Despite the controversy, Okiro expressed his respect for the rule of law and emphasized his commitment to democratic values. “As an Igbo man and elder statesman from Rivers State, I respect the court’s order. My obedience to court orders, regardless of their nature, reflects our commitment to democracy,” he stated.
Enugu, Nigeria – Former Inspector General of Police and leading candidate for the Ohanaeze Ndigbo President General position, Sir Mike Okiro, has announced his withdrawal from the race ahead of the election scheduled for Friday.
In a press statement issued Thursday night in Enugu, Okiro cited a court order barring him from participating in the election, based on allegations questioning his indigene status. The retired police chief expressed disappointment over the situation, stating that the court order was issued without his knowledge or input.
“The court order, which is based on an alleged non-indigene status, contradicts verifiable facts,” Okiro said. “It is unfortunate that I was neither invited nor heard before this objectionable order was issued, which I learned about through the media.”
Okiro detailed his credentials to affirm his Rivers State origin, highlighting the following:
- He hails from Egbema in Rivers State, as confirmed by his National Population Commission Attestation of Birth and his traditional ruler, the Nzeobi of Egbema.
- His works, including the book Nigeria: The Restructuring ‘Controversy, and his biography by Mr. Dozie Okebalama, confirm his Rivers ancestry.
- He represented Rivers State in various forums, including Imeobi meetings and the South-South People’s Assembly alongside Chief Edwin Clark.
Despite the controversy, Okiro expressed his respect for the rule of law and emphasized his commitment to democratic values. “As an Igbo man and elder statesman from Rivers State, I respect the court’s order. My obedience to court orders, regardless of their nature, reflects our commitment to democracy,” he stated.
Okiro confirmed that he would not participate in the election until the case is resolved. However, he expressed concerns about the court order infringing on his fundamental rights as guaranteed by the 1999 Constitution. “Although I have not been formally served with the suit or order, the reliefs granted against me appear to infringe upon my fundamental rights,” he said.
The former police chief directed his legal team at Eze Okafor & Co. to address the matter in court. “I demand to be heard, and I trust that the court will uphold the principles of natural justice,” he added.
In his statement, Okiro urged his supporters to remain calm and uphold the rule of law. He also thanked Rivers State Governor Siminialayi Fubara for his support and reaffirmed his dedication to the ideals of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, including unity, peace, and progress in Igbo land.
“I assure you all that we shall overcome this minor setback, as our democratic values are non-negotiable,” he concluded.
The election for the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo is expected to proceed as planned, with Okiro’s withdrawal leaving room for other candidates to vie for the position.
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