Breaking: Okiro Steps Down from Ohanaeze Ndigbo Race!

Former Inspector General of Police Mike Okiro has resigned from the candidacy for President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.

Okiro made the statement during a briefing in Enugu on Thursday night.

He claimed an Enugu State High Court judgment prohibiting him from contesting the race as the reason for his withdrawal.
The election is scheduled for January 10, 2015. 

According to him, "I have been informed of the Enugu State High Court's interim ruling, which unfortunately prevents me from participating the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide Presidency General Election tomorrow.

"The court order, based on supposed non-indigene status, contradicts verifiable evidence. It's regrettable that the court didn't invite me or hear from me before issuing that ugly order, which I learned via the media. The facts are: (a) I am from Egbema in Rivers State, as evidenced by my National Population Commission Attestation of Birth. (a) My Traditional Ruler, the Nzeobi of Egbema, has also certified my indigene identity in Rivers State. (c) I have written many novels in which my Rivers State ancestry is mentioned in the author's column. A good example is my best-seller, "Nigeria: The Restructuring 'Controversy". (c) Page 6 of my biography, published by Mr. Dozie Okebalama, also shows my Rivers indigeneship. (e) I have attended numerous Imeobi meetings and represented Rivers State on the Secretary-General's attendance list. (f) While a student at the University of Ibadan, I was a member of the Rivers State Students' Association, where I was voted Treasurer, and another Great UIte, now Bistinguished Senator Andrew Uchendu, was elected Secretary. (g) I represented Rivers State at the South-South People's Assembly sessions led by our revered leader, Chief Edwin Clark, while Prof. Pat. Utomi, another great Nigerian, represented Delta State. My career and credentials speak for themselves.

"As an Igbo guy and elder statesman of Rivers State Extraction, where the job has been allocated by the election committee, I believe in the rule of law and will obey the court's order.

"My compliance with court orders, no matter how unfavorable, proves our devotion to democracy. I support the rule of law because it promotes growth for all.The rule of law protects our society; its ideals must be respected, and our democratic values cannot be compromised; together, we will emerge stronger. Our commitment to fairness, due process, and the rule of law will serve us well.

"My distinguished career as Nigeria's Inspector General of Police underscores my dedication to justice and what is noble."I have directed the Chambers of Eze Okafor & Co, my lawyers, to bring the case to its natural conclusion in order to guarantee that the perpetrators of hatred and lawlessness are held accountable in accordance with our enabling laws.

"As established by our constitution, I demand to be heard, and I am confident that the court will ensure that the twin pillars of natural justice are followed in the conduct of the case. We have not given up hope in our justice system.

"I ask my immediate community, Egbema, the entire Igbo-speaking people of Rivers state, and all of my supporters from Imo, Abia, Ebonyi, Enugu, Anambra, and Delta, to uphold the rule of law throughout this campaign.

"Our determination contributes to Ohanaeze Ndigbo's togetherness and growth. We will face this problem together.

"My Governor, His Excellency, Siminialayi Fubara GSSRS's constant support is much appreciated and cannot be taken for granted. Your Excellency's leadership truly inspires me.

"Ohanaeze Ndigbo represents Igbo unity, progress, and peaceful coexistence." Our group works to foster unity among Igbos over the world. Let us value peace and harmony.

"I reaffirm my commitment to the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Ideals of unity, growth, and peace in Igbo nation.

"Justice will prevail, and Igbo unity and progress will be our guiding principles."

"I assure all of you that we shall overcome this minor setback as our democratic values are non-negotiable."