Crisis in Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos: Stakeholders Demand Compliance with Court Judgment, Raise Alarm Over Leadership Controversy
By Clement Odum
Tensions are mounting within Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos as stakeholders raise serious concerns over alleged disregard for a subsisting court judgment and inconsistencies in the organization’s leadership processes.
In a strongly worded statement released to the public, concerned members and stakeholders called for urgent accountability, warning that recent developments threaten the credibility, unity, and institutional integrity of the apex Igbo socio-cultural body in Lagos.
At the heart of the controversy is a valid Consent Judgment issued by a competent court, which reportedly affirms Chief Solomon Ogbonna as President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos. Based on this judgment, contempt proceedings were initiated against the Election Chairman and Chief Sunday Ossai through Forms 48 and 49—proceedings that are still pending before the court.
Stakeholders expressed shock that Chief Ossai, who is allegedly facing contempt proceedings under the same judgment, is now being recognized in a leadership role. They described the situation as legally contradictory and ethically troubling, warning that such actions could undermine both judicial authority and organizational discipline.
“The subsisting court judgment remains binding on all parties until set aside,” the statement emphasized, adding that any deviation could amount to contempt of court and a breach of due process.
The statement further noted that the Consent Judgment affirms the legitimacy of the current executive structure, including LGA Chairmen and Chief Robert Obasi as Secretary. It also highlighted key provisions—particularly paragraphs 5 and 6—which stipulate that the office of the President was not to be contested and that existing leadership structures must be maintained.
These provisions, according to stakeholders, raise critical questions about subsequent actions taken within the organization, including the sale of nomination forms, claims of an open contest, lack of disclosure of the court judgment, and concerns over transparency in funds generated from the process.
Describing the situation as a “troubling pattern of inconsistency and lack of accountability,” the stakeholders warned that failure to address these issues could erode trust and destabilize the organization.
They called on Chief Solomon Ogbonna to uphold the rule of law by strictly complying with the court judgment, refraining from actions that may prejudice ongoing legal proceedings, and ensuring transparency in all organizational dealings.
“This is a defining moment that demands responsible leadership and respect for due process,” the statement read.
In a closing remark, Apostle Patrick A. Nwanze, JP, who signed the statement, recounted a previous involving an injunction issued ahead of the 2025 Igbo Heritage Day celebration. He alleged that the legal action disrupted the event, causing invited dignitaries to withdraw over fears of contempt proceedings.
Despite the setback, he noted that the event proceeded, attributing its success to resilience and faith.
“Leadership must serve the people, not obstruct them,” Nwanze stated, questioning the motives behind actions he described as detrimental to the Igbo community in Lagos.
Observers say the unfolding situation could have far-reaching implications for the unity and leadership structure of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos if not urgently addressed.
