Former Inspector General of Police, Mike Okiro, has officially withdrawn from the race for the President General position of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide following a court ruling from the Enugu State High Court.
Okiro made the announcement on Thursday evening during a briefing in Enugu, stating that the court’s interim order barring him from contesting in the election scheduled for 10th January 2015 was the reason for his withdrawal.
He explained, “I have been made aware of the Enugu State High Court’s interim order, which regrettably restrains me from contesting the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide Presidency General Election tomorrow.
- Shocking Scandal: 10 EFCC Officers Arrested for Stealing Operational Items!
- Viral video: Female Prison Officer Jailed for having Sex with Inmate
“The court order, based on alleged non-indigene status, contradicts verifiable facts. It is unfortunate that the court did not invite me or hear from me before issuing that objectionable order, which I only became aware of through the media. The facts are: (a) I am from Egbema in Rivers State, as evidenced by my National Population Commission Attestation of Birth. (b) My Traditional Ruler, the Nzeobi of Egbema, has also confirmed my indigene status in Rivers State. (c) I have authored many books where my roots in Rivers State are clearly acknowledged. A prime example is my bestseller, Nigeria: The Restructuring ‘Controversy’. (d) Page 6 of my biography, written by Mr. Dozie Okebalama, also mentions my Rivers State indigene status. (e) I have represented Rivers State at numerous Imeobi meetings, where my name was included in the attendance list. (f) As a student at the University of Ibadan, I was an active member of the Rivers State Students’ Association, elected Treasurer, alongside Distinguished Senator Andrew Uchendu as Secretary. (g) I represented Rivers State during meetings of the South-South People’s Assembly, led by Chief Edwin Clark, where notable figures such as Prof. Pat Utomi represented Delta State. My records and credentials stand as testament to my claims.”
Okiro expressed his respect for the rule of law, adding, “As an Igbo man and elder statesman of Rivers State extraction, which position has been zoned to me by the electoral committee, I believe in the rule of law and shall abide by the court’s order.
“My obedience to court orders, no matter how unfavourable, demonstrates our commitment to democracy. The rule of law safeguards our society, and we must uphold it. Our democratic values are non-negotiable. Together, we will emerge stronger.”
He further pledged not to participate in any election pending the final resolution of the case before Honourable Justice N.R Oji of the Enugu State High Court, which issued the restraining order.
Okiro clarified, “Although I have not been formally served with the suit/processes or order, my commitment to law and order remains unwavering, despite the fact that the reliefs granted in the order against me appear to undermine my fundamental rights as guaranteed in Chapter IV of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
“My distinguished career as Nigeria’s Inspector General of Police underscores my dedication to justice and what is noble. I have instructed my lawyers at the Chambers of Eze Okafor & Co to pursue the case to its logical conclusion, ensuring that those spreading hate and lawlessness are held accountable in line with the law.
“As provided by our constitution, I demand to be heard, and I am confident the court will uphold the principles of natural justice in addressing this case. We have not lost faith in our judicial system.”
He appealed for unity among his supporters, urging his immediate community in Egbema, as well as the wider Igbo-speaking population in Rivers State, to stand firm behind the rule of law during this period. He also thanked Governor Siminialayi Fubara for his unwavering support.
Okiro concluded by reaffirming his commitment to the ideals of Ohanaeze Ndigbo: “Ohanaeze Ndigbo embodies Igbo unity, progress, and peaceful coexistence. Our organisation promotes harmony among Igbos worldwide. Let’s prioritise peace and unity. Justice shall prevail; Igbo unity and progress remain our guiding principles.”
