A group, the Igbo Women Assembly (IWA), has called on the former Inspector General of Police, Mike Okiro, to withdraw from the race for President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo to promote peace and fairness in Igbo land.
The IWA emphasized that, in accordance with the rotational policy, Rivers State should produce the next President of Ohanaeze.
The group contend that If the Igbo-speaking people of Rivers State are not ready to take up the mantle, the position should be returned to Abia State.
These demands were made by the members of IWA during the inauguration of the Abia State chapter and the United Nations Mother Tongue Committee of IWA in Umuahia on Monday evening.
Addressing newsmen, the National President of IWA, Nneka Chimezie, pointed out that official records confirmed Mike Okiro’s origin is from Imo State.
“Mike Okiro is from Imo State. His elder brother is one of the Ezes in Egbema, Imo State. I think he should do the right thing and withdraw from the race,” Chimezie stated.
The IWA leader also expressed concerns about the growing militarization in the Southeast, claiming that the increased military presence was driving youths out of the region.
“The over-militarization of the South East roads and communities is pushing our youths to flee in large numbers,” she said.
Chimezie also condemned recent remarks by veteran journalist Reuben Abati, who allegedly claimed that Igbos do not sell land to people from other tribes. She warned that unless Abati retracts his statement or apologizes within 14 days, IWA would initiate legal action against him.
She raised alarm about the deteriorating health of the Igbo population, attributing it to unhealthy eating habits.
“I advise our people to embrace natural foods and avoid junk foods and practices that harm their body systems,” she advised.
Highlighting the challenges facing Igbo culture and language, Chimezie lamented the rapid decline of the Igbo language and culture. She revealed that IWA has launched Igbo language schools and is undertaking efforts aimed at cultural rediscovery to preserve the heritage.
