November 10, (THEWILL) – A leadership crisis may be brewing within the Southeast’s apex socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, as stakeholders debate over who will succeed the late Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.
Iwuanyanwu was laid to rest on November 1, 2024, in his hometown of Atta, Ikeduru Local Council, Imo State.
The funeral brought together political heavyweights and dignitaries from across Nigeria to pay their final respects to the leader, who passed away at 82.
Iwuanyanwu took over the reins of the group following the tenure of his predecessor, Prof. George Obiozor, who had been inaugurated on May 1, 2023. Obiozor’s leadership lasted a brief thirteen months before he passed away, and Iwuanyanwu’s sudden death has once again opened up questions about succession within the organization.
Iwuanyanwu’s term would have concluded in January 2025, had he lived, but his passing has accelerated discussions over the leadership position.
Currently, prominent figures from Imo, Delta, Rivers, Abia, and Ebonyi states are reportedly making intense efforts to influence the selection process, as Ohanaeze Ndigbo prepares to elect a new leader, possibly as early as January.
Sources close to the organisation hint at internal maneuverings, with reports of possible constitutional amendments being discussed among members.
The amendments could impact the election process, as factions within Ohanaeze Ndigbo vie for influence and positioning in what is expected to be a competitive leadership contest.
