Ohanaeze PG: “I’ll Use My Experience, Contacts to Address Insecurity in Igboland if Elected” – Okiro

As the General Assembly of Ohanaeze Ndigbo prepares to elect a new President-General on Friday, former Inspector General of Police (IGP) and contender for the position, Mike Okiro, has highlighted his qualifications and vision for the role. Okiro, who also served as Chairman of the Police Service Commission, emphasized his commitment to addressing insecurity in Igboland, promoting cultural values, and advancing the region’s economy.

Okiro stated that his leadership experience and history of fostering inclusivity distinguish him among the five contenders for the position. Reflecting on his tenure as IGP, he noted his instrumental role in implementing the Amnesty Programme that brought peace to the Niger Delta under the administration of late President Umaru Yar’Adua. He pledged to replicate similar collaborative efforts to restore stability in the South-East, leveraging his extensive contacts and strategies.

He affirmed his readiness to work with stakeholders across Nigeria to meet the socio-cultural and security needs of Ndigbo globally, citing his past successes as evidence of his capability to tackle the challenges facing the region.

Addressing concerns about his state of origin, Okiro clarified his roots in Rivers State, distinguishing his Egbema community from similarly named areas in Imo State. He referenced his academic history at the University of Ibadan, where he served as Treasurer of the National Union of Rivers State Students, alongside notable contemporaries like Andrew Uchendu, a former senator.

Okiro expressed confidence in his prospects, noting endorsements from key Rivers State Ohanaeze Ndigbo leaders, including Chief Lucky Ekeji and Mrs. Love Chimezie Meregini, who have vouched for his eligibility as a proud indigene of Rivers State.

In a related development, the Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) has assured that the election will be peaceful. Uchenna Madu, the group’s leader, stated that measures have been put in place to ensure a smooth and secure electoral process. Madu emphasized the importance of allowing eligible candidates, including Okiro, to participate without external interference or blackmail.

He warned against any attempts to disrupt the election, reiterating that only the Ohanaeze Ndigbo screening committee has the authority to disqualify candidates. MASSOB affirmed its commitment to supporting a fair and transparent process, urging all parties to respect the electoral guidelines and maintain peace.