From Jude Chinedu, Enugu
A diaspora Igbo enthusiast, Basil Onwukwe, has described the upcoming January 10 national election of Ohanaeze Ndigbo as a significant opportunity for Ndigbo to elect leaders who are genuinely committed to advancing the cause of the Igbo Nation.
Onwukwe emphasized that the sanctity of Ohanaeze Ndigbo remains the only viable hope for fulfilling the socio-political aspirations of the Igbo people.
He argued that electing credible leaders into the next National Executive Council (NEC) of Ohanaeze Ndigbo would expedite the realization of the Igbo dream in Nigeria.
He further stated that the election presents a chance for Ndigbo to demonstrate their seriousness in self-determination by choosing true and experienced patriots such as Mazi Chuks Ibegbu for positions in the Ohanaeze NEC.
Onwukwe made these remarks while endorsing, Chuks Ibegbu, a former spokesman and special adviser to several Ohanaeze Ndigbo President-Generals, who is now vying for the position of Deputy President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.
In his endorsement letter to Ibegbu, Onwukwe wrote: “My brother Chukwudi, I have great respect for you and fully support your political aspirations because I believe in your unwavering commitment to our people, Ndi Igbo.
“I encourage you to design policies that address persistent challenges, particularly the issue of individuals undermining our efforts, the so-called ‘Jona’ in the boat of Ndigbo.
“Your manifesto, centered on ‘Akurue Ulo,’ resonates deeply. It is crucial to not only understand why it is difficult to attract investment in Igboland but also to confront the self-serving policies of some Igbo governors.
“These governors, tasked with managing land and urban development, often fail to support Igbo entrepreneurs and instead act as errand boys for ethnic interests in Abuja.
“Our federal legislators also neglect critical road and infrastructure projects in Igboland, prioritizing their allowances over their constituencies’ needs.
“In this struggle for equity and justice in Nigeria, our only true voice remains Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. Those in power have tried to silence him at every turn. When leaders are afraid to demand the rights of their people, it becomes evident that they are compromised, representing only their interests.
“However, the time for accountability is near for those misappropriating public funds. As children of Chukwu Okike Abiama, the time of judgment is here.”
Onwukwe called on Ndigbo to seize this opportunity to elect leaders with the vision, courage, and integrity required to lead the Igbo Nation to its rightful place in Nigeria and beyond.