Hon. Robert Obasi, Secretary General of Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo, Lagos State Chapter, has clarified that there are no factions within the organization in Lagos. He stated this in an interview, reaffirming his position and debunking claims of a rival faction led by Chief Leonard Okafor, alias Oba Ojoto. Obasi emphasized that Ohanaeze is a sociocultural organization, not a political association, aimed at promoting Igbo culture and unity among Ndigbo residents in Lagos.
Obasi shared his background, revealing that he is a politician, businessman, and Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (FCIPS) and the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (FNIS). He was elected as Secretary General in 2022, a position zoned for Ebonyi State, his state of origin. Obasi worked closely with former President of Ohanaeze Lagos State, High Chief Solomon Aguene Ogbonna, before contesting for the Secretary General position.
The controversy surrounding Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo Lagos State Chapter began with a disputed election that brought Oba Ojoto to the fore. Obasi explained that the election was null and void, as it was conducted without the presence of representatives from the National Elections Committee (NEC) of Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo Worldwide. He cited a court pronouncement on March 30, 2026, which ordered the maintenance of the status quo, making the April 6, 2026, election invalid.
According to Obasi, the President General of Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo Worldwide, Senator John Azuta-Mbata, has recognized him as the Secretary General and takes instructions from him. In contrast, Oba Ojoto and his group are not recognized by Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo Worldwide. Obasi questioned Oba Ojoto's legitimacy, stating that he never attended meetings convened by the President General and was not allowed to enter Ohanaeze premises in Enugu.
Obasi disclosed that Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo has achieved its objectives, despite challenges. The organization has been discharging its responsibilities, promoting Igbo culture and unity among its members. He clarified that Ohanaeze is not a political organization, but rather a sociocultural one, with members across various political parties, including APC, APGA, and PDP.
The proscription of the Eze Ndigbo title in diaspora is another issue that Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo has addressed. Obasi did not provide further details but emphasized that the organization is committed to upholding its constitution and promoting the Igbo culture. He also mentioned that Ohanaeze has an organogram that may not be easily understood by non-members.
In conclusion, Obasi reiterated that there are no factions in Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo Lagos State Chapter, and the organization remains committed to its sociocultural objectives. The disputed election and legitimacy of Oba Ojoto's leadership remain unresolved, with Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo Worldwide yet to make a final pronouncement on the matter.
Key points
- Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo Lagos State Chapter has no factions, says Secretary General, Hon. Robert Obasi.
- Disputed election led to a rival faction, but Obasi insists it was null and void.
- Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo is a sociocultural organization, not a political association.
