Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos launches reconciliation drive to resolve crisis

The Lagos State chapter of Ohanaeze Ndigbo has begun formal reconciliation efforts aimed at resolving its prolonged leadership crisis.

Speaking at a press conference in Lagos, Acting President High Chief Linus Igbudu said the move was designed to restore unity and strengthen the organisation’s collective voice.

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Call for peace and unity

Igbudu urged aggrieved members to embrace reconciliation in the interest of the Igbo community in Lagos.

“Our objective is to safeguard and promote the interests of the Ndigbo community in Lagos State in alignment with the principles of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide,” he said.

According to him, the crisis began when former President Solomon Ogbonna allegedly attempted to extend his tenure through what he described as a “contentious consent judgment,” contrary to the group’s constitution and directives from the national leadership.

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He added that actions by the former leadership had strained relations between the Lagos chapter and the national body.

The acting president disclosed that the suspension and removal of Chief Sunday Ossai followed allegations of gross misconduct, after a vote of no confidence was passed by the State Executive Council and Local Government Area chairmen, and ratified by the General Assembly.

Igbudu, who previously served as vice president for Enugu State, assumed office following the absence of the deputy president.

Truth and Reconciliation Commission

As part of the peace process, the chapter has constituted a Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) and a Local Organising Committee (LOC).

The TRC, modelled after South Africa’s post-apartheid reconciliation framework and Nigeria’s Oputa Panel, is expected to provide a platform for members to openly address grievances.

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“Those who come forward in sincerity, acknowledge their actions, and commit to reconciliation will have the opportunity for forgiveness,” Igbudu said, stressing that the goal is restoration rather than retaliation.

The LOC will work with the national electoral body of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide to conduct what the chapter described as a transparent and credible election in accordance with the organisation’s constitution.

The chapter also announced plans to make nomination forms affordable to encourage broader participation, describing leadership as a call to service.

On ongoing legal disputes, Igbudu expressed optimism that recent peace engagements at the National Executive Council level would help resolve outstanding issues within a reasonable timeframe.

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Efforts to obtain comments from those mentioned in the allegations were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.

The Lagos chapter called on all stakeholders to prioritise dialogue and constitutional order as it seeks to end years of internal wrangling and reposition the stability organization.