Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo worldwide, recently announced a significant alliance between the South-south, Southwest, and Southeast regions of Nigeria. In an interview with The Sun, he stated that this collaboration represents a historic step toward unifying Southern Nigeria, with prominent leaders from each region leading the charge.
Key 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 this alliance. The group has recognized the seasoned leadership of Chief E.K Clark and Pa Ayo Adebanjo, acknowledging them as the most senior statesmen within this coalition.
In addition to forming a unified Southern Nigeria, the leaders have established a Southern and Middle Belt leaders' forum. Dr. Pogu Bitrus has been appointed to represent the Middle Belt region, and Chief Edwin Clark has been empowered to articulate the concerns and aspirations of both Southern and Middle Belt areas.
Chief Iwuanyanwu emphasized the importance of this alliance in addressing the longstanding marginalization of the Igbo people. By working collaboratively with the Southern and Middle Belt leaders' forum, he believes they can more effectively tackle shared challenges and promote a more inclusive and equitable Nigeria.
The primary objective of this coalition is to bring together leaders from diverse regions to confront common obstacles. This united front aims to foster a fairer and more inclusive society, addressing issues that have historically affected these regions.
In his remarks, Chief Iwuanyanwu highlighted the marginalization of the Igbo people and the need for a collective effort to address this issue. The formation of this alliance and the Southern and Middle Belt leaders' forum signifies a committed effort to ensure justice and equality for all regions involved.
Hear him: "We have unanimously accepted the leadership of the two oldest leaders of the group, Chief E.K Clark and Pa Ayo Adebanjo. We later formed a union of Southern and Middle Belt leaders’ forum. The leader of Middle Belt is Dr Pogu Bitrus. By this union, Chief Edwin Clark is authorised to speak on any part of Southern and Middle Belt of Nigeria."