JUST IN: Ohanaeze Slams Fake Report on Obi 2027 Exit

The apex socio-cultural organization representing the Igbo people, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has firmly rejected recent social media reports claiming it advised Mr. Peter Obi to withdraw from the 2027 presidential election.

Additionally, the group dismissed allegations that it urged leaders from northern Nigeria to withhold their support for Obi’s presidential bid.

In a strongly worded statement released on Tuesday, Ohanaeze’s National Publicity Secretary, Dr. Ezechi Chukwu, condemned the rumors as deliberate misinformation.

He characterized them as actions of “street urchins” intent on sowing confusion and discord within the Igbo community and the broader Nigerian political landscape.

The statement reads: “Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has been made aware of a misleading narrative circulating online, alleging that the organization warned Mr. Peter Obi against contesting the 2027 presidential election.

The falsehood extends to claims that Ohanaeze cautioned northern leaders against supporting his candidacy.

We categorically deny these allegations and affirm that no such pronouncements have emanated from this respected body.”

Dr. Chukwu described the source of the rumors as a “clandestine group of street urchins” masquerading under the Ohanaeze brand.

He claims it is in a bid to exploit the organization’s reputation for personal and political gains. He disparaged this faction as operating with “phantom” identities and engaging in mischievous acts that undermine the integrity of the authentic Ohanaeze Ndigbo.

The statement also highlighted the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide.

It cited the stewardship of Senator John Azuta Mbata as President-General, Prince Okey Nwadinobi as Deputy President-General, and Emeka Sibeudu as Secretary-General.

It underscored their reputations as credible and respected figures within the Igbo nation and the wider Nigerian society, reinforcing the assertion that such a baseless and “ignominious” statement could not have come from the official body.

Reaffirming its commitment to the Igbo people’s welfare and Nigeria’s overall national unity, Ohanaeze stressed its principled stance on fairness, justice, and equitable development.

The organization reiterated its apolitical structure, clarifying that it has neither endorsed any presidential candidate for the 2027 elections nor taken a partisan position that would influence the political process.

“Our mandate is to champion the cultural, social, and political interests of the Igbo nation, while promoting harmony and inclusive development across Nigeria,” the statement noted. “

As such, we cannot be seen to engage in partisan politics or manipulate electoral outcomes.

We call on all citizens, the media, and political actors to disregard any statements purportedly from Ohanaeze that seek to mislead or cause division.”

In closing, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide appealed to the public to be discerning in accepting information, urging them to verify facts and avoid spreading unsubstantiated claims.

The group warned against “incurable mercenaries” who exploit the organization’s name.

This they claim, is done to fulfill the “pecuniary bidding” of political interests and stressed its readiness to take corrective measures to protect its integrity.

The false reports emerged amid rising political interest around Peter Obi, a former governor of Anambra State and a prominent figure in Nigerian politics.

Obi is widely regarded as a potential contender in the 2027 presidential elections.

His candidacy has attracted significant attention, not only from his supporters but also from various political factions across Nigeria’s diverse socio-political landscape.

The clarity from Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide on this matter reflects a broader pattern of vigilance by traditional and cultural institutions in Nigeria to remain neutral arbiters in electoral processes, standing against misinformation that could inflame communal tensions or unduly influence political outcomes.

As Nigeria prepares for the 2027 elections, the role of such socio-cultural organizations is gaining recognition for fostering peaceful political engagement and encouraging dialogue based on facts and mutual respect.

Ohanaeze’s firm rejection of misleading narratives enhances its stature as a custodian of Igbo interests and a promoter of national cohesion.

Summary:
Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has categorically denied allegations suggesting it advised Peter Obi to drop out of the 2027 presidential race or asked northern leaders not to support him.

The group described the reports as misinformation spread by unscrupulous individuals impersonating the organization for political gain.

Reinforcing its apolitical stance, Ohanaeze maintains its dedication to promoting justice, equity, and unity, calling on the public and media to reject the false claims and support peaceful electoral conduct.

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