By Uchenna Eletuo
The Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Lagos State chapter, on Tuesday called for peace and unity within the fold to enable it advance the cause of the group.
The Acting President of the group, Chief Linus Igbudu, made the call while addressing newsmen in Lagos.
Ọhanaeze Ndigbo is an Igbo socio-cultural organisation in Nigeria.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the group for sometime, has been experiencing leadership crisis that has retarded its functions and progress to the detriment of the people it serves.
Speaking, Igbudu, decried the crisis, calling for reconciliation, peace, unity and harmony among opposing and disgruntled members.
The acting president said that, “In light of recent leadership changes within Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos State, it is better for everyone to embrace dialogue and understanding for the sake of the younger generation of Igbo nation.
“The face-off that beclouded the group stemmed from a leadership crisis initiated by its former President, Solomon Ogbonna, who sought to extend his tenure contrary to the directives of the Group’s national leadership and the constitution by securing a contentious consent judgment.
“Ogbonna’s recent actions have significantly set back Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos State and, by extension, its national executives.
“The 2022/2026 executives of Ohanaeze Lagos, along with LGA Chairmen and key stakeholders, have engaged in extensive discussions – focused on reconciliation and healing.
“Through this commitment, we have reached high-level decisions that will not only address past grievances but also reposition Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos State on path of growth and unity.
“We recognise the importance of transparency and open communication in our mission.
“Our objective is to safeguard and promote the interests of the Ndigbo community in Lagos State in alignment with the principles of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide”, he said.
“The General Assembly reaffirm our unwavering commitment to peace, unity, constitutionalism and respect for the rule of law.
“In furtherance to reconciliation and orderly administration, a Local Organising Committee (LOC) and Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) have been constituted and awaits formal inauguration in the coming days.
“The LOC is chair by Mr Kevin Oguine, and Mrs Ada Ofegbu as the Secretary, while the TRC is Chaired by Nze John Paul-Ezenwaka, and Mr Asomugha JohnPaul as the Secretary of the Commission.
“Because of the deep rot within Ohanaeze and the bitterness amongst members, the Exco, Chairmen and key stakeholders have agreed to establish a Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC).
“This TRC, modeled after the historic process in South Africa, and our own Oputa Panel inspired by credible truth-seeking panels of global repute, will provide an open platform for all who are prepared to speak honestly and without fear.
“Those who come forward in sincerity, acknowledge their actions, and commit to genuine reconciliation will have the opportunity for forgiveness and a clean slate,” he noted
He highlighted that the LOC would work hand in hand with the Ohanaeze Worldwide National Electoral Committee for Lagos to ensure that a credible and transparent election was conducted in Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos State, in line with Ohanaeze Worldwide National constitution”
“We call on all stakeholders to embrace dialogue uphold our Constitution and work collectively towards a peaceful, transparent and credible process.
“We sincerely appreciate your support as we work together to strengthen our community and uphold the values of Ohanaeze Ndigbo” he said.(NAN) www.nannews.ng
Edited by Vivian Ihechu
