KINGSLEY EBERE
The leadership of Apex Igbo sociocultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has urged the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos State chapter led by the amiable president, Chief Solomon Aguene, to maintain unwavering support for the policies and initiatives of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
P.M.EXPRESS reports that this was stated by the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide Publicity Secretary and spokesman, Chief Chinenyeze Thompson Ohia, who also confirmed Chief Aguene as the leader of Ndigbo in Lagos State.
“It is imperative to assert unequivocally that Chief Solomon Aguene is recognized as the legitimate and elected President of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos State chapter. His mandate is not merely ceremonial; it encompasses the grave responsibility to champion the collective interests and bargaining power of Igbo residents in Lagos State, ensuring their voices resonate profoundly within the echelons of governance.”
“As custodians of the Igbo heritage, we categorically declare that any endeavour to sow seeds of division between our community and the Tinubu-Sanwo-Olu administration will be met with resolute resistance.”
“Historical evidence points to countless instances where discord among ethnic groups has led to adverse outcomes for our collective interests. The Igbo people, having established their presence and contributions throughout Lagos, will not entertain any attempts to manipulate our community against those who govern fairly and equitably.”
“In asserting the sacredness of Chief Aguene’s leadership, we applaud his commendable performance in addressing pressing issues affecting our people. His strategic interventions and advocacy have significantly advanced the interests of the Igbo within a complex urban landscape. Therefore, it is not merely prudent but essential for the Ohanaeze Lagos State chapter to remain neutral during the ongoing Lagos State House of Assembly crisis. Aligning with one faction or another would not only jeopardize our collective influence but could also compromise the strides we have made under Chief Aguene’s leadership.”
The relationship between our community and the governing bodies is not transactional; it is foundational to the social and economic fabric of Lagos. Throughout history, our strength has always been our collective unity and the wisdom to engage constructively with powers that be. President Tinubu’s administration, alongside Governor Sanwo-Olu, has opened avenues for cooperation, investment, and progress that we must capitalize on, rather than squander through shortsighted partisan affiliations.”
“Let us remember our past; history teaches us that our greatest triumphs arise from alliances that transcend individual interest. Our role is not to fracture the stability that fosters our growth but to enhance the dialogue that ensures our legacy continues to find expression in the annals of Lagos State.”
Chief Ohia called on Ohanaeze Ndigbo members in Lagos State chapter to unite under the leadership of Chief Solomon Aguene, “fortifying our resolve to engage positively with the Tinubu and Sanwo-Olu administration’s”.
“We must collectively pledge to prioritize the welfare of our community, promoting harmony over strife and collaboration over division. Igbos in Lagos have thrived amid diversity, and that flourishing spirit must prevail. Together, we possess the power to shape our destiny.” Ohia stated.
