By Capital Watch Media
National President of the Almushahid Initiative for Transparency and Accountability, Ambassador Aminu Majidadi has come out in strong support of Sir Mike Mbama Okiro’s bid for the presidency of Ohanaeze Ndígbo, condemning recent claims questioning the former Inspector General of Police’s eligibility based on his origin.
In a statement released today, Majidadi highlighted Okiro’s impeccable track record and called for a focus on his competence and vision rather than baseless attacks on his roots. The controversy arose after Professor Obasi, a vocal critic, alleged that Okiro, who hails from the Egbema community in Rivers State, was not truly of Igbo descent. According to Prof. Obasi, this disqualifies Okiro from running for the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndígbo, which represents the interests of the Igbo-speaking people across several states in Nigeria.
However, Majidadi refuted these allegations, asserting that Okiro’s heritage is undeniably Igbo. He explained that Egbema, an oil-rich, Igbo-speaking community in Rivers State, shares deep cultural and historical ties with its neighboring Imo State. The cross-border nature of the region has led to some fluidity in local identities, but Majidadi emphasized that Okiro’s Igbo identity and his dedication to public service have never been in question.
“Mike Okiro is not only an Igbo man by heritage, but he has also spent his entire life in Rivers State, contributing immensely to its development and serving Nigeria in various capacities,” Majidadi stated. “His leadership qualities are beyond reproach, and his accomplishments as a former IGP stand as a testament to his capabilities.”
Majidadi went further to criticize those behind the smear campaign, including Prof. Obasi, accusing them of seeking to undermine Okiro’s candidacy for personal gain. He pointed out that Sir Mike Okiro’s rise to the top of Nigeria’s police force culminating in his appointment as IGP was driven by merit, not by regional favoritism. Okiro’s distinguished service in taming crime, particularly in Lagos, earned him unparalleled recognition and multiple promotions, he noted.
The statement further urged Ndi Igbo to unite behind a leader who has proven his worth to the nation and to the Igbo people. “Mike Okiro is a tested and trusted hand, and he will undoubtedly add tremendous value to the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndígbo,” Majidadi concluded.
Majidadi also called for an end to the divisive politics surrounding the election, urging all parties to focus on Okiro’s qualifications and vision for the Igbo community’s future. He reaffirmed Okiro’s right to seek the presidency of Ohanaeze, citing the organization’s broad regional representation that includes Rivers State, from where Okiro hails.
As the race for the presidency of Ohanaeze Ndígbo heats up, Ambassador Majidadi’s endorsement of Sir Mike Okiro serves as a significant counterpoint to the ongoing controversy. With Majidadi’s support, Okiro’s candidacy is expected to gain momentum, especially among those advocating for a leadership that prioritizes competence and unity over divisive narratives.
