Ohanaeze Ndigbo President General candidate Mike Okiro, a former Inspector General of Police, has resigned from the contest.
At a conference on Thursday evening in Enugu, Okiro made the news.
He explained his decision to withdraw by pointing to a ruling from the Enugu State High Court that prohibited him from running for office.
Jan. 10, 2025 is the date of the election.
He stated: “I sadly am unable to run in tomorrow’s Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide Presidency General Election due to the interim ruling issued by the Enugu State High Court.
“The court order contradicts verifiable facts because it is based on supposed non-indigene status. It is regrettable that the court did not contact me or extend an invitation before to issuing that annoying order, which I learned about via the press. The facts are (a) that my National Population Commission Attestation of Birth indicates that I am from Egbema in Rivers State. (a) My indigenous status in Rivers State has also been validated by my Traditional Ruler, the Nzeobi of Egbema. (c) In the author’s column of several of my books, I mention that I am an indigenous person from Rivers State. Nigeria: The Restructuring ‘Controversy,’ my best-selling book, serves as a good illustration. (d) Mr. Dozie Okebalama’s biography of myself, page 6, also demonstrates my Rivers ancestry. (f) I have represented Rivers State at numerous Imeobi meetings, as listed in the Secretary-General’s attendance list. (f) I was a member of the Rivers State Students’ Association while I was a student at the University of Ibadan. I was elected Treasurer, and Andrew Uchendu, a distinguished senator now, was elected Secretary. (g) During the South-South People’s Assembly meetings, I represented Rivers State, while Prof. Pat Utomi, another Great Nigerian, represented Delta State. Chief Edwin Clark was our esteemed leader at the time. My credentials and record speak for themselves.
“I believe in the rule of law and will obey the court’s order as an Igbo guy and elder statesman of Rivers State Extraction, which the electoral committee has designated to that position.
“My adherence to court orders, regardless of how unfavorable, shows our dedication to democracy.” I support the values of the rule of law because they guarantee our progress as a society.
“The rule of law protects our society; its values must be respected, our democratic ideals cannot be compromised, and we will be stronger as a team.” Our commitment to justice, due process, and the rule of law will serve as our defense.
“I shall abstain from voting until the matter before Hon. Justice N.R. Oji of the Enugu State High Court, which issued the restraining order, is resolved.
“Even though the reliefs granted in the order against me seem to undermine my fundamental right guaranteed in Chapter IV of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), although I have not been formally served with the suit/processes or order, my commitment to law and order remains unwavering.”
“My outstanding career as Inspector General of Police of Nigeria demonstrates my commitment to justice and morality.
To guarantee that those who propagate hatred and lawlessness are held accountable in accordance with our enabling laws, I have directed my attorneys, Chambers of Eze Okafor & Co., to see the case through to its logical conclusion.
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“I demand that I be heard in accordance with our constitution, and I have no doubt that the court will make sure that the twin pillars of natural justice are upheld when deciding the case. There is still hope in our legal system.
“I implore the members of my immediate community, the Igbo-speaking population of Rivers state, who are firmly in my corner, as well as all of my supporters in Imo, Abia, Ebonyi, Enugu, Anambra, and Delta, to uphold the rule of law during this contest.”
“The unity and advancement of Ohanaeze Ndigbo are strengthened by our resolve. We’ll work together to overcome this obstacle.
“My Governor, His Excellency, Siminialayi Fubara GSSRS, is much appreciated for his constant support, which should not be taken for granted. My admiration for Your Excellency’s leadership is genuine.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo is the embodiment of Igbo harmony, advancement, and goodwill. Our group works to foster peace among Igbos around the world. Let’s put peace and harmony first.
“I reiterate my dedication to the Ohanaeze Ndigbo ideals of peace, growth, and unity in Igbo territory.
“Justice shall prevail; Igbo unity and progress remain our guiding principles.
“I assure all of you that we shall overcome this minor setback as our democratic values are non-negotiable.”
