Mr Chukwuma Okpalaezeukwu, the former Acting National Youth Leader of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has been urged by the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization to cease presenting himself as the youth leader.
In a statement released in Enugu by Dr Chiedozie Alex Ogbonnia, the National Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, it was revealed that Okpalaezeukwu had been instructed to return to his position as the Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Wing, but had continued to identify himself as the Acting National Leader of the Ohanaeze Youth wing.
“Despite being directed to revert to his previous role, Okpalaezeukwu has persisted in parading himself as the Acting National Youth Leader,” Ogbonnia explained, referencing a letter dated July 24 from Amb. Okey Emuchay, the Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide.
Emuchay, in his communication with Okpalaezeukwu, reminded him of the organizational hierarchy and emphasized that the privilege to serve as Youth Leader was temporary.
Additionally, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, the former President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, had officially reinstated Mr. Damian Okafor as the National Youth Leader after a visit to Ebonyi State.
Ogbonnia expressed concern over Okpalaezeukwu’s actions, including an alleged incident on July 30 where he and his associates reportedly disrupted activities at the Ohanaeze Ndigbo National Headquarters and engaged in violent behavior.
He called attention to the fact that Damian Okafor emerged as the National Youth Leader through a democratic electoral process on August 5, 2021, defeating three other candidates.
Emuchay’s statement highlighted that Okpalaezeukwu had been disowned by Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide and cautioned the public against engaging with him on matters related to the organization.
Meanwhile, in response to Alex Ogbonnia’s assertions, Chukwuma Okpalaezeukwu, the disputed Acting National Youth Leader of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, maintained his position as the youth leader when contacted by reporters.