Breaking: Former IGP Okiro Bows Out of Ohanaeze Presidential Race

Mike Okiro, a former Inspector General of Police, has withdrawn from consideration for the Ohanaeze Ndigbo President General post.

Okiro made the statement Thursday evening during a meeting in Enugu.

He gave as justification for his withdrawal the Enugu State High Court’s ruling prohibiting him from running for office.

The date of the election is set for January 10, 2015.

“I have been informed of the interim order issued by the Enugu State High Court, which unfortunately prevents me from running in tomorrow’s Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide Presidency General Election,” he said.

Verifiable facts are in conflict with the court ruling, which is based on the accused non-indigene status. Regretfully, I was not invited or contacted by the court prior to issuing that annoying order, which I learned about from the media. According to my National Population Commission Attestation of Birth, I am from Egbema in Rivers State. (a) The Nzeobi of Egbema, my Traditional Ruler, has also attested to my Rivers State indigenous status. (c) My Rivers State ancestry is mentioned in the author’s column of numerous books I’ve published. My best-selling book, Nigeria: The Restructuring ‘Controversy,’ serves as a good illustration. (d) My Rivers ancestry is also shown on page 6 of my biography, which was prepared by Mr. Dozie Okebalama. (f) According to the Secretary-General’s attendance list, I have represented Rivers State at numerous Imeobi sessions. (f) I was elected Treasurer of the Rivers State Students’ Association while I was a student at the University of Ibadan, and another outstanding student, now Bistinguished Senator Andrew Uchendu, was elected Secretary. (g) Under our esteemed leader, Chief Edwin Clark, I represented Rivers State at the South-South People’s Assembly meetings, while another Great Nigerian, Prof. Pat Utomi, represented Delta State. My credentials and records are self-evident.

I believe in the rule of law and will abide by the court’s ruling as an Igbo man and elder statesman of Rivers State Extraction, where the aforementioned position has been zoned by the electoral committee.

Our dedication to democracy is demonstrated by my obedience to judicial orders, regardless of how unfavorable they may be. Since the rule of law promotes our common progress, I firmly believe in its ideals.

Our democracy is protected by the rule of law; its tenets must be respected, our democratic ideals cannot be compromised, and we shall prevail as a team. We will be defended by our commitment to justice, due process, and the rule of law.

“Until the matter before Hon. Justice N.R. Oji of the Enugu State High Court, which issued the restraining order, is resolved, I will not take part in any elections.”

“Even if the reliefs given in the order against me seem to contradict my fundamental right guaranteed in Chapter IV of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), my dedication to law and order remains unshakable, even though I have not been properly served with the suit/processes or order.

“My illustrious career as Nigeria’s Inspector General of Police demonstrates my commitment to morality and justice.

“In accordance with our enabling laws, I have directed my attorneys, Chambers of Eze Okafor & Co., to see the case through to its logical conclusion in order to hold those who propagate hate and lawlessness accountable.

“As stipulated by our constitution, I insist on being heard, and I have no doubt that the court will make sure the twin pillars of natural justice are upheld when deciding the matter. We still have faith in our legal system.

“Throughout this contest, I implore my immediate community, the entire Igbo-speaking population of Rivers state, who are firmly behind me, and all of my supporters in Imo, Abia, Ebonyi, Enugu, Anambra, and Delta to uphold the rule of law.”

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“Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s unity and advancement are strengthened by our resolve. We’ll overcome this obstacle together.

“The unwavering support of my Governor, His Excellency Siminialayi Fubara GSSRS, is greatly appreciated and should not be taken for granted.” I do find Your Excellency’s leadership to be inspiring.

“Ohanaeze Ndigbo is the epitome of Igbo harmony, advancement, and peaceful cohabitation. Our group works to bring Igbos around the world together. Let’s put harmony and peace first.

“Unity, progress, and peace in Igbo land are Ohanaeze Ndigbo ideals that I reaffirm my commitment to.”

“Justice will triumph; Igbo unity and advancement will continue to be our guiding ideals.

“I promise you all that we will overcome this small setback because our democratic values are unassailable.”