By Izunna Okafor, Awka
The Igbo Community Association (ICA) in Abuja has debunked speculations of a leadership crisis within its ranks, insisting that the association remains united under the leadership of its duly elected President-General, Engr. Ikenna Ellis Ezenekwe.
This clarification was made in a statement issued by the Secretary-General of the association, Mr. Emmanuel Chinwoke Onah, in response to recent claims suggesting internal factions and an alleged parallel leadership within the ICA.
According to the statement, Engr. Ezenekwe emerged as President-General of the ICA through a transparent, constitutionally guided election held in November 2024, reflecting the collective will of the Igbo community in Abuja. The association, therefore, dismissed as false and misleading any reports of division or alternative leadership structures within its fold.
The ICA further condemned what it described as unauthorized actions by one Eze Ibe Nwosu, who has been accused of unilaterally appointing individuals to leadership roles and presenting them as representatives of the ICA without the mandate of the association or its members.
“These appointments are neither constitutionally sanctioned nor democratically endorsed by our members,” the statement read, warning Eze Nwosu against misrepresenting himself or any group as part of the ICA.
While noting that Eze Nwosu is free to establish his own platform, the Association cautioned him to refrain from appropriating the ICA’s identity or undermining its cohesion and mission.
“We stand united, undeterred by attempts to prioritise personal ambition over our shared purpose,” the Association affirmed, reiterating its commitment to democratic values and collective progress.
The ICA also dismissed recent allegations of financial impropriety levelled against its leadership as baseless and mischievous, accusing Eze Nwosu of attempting to distract, judging from his failure to abide by democratic principles. The Association stated that its financial records are open to scrutiny by any credible authority and reaffirmed its dedication to transparency.
Highlighting its developmental agenda, the ICA noted that one of its key initiatives under Engr. Ezenekwe is the ongoing advocacy for the establishment of a Southeast seaport, a project aimed at enhancing regional trade, creating jobs, and boosting Nigeria’s economy. The Association also pledged continued collaboration with other ethnic communities to promote peace and national unity.
The ICA concluded by calling on the entire Igbo community in Abuja, across Nigeria, and in the diaspora to rally behind the association’s legitimate leadership and to disregard any individuals or groups purporting to represent it without due authority.
They also appealed to relevant authorities to take appropriate action against those threatening the peace and cohesion of the Igbo community through divisive and unrecognized initiatives.
