BREAKING NEWS: Chief Dr. Jackson N.E. Omenazu Delivers Inaugural Speech as Ohanaeze Ndigbo President General
On Sunday, January 5, 2025, Chief Dr. Jackson N.E. Omenazu was officially inaugurated as the new President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo during a historic event held in Enugu State. In his acceptance and inaugural speech, he emphasized the restoration of justice, unity, and the advancement of Igbo interests.
Speaking passionately, Chief Omenazu described his election as a significant milestone for the indigenous Igbo people of Rivers State. He stated that his emergence as President General reverses decades of perceived injustices and reaffirms the identity of the Igbos in Rivers State as integral to the larger Igbo nation.
“This is a historical event,” Omenazu said. “We have recovered our Igbo national identity. This marks the end of the politics of convenience that placed us at the fringes of the Niger.”
Key Highlights from the Speech:
1. Independence of Ohanaeze Ndigbo:
Chief Omenazu pledged to keep the organization independent of political interference. He called for Ohanaeze to be funded by contributions from Igbo sons and daughters worldwide, ensuring its focus remains on serving the interests of the Igbo people.
2. Immediate Agenda:
Insecurity: The President General committed to tackling insecurity in the Southeast and called for the immediate release of Nnamdi Kanu, describing him as a symbol of justice and self-determination.
Census Representation: He urged the inclusion of ethnicity and religion in the upcoming 2025 census.
Demilitarization: Omenazu demanded the removal of excessive military checkpoints in the Southeast, advocating for a peaceful and secure homeland.
3. Restructuring and State Creation:
Chief Omenazu called for a Sovereign National Conference to draft a new Constitution reflecting Nigeria’s ethnic diversity. He also advocated for the creation of additional states, including Anioma State, Aba State, and Port Harcourt State, to enhance representation and development.
4. Economic Development:
He announced plans for the AKU RUO ULO Industrial Business Hub, aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and investment in Igboland. Committees on legal affairs, education, security, political assessment, and diaspora assistance were also unveiled to streamline the administration.
5. Eastern Economic Corridor:
In a message to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Chief Omenazu emphasized the need for the development of the Eastern Economic Corridor. He called for the dredging of the Calabar Seaport, operationalization of Port Harcourt Wharf, development of the Azumiri Deep Blue Sea Port, and reconstruction of critical railway lines.
A Vision of Unity and Progress:
The newly elected President General expressed his commitment to repositioning Igboland and restoring confidence in Ohanaeze Ndigbo. He invited collaboration with all stakeholders, including former contestants, to achieve a unified and progressive vision for the Igbo people.
“This administration embraces unity and purpose. Together, we will march forward to a brighter future for the Igbo nation,” he concluded.
Chief Dr. Jackson Omenazu’s leadership signals a new era for Ohanaeze Ndigbo, with renewed hope for addressing long-standing challenges and advancing the interests of the Igbo people worldwide.
