The Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) and the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) are currently in disagreement over the candidacy of former Inspector General of Police, Mike Okiro, for the position of President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.
The main point of contention between the two groups lies in the indigeneship of Okiro. While MASSOB asserts that Okiro is a true son of Rivers State and is endorsed by the Egbema ethnic nationality in Rivers and Imo States, IPOB argues that Okiro is from Imo State and therefore ineligible to contest for the position.
MASSOB, through its National Leader Uchenna Madu, emphasizes Okiro’s ties to Rivers State and his endorsement by key figures from the Egbema community. On the other hand, IPOB issued a statement warning Okiro against being misled by endorsements orchestrated by influential figures within the Imo State government.
IPOB stresses that the President-General position of Ohanaeze Ndigbo is reserved for Rivers State Igbos and cautions against attempts to disrupt Igbo unity by involving Okiro in the contest. The group vows to resist any manipulation of the election outcome that denies Rivers State Igbos their rightful opportunity.
The office of the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo became vacant following the passing of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, and the organization is currently in the process of selecting a successor. An Enugu State High Court has intervened, ordering parties involved in the election process to maintain the status quo until further rulings are made. The court has scheduled a hearing for a motion that could impact the proposed election for a new President-General.