A controversy is brewing over the candidacy of Chief Mike Okiro for the presidency of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, a prominent Igbo socio-cultural organization. Rivers Watch Advocacy has raised alarm over Okiro's alleged fake identity, claiming he is from Imo State but has been parading himself as a Rivers State indigene.
According to Rivers Watch Advocacy, Okiro's true identity is that of an Imo State man from Obiakpu, Egbema. His elder brother, the late Eze Okiro, was even appointed the first traditional ruler of Obiakpu Egbema Autonomous Community by the Achike Udenwa government. This revelation has sparked outrage, with many questioning Okiro's integrity and motives.
The Ohanaeze Ndigbo constitution zones the presidency to Rivers State, but Okiro's candidacy has thrown a spanner in the works. Rivers Watch Advocacy argues that allowing Okiro to contest would be a travesty, given his alleged fake identity. They insist that it is Rivers State's turn to occupy the exalted office and that Okiro's Imo State origin should disqualify him.
This controversy has sparked a heated debate about identity, integrity, and power politics. As the Ohanaeze Ndigbo prepares to elect a new president, the question on everyone's lips is: should Chief Mike Okiro be allowed to contest despite his alleged fake identity? Only time will tell.