in its statement made three key clarifications. First, she said the council stated that the position of “South West Coordinator” does not exist in the constitution of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, either in the past or present versions.
Second, Barr. Agubuzor noted that the GEC clarified that Chief Evarest Ozonweke was not appointed to any such position. She added that the council further stated that any action, directive, or decision taken in that purported capacity is not recognized by the national body.
Third, Barr. Agubuzor said the GEC reaffirmed the legitimacy of the current executive of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos State under the leadership of Chief Leo Okafor, who is also known as Oba Ojoto.
“The declaration by Senator Azuta Mbata and the members of the GEC has helped to settle issues that have affected the progress of our organization in Lagos,” Barr. Agubuzor said.
She continued, “For some time, there has been confusion about roles and authority. This clarification now gives us a clear path to focus on our core mandate of cultural preservation, unity, and welfare of Ndigbo in Lagos.”
Barr. Agubuzor, who has served as Legal Adviser for the Lagos chapter, said the leadership of Oba Ojoto remains committed to building bridges and ensuring that all members are carried along.
She called on members to support the current executive and avoid actions that could undermine the unity of Ndigbo in Lagos. “Our strength is in our unity. We must now put the past behind us and work together for the good of our people,” she stated.
According to Barr. Agubuzor, the Lagos executive under Oba Ojoto will prioritize programmes that promote Igbo language, culture, and economic empowerment for Ndigbo residing in Lagos State. She added that the executive will also work closely with other Igbo associations and community leaders to ensure effective representation.
Barr. Agubuzor expressed appreciation to Senator Azuta Mbata and the entire GEC for their timely intervention. “We thank the President General and the GEC for listening and for taking decisive steps. This shows that the national body is interested in peace and progress at the state level,” she said.
She concluded by urging all stakeholders to align with the national leadership and support efforts aimed at strengthening Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Lagos for the benefit of present and future generations.