Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo worldwide, has announced a landmark collaboration between the South-south, Southwest, and Southeast regions of Nigeria. This alliance signifies the beginning of a unified Southern Nigeria, with influential leaders from each region joining forces to address common challenges and advocate for their communities.
In an interview with The Sun, he said that prominent figures such as Chief E.K Clark, Emmanuel Essien, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, and Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu have come together under the Ohanaeze umbrella to strengthen regional unity. Their collective effort aims to tackle issues of marginalization and foster a more inclusive and equitable Nigeria.
The group has unanimously recognized the seasoned leadership of Chief E.K Clark and Pa Ayo Adebanjo, acknowledging them as the most senior statesmen in the alliance. This gesture underscores the respect and trust these leaders command within the coalition, highlighting their pivotal role in guiding the newly formed union.
In addition to their regional alliance, they have established a Southern and Middle Belt leaders’ forum, which includes Dr. Pogu Bitrus as the representative for the Middle Belt region. Chief Edwin Clark has been authorized to speak on behalf of both Southern and Middle Belt areas, ensuring that the concerns and aspirations of these regions are effectively communicated.
Chief Iwuanyanwu emphasized the marginalization of the Igbo people and the need to address this issue through collaboration with the Southern and Middle Belt leaders’ forum. The primary goal of this alliance is to consolidate leaders from diverse regions to collectively address shared challenges and work towards a more inclusive Nigeria. In highlighting this collaboration, Chief Iwuanyanwu stressed the importance of unity in overcoming obstacles and ensuring fairness for all Nigerian citizens.
Hear him: "For the avoidance of doubt, South-south, Southwest and Southeast have formed alliances. We have formed a union of Southern Nigeria and the leaders therein are as follows, Chief E.K Clark and Emmanuel Essien (South-south), Pa Ayo Adebanjo of Afenifere (Southwest), Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, Ohanaeze (Southeast).