Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, has declared its intention to become fully involved in national politics, with specific focus on the upcoming 2027 general elections.
The announcement came following the election of Chief Emeka Egwuonwu as President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Cross River State for a four-year term. The election took place in Ikom, central Cross River State.
In his acceptance speech, Egwuonwu emphasized that his election marks a significant shift in the group's approach to politics. "We will be fully and actively involved in politics, starting from the 2027 national elections," he stated. "Our active participation in politics will be part of efforts to ensure our people reap the dividends of good governance."
New Direction for Igbo Political Engagement
Egwuonwu made it clear that under his leadership, Ohanaeze Ndigbo would no longer engage in "armchair politics" but would instead mobilize the Igbo community to prioritize their interests both in Cross River State and at the national level.
"It is not going to be business as usual. I am going to pilot the affairs of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Cross River with all I have in me," he declared. "We're determined to make a difference by advancing Igbo people in every sphere both at home and abroad."
The newly elected president also pledged to work collaboratively with the state government to achieve greater success for the Igbo community.
Government Support and Collaboration
Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu congratulated Egwuonwu on his emergence as the leader of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in the state. The governor, represented by his Special Adviser on Non-Indigene Affairs, Mazi Okey Maduekwe, assured the group of his government's readiness to support Egwuonwu's efforts at unifying the organization.
"You can see that the Igbos are happy here in Cross River, and as I have supported them. They have also been very supportive of my government," the governor noted, adding that his administration has provided a conducive and secure environment for investment and business to flourish.
This development signals a potential shift in Nigeria's political landscape as the influential Igbo socio-cultural group positions itself for more direct involvement in the country's electoral processes ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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