In a strong rebuke reverberating across Igboland, the Ohanaeze Progressive Council (OPC) has unequivocally disowned and condemned the recent controversial statement issued by the self-proclaimed Ohanaeze Youth Council (OYC). The OYC's declaration branding the respected South-East Forum of Former Governors as “persona non grata” in Igboland has been met with outrage by the OPC, labeling it as profoundly reckless, ill-advised, and deeply disrespectful.
Speaking from a position of profound concern for Igbo traditions, Comrade Ugo Benjamin, the National President of the Ohanaeze Progressive Council, minced no words. In an official press statement, Benjamin characterized the OYC’s audacious action as nothing less than “an act of shameless youthful arrogance and cultural sacrilege that has no place in the dignified traditions of Ndigbo.”
“This is not how Igbo people behave; it fundamentally misrepresents our cherished values,” Comrade Benjamin asserted with emphasis. He continued, “In Igboland, the reverence for elders, established leaders, and esteemed statesmen is not merely an option—it is a sacred, inviolable cornerstone of our societal fabric. To disregard this is to spit on the very face of Igbo culture and tradition.”
The OPC leader passionately defended the former governors, highlighting their immense contributions: “These elders are accomplished sons of the soil, individuals who have served our people with unwavering distinction, bringing progress and dignity to our region.” He scorned the OYC’s attempt to ostracize them, stating, “For a fringe group of loud-mouthed youths to suddenly wake up and declare them outcasts is not only utterly laughable but a disgusting display of disrespect that undermines everything Ndigbo stand for.”
Strategic Patriotism, Not Betrayal
Comrade Benjamin lavished praise upon the targeted leaders, hailing them as “visionary statesmen who have consistently placed the collective interest of Ndigbo above any personal ambition or fleeting political gain.” He underscored their enduring commitment by detailing their robust developmental legacies, their proven track records in governance, and their unwavering dedication to the South-East long after leaving public office.
“These are men of courage and intelligence who have relentlessly fought for Igbo interests at the national level,” Benjamin affirmed. Addressing the contentious point of their political alignment, he clarified, “Their recent decision to endorse President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term is not an act of betrayal; rather, it is a profoundly strategic act of patriotism of the highest order.”
He elaborated on this strategy, explaining, “It represents a bold and calculated move designed to secure the future prosperity and inclusion of our region through constructive engagement, robust development initiatives, and political integration, rather than the childish confrontation and self-imposed isolation so recklessly peddled by the OYC.”
Tinubu: A Transformative Leader for the South-East
The OPC leader went on to commend President Bola Tinubu, describing him as a “transformative leader, a unifier, and a visionary whose Renewed Hope Agenda is already delivering tangible dividends across all corners of Nigeria.” He argued that the South-East leaders who have aligned with the President possess a foresight that many of the “short-sighted youths” currently lack.
“They understand that the true path to effectively addressing historical marginalization is not paved with endless protests and isolationist rhetoric, but through strategic alliances with a President who genuinely respects competence, rewards loyalty, and is committed to national development,” Benjamin declared. “Their support is unequivocally in the best interest of Ndigbo, and history, in its impartial judgment, will undoubtedly vindicate their courageous stance.”
Accusations of Mischief and External Sponsorship
Comrade Benjamin did not shy away from levelling severe accusations against the OYC, alleging their actions are motivated by “mischief, a desperate hunger for cheap relevance, and potentially external sponsorship” aimed at creating disunity within the South-East ahead of the crucial 2027 general elections.
He dismissed the credibility of the youth group, stating pointedly, “These so-called youth leaders possess no electoral value, command no grassroots following, and exhibit zero respect for the profound wisdom of our elders.” He concluded by firmly asserting, “Their disgraceful statement is nothing short of political hooliganism and a cynical attempt to blackmail respected leaders who have steadfastly refused to be manipulated as tools for selfish, ulterior agendas. We reject it in its entirety. We stand firmly with our leaders, and we urge all well-meaning Ndigbo to do the same.”
Call for Unity and Responsible Leadership
Issuing a stern warning, Comrade Benjamin emphasized that any further attempts to ostracize or disrespect these revered leaders would be met with staunch resistance from the vast majority of progressive Igbo youths and elders who prioritize unity, respect, and progress over empty, divisive noise-making.
“The Ohanaeze Progressive Council champions responsible youth leadership that uplifts and builds, rather than one that seeks to destroy and divide,” he stated. “We emphatically call on all Igbo sons and daughters to unequivocally ignore the divisive rantings of the OYC. Instead, we implore them to rally behind the true statesmen who are tirelessly working for the genuine interest of Ala Igbo within the broader Nigerian project, under the capable and unifying leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”