PROF. OBIOZO EMERGES PRESIDENT-GENERAL OHANEZE NDIGBO, PROMISES TO UNITE THE PEOPLE

Reporter:  CHINAZO ILECHUKWU

A former Nigerian Ambassador to the United States, Professor George Obiozor, has emerged President General of the apex Igbo socio cultural group, Ohaneze Ndigbo.

He polled 304 votes to defeat his closest rival, Mr. Valentine Oparaocha, who scored 15 votes in an election that was held in Owerri, Imo State.

The returning officer and former President General of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Chief Jerry Igariwe, declared Professor Obiozor the winner having scored the majority number of votes cast in the election.

Mr. Obi Nwali won the position of Deputy President General, Mr. Okey Emuche emerged Secretary General while other positions were filled.

The new President General, Professor George Obiozor, said he would vigorously pursue the unity, peace and security of Ndigbo.

He promised to engage all relevant stakeholders through dialogue to advance the interest of the people of Igbo extraction.

The Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, and his counterpart from Ebonyi State, Chief David Umahi, commended the process, noting that the election would further strengthen the unity of Ndigbo.

Three candidates had stepped down from the race to support the candidature of Professor Obiozor who is taking over from Chief Nnia Nwodo.

Delegates and dignitaries from the five states of the south east and Igbo speaking communities in Rivers and Delta states participated in the election.