Valentine Oparaocha, a contestant in the 2021 President-General of Ohaneze Ndi-Igbo worldwide election, has called for a review of the election results, citing electoral irregularities and mandate theft.
Oparaocha, a security expert, claims he came second in the contest and is seeking to reclaim his “stolen mandate” now that the seat is vacant following the passing of Dr. George Obiazor and Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.
Oparaocha alleged that the electoral committee denied him victory and instead handed over the leadership to Iwuanyanwu, who did not participate in the election.
He expressed readiness to pursue his mandate, stating that he believes he should be the rightful occupant of the office.
In a protest letter to the Ohaneze Ndi-Igbo Electoral Committee, Oparaocha sought a review of the 2021 election and reclaiming of his mandate, citing the constitution of the organization and the fact that Imo State’s tenure has not expired.
He emphasized that there should not be a vacuum in the leadership of the apex Igbo organization.
Oparaocha recalled that he, alongside the late Obiozor and another contestant, procured a form for N500,000 and went through the electoral process. However, he claimed that Iwuanyanwu was never part of the contest but was later pronounced as a replacement for the late Obiozor.
He described this as a violation of the organization’s constitution and an attempt to deny him his rightful place.
The petitioner argued that since the stool is still vacant and Imo State’s tenure has not elapsed, he is still interested and ready to reclaim his lost mandate. He urged the electoral committee to review the election results and ensure justice and fairness.
Oparaocha’s call for a review of the election results has sparked debate within the Ohaneze Ndi-Igbo organization, with some members supporting his claim and others opposing it.
The organization’s leadership has yet to respond to Oparaocha’s petition, but the issue is expected to be addressed in the coming days.
