General News of Friday, 19 June 2026

Source: www.mynigeria.com

Ohanaeze kicks against suspension of Nnamdi Kanu as IPOB leader

IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu

The Apex Sociocultural Organisation of Ndigbo Worldwide, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has taken due cognisance of recent reports and circulating claims regarding an alleged suspension of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu from his recognised leadership standing within the Indigenous People of Biafra.

The organisation noted with concern the misinformation, tension, and apprehension generated by such reports across communities within Igboland and the diaspora, necessitating this clear and authoritative clarification.

*ON THE PURPORTED SUSPENSION*

After careful review and consultation within its constitutional mandate as an impartial cultural institution, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide stated unequivocally that:

"The alleged suspension of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is not recognized, not validated, and holds no institutional or communal legitimacy within its purview.

"The claims attributed to certain individuals or aggrieved members, including Chika Edozien and associates, are regarded as unofficial and incapable of altering established recognitions or ongoing engagements.

"Accordingly, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu remains a central and widely acknowledged leadership figure associated with the Indigenous People of Biafra, Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB)."

*COMMITMENT TO PEACE AND STABILITY IN IGBOLAND*

Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide expressed deep concern that internal disagreements within any organised structure have the potential to destabilise the fragile peace currently being enjoyed across the Southeast region.

It said for nearly eleven months, Igboland has witnessed a gradual but significant return to stability, reflected in:

Renewed agricultural activities across rural communities

Restoration of cultural festivals and traditional gatherings

Revival of commercial and economic engagements

Increased confidence from local and external investors

"These gains remain delicate and must not be undermined by avoidable internal disputes or inflammatory narratives," Ohanaez said.

*APPEAL FOR RESTRAINT AND RESPONSIBLE ENGAGEMENT*

The organisation strongly urged all stakeholders, particularly aggrieved members within Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to exercise restraint, maturity, and responsibility in handling internal matters.

Ohanaeze emphasised that:

"Dialogue remains the most viable and sustainable pathway to conflict resolution

"Internal disputes must not be allowed to escalate into public tension or communal insecurity

"All grievances should be addressed through structured engagement and peaceful reconciliation mechanism."

*ON ONGOING PEACE AND DIALOGUE EFFORTS*

Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide reiterated its continuous commitment to back-channel engagements and broader dialogue initiatives aimed at:

"Promoting unity among Igbo stakeholders.

"Supporting peaceful resolution of internal disagreements.

"Strengthening efforts toward the release and reintegration of detained pro-Biafra individuals, including the authentic leader of IPOB, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu."

The organisation underscored that ongoing divisions, if left unresolved, may jeopardise these delicate and strategic processes.

FINAL POSITION:

Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide reaffirmed that peace, unity, and collective responsibility remain the cornerstone of Igbo progress.

"The organisation will not condone any action, statement, or agitation capable of rekindling insecurity, destabilising communities, or reversing the hard-earned peace currently experienced across Igboland.

"All stakeholders are therefore urged to act with wisdom, restraint, and an unwavering commitment to unity and stability," it said.