The Rivers State chapter of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, otherwise known as (Ogbakor Ndi Igbo Na Rivers) has asked the Ijaw National Congress (INC) not to meddle n affairs of the organisation.

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The Ijaw National Congress (INC) had reacted to the communique issued by the convener of Ogbakor Ndi-Igbo na Rivers State, Livingstone Wechie.

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Recall that Uechie had issued a communique from a stakeholders meeting held on Monday 18th November 2024 in Port-Harcourt, in which he announced the preparedness of Rivers Ndi-Igbo to produce the Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s President-General.

INC in a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Ezonebi Oyakemeagbegha had warned the Ohanaeze Ndi-Igbo to steer clear of Rivers State.

The INC had declared that the Ijaws believe in one Nigeria but stated that, if the need arises to part, the Ijaws will not cede to any ethnic group, whether the Ohanaeze Ndigbo or the Afenifere, but will remain on their own.

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However, reacting to INC’s statement, a ranking member of Ọgbakọr Ndigbo na Rivers, Livingstone Wechie said, “We believe the Ijaw National Congress when they say their intent is to foster peaceful coexistence, and we share the same commitment to harmony. However, we must respectfully clarify that our demand for the presidency of Ohanaeze Ndigbo is not a matter that concerns the Ijaw nation.

“Ndigbo have no interest in encroaching on territories belonging to other groups. We have been neighbours and friends to the ijaw for centuries. They know our lands and our people as well as we know their lands and their people. Anyone who seeks to blur these clear lines is either uninformed or engaged in mischief.”

“We must always remember that Rivers State is a multicultural and multi-ethnic state, with various indigenous groups, distinct identities and kindred ties. Our historical and biological connections run deep and are not barriers to peaceful co-existence, but rather propellants for the practise of mutual respect.

“Ultimately our efforts will ensure inclusivity and shared prosperity among all ethnic nationalities in Rivers State and beyond. We believe there is indeed a brighter future for all Nigerians when we practise restraint, mutual respect and tolerance.”

Meanwhile, the former Deputy Secretary-General of Ohanaeze, Chief Uche Okwukwu, said; “The Rivers State Igbos’ aspiration to produce the next President-General of Ohanaeze Ndi-Igbo, come January 10, 2025, has received a major boost, thanks to the backing of key stakeholders who insist on upholding the constitution.

“Notable traditional rulers and members of Ime Obi Ohanaeze, including ex-Secretary Generals from Anambra, Enugu, Delta, and Ebonyi, have all lined up to confirm that Rivers will be given its constitutional right in accordance with Article 11 of Ohanaeze’s constitution, which ensures that the position of President-General is rotated amongst the seven member states, namely: Abia, Enugu, Anambra, Ebonyi, Imo, Igbo-speaking areas of Rivers and Delta States.

“There should be an intellectual discourse, a robust one, to first make it clear, and after that, a communique will be issued , establishing the right of Rivers Igbo to produce the next President-General.”

“The call for Rivers State to produce the next President-General follows the demise of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyawu, the the 11th President-General of Ohanaeze NdiIgbo, on July 25, 2024 at 81,” the statement added.