Retired Inspector General of Police and leading candidate for the position of Ohanaeze Ndigbo President General, Sir Mike Okiro, has announced his withdrawal from tomorrow’s election.
In a press statement issued to newsmen in Enugu on Thursday night, Chief Okiro cited an existing court order that bars him from participating in the election.
In his statement, the former police chief expressed his disappointment, stating: “The court order, which is based on an alleged non-indigene status, contradicts verifiable facts. It is unfortunate that I was neither invited nor heard before this objectionable order was issued, which I learned about through the media. The facts are as follows: (a) I am from Egbema in Rivers State, as proven by my National Population Commission Attestation of Birth. (b) My Traditional Ruler, the Nzeobi of Egbema, has confirmed my status as a native of Rivers State. (c) In my numerous published works, my indigene status of Rivers State is explicitly stated in the author’s column, notably in my bestseller, *Nigeria: The Restructuring ‘Controversy*. (d) Page 6 of my biography, written by Mr. Dozie Okebalama, also affirms my Rivers ancestry. (e) I have participated in numerous Imeobi meetings, representing Rivers State, as documented in the Secretary-General’s attendance list. (f) During my time at the University of Ibadan, I was a member of the Rivers State Students’ Association, where I served as Treasurer while the distinguished Senator Andrew Uchendu was elected Secretary. (g) I represented Rivers State at the South-South People’s Assembly, alongside our respected leader, Chief Edwin Clark, with Prof. Pat Utomi representing Delta State. My records and credentials speak for themselves.”
Okiro reiterated his commitment to the rule of law, stating, “As an Igbo man and elder statesman from Rivers State, a position that has been zoned to me by the electoral committee, I respect the court’s order. My obedience to court orders, regardless of their nature, reflects our commitment to democracy. I believe the principles of the rule of law are fundamental to our collective progress.”
While confirming that he will not participate in the election pending the resolution of the case, he urged his supporters to remain composed. “The rule of law is the foundation of our society; its principles must be upheld, for our democratic values are non-negotiable. Together, we will emerge stronger. Our commitment to justice, due process, and the rule of law will ultimately vindicate us. I will refrain from participating in any election until the matter before Honourable Justice N.R. Oji of Enugu State High Court is resolved, as the court imposed the restraining order.”
“Although I have not been formally served with the suit or order, my dedication to law and order remains steadfast. Yet, the reliefs granted in the order against me appear to infringe upon my fundamental rights as outlined in Chapter IV of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).”
“My esteemed career as Nigeria’s Inspector General of Police highlights my commitment to justice and ethical conduct. I have instructed my legal team at Eze Okafor & Co. to pursue this case vigorously to ensure those who propagate hatred and lawlessness are held accountable in accordance with our legal framework.”
“As stipulated by our constitution, I demand to be heard, and I trust that the court will uphold the principles of natural justice in handling this case. We remain hopeful in our judicial system.”
“I call upon my immediate community, Egbema, and the broader Igbo-speaking populace of Rivers State, who stand firmly with me, along with my supporters across Imo, Abia, Ebonyi, Enugu, Anambra, and Delta to uphold the rule of law throughout this contest. Our resolve strengthens the unity and progress of Ohanaeze Ndigbo. Together, we will navigate this challenge.”
He also expressed gratitude to Governor Siminialayi Fubara for his support and reiterated his “commitment to the ideals of Ohanaeze Ndigbo—unity, progress, and peace in Igbo land,” asserting that “justice will prevail; Igbo unity and progress remain our guiding principles.”
“I assure you all that we shall overcome this minor setback, as our democratic values are non-negotiable.”