‘For equity and justice’ — Ohanaeze Worldwide endorses Obi for presidency

Ohanaeze Ndigbio Worldwide, an Igbo socio-cultural association, has affirmed its support for Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP).

The association is different from Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the group chaired by George Obiozor.

Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, chairman, Ohanaeze council of elders, said the forum believes supporting Obi is the right thing to do.

Speaking on Thursday at the end of the council’s finance and development committee meeting, Iwuanyanwu said a coalition involving leaders from the south-east, south-south, and middle belt will support Obi in the 2023 general election.

“Many of them still believe that it is still the turn of the Igbo, and in their wisdom, they said the presidency should be brought to the south-east,” NAN quoted him as saying.

“They have taken a common position to support Peter Obi, and of course, we the Igbo in Ohanaeze feel very happy.

“The truth is that Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide is a part of the agreement by the southern and middle belt forum to endorse the candidacy of Peter Obi.”

He said the choice to support the LP presidential candidate is anchored on the desire for equity and justice in 2023.

Iwuanyanwu added that the group is keenly watching the campaigns ahead of the 2023 presidential election and looking out for the likelihood of mishaps.

Ohanaeze Ndigbio Worldwide had earlier tackled Chukwuma Soludo, governor of Anambra, over his recent comment about Obi.

In an article published on Monday, Soludo had said Obi knows that “he can’t and won’t win” the presidential election.

Reacting in a statement on Tuesday, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, secretary-general of the association, said the group has taken Soludo before “two famous divinities and deities” over his comment.

“Ndigbo has dragged governor Chukwuma Soludo to the two famous divinities and deities (Chokoleze in Mbaise and ubiniukpabi in Arochuku) for his unreasonable public behavior,” the group said.

“He had confirmed that he is the number one enemy of the new Nigeria and was hired by an unpopular presidential candidate who is looking for Igbo politicians to pull down Obi’s popularity ahead of 2023.”