By Rismadarvoice, 11 November 2025
After more than two decades of internal division, apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has announced the end of the 26-year leadership crisis that rocked its Akwa Ibom State chapter.
Speaking at a news conference in Uyo, President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Akwa Ibom State Chapter, Hon. Kayceey Chidiadi, said the reconciliation will be celebrated during the Igbo Unity Day (IUD) Festival, scheduled to hold on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at the Ibom Hall Grounds, IBB Way, Uyo.
Themed “Peace and Unity: A Panacea for Progress and Development,” the event, according to the organisers, is designed to mark the end of the protracted leadership crisis and to chart a new path of solidarity and cooperation within the Igbo community in Akwa Ibom.
Hon. Chidiadi recalled that the lingering conflict had led to multiple litigations and financial losses amounting to over ₦400 million, while also regretting that some key figures who took part in the dispute had since passed away and would be posthumously honoured during the Unity Day celebration.
He explained that with the cooperation of the courts, an out-of-court settlement was achieved, leading to the striking out of all pending cases related to the leadership tussle.
Hon. Chidiadi urged all Igbos in the State to close their business outlets on that day and turn out en masse for the historic celebration, which he described as “a new dawn of unity and progress.”
Declaring the end of all factional hostilities, he announced that his administration had expanded the organisation’s presence in the State from 11 to 27 chapters, with plans to inaugurate the remaining four chapters after the Unity Day celebration, to achieve full representation in all 31 local government areas.
He further disclosed that the organisation now boasts a befitting secretariat, a functional bank account, and plans are underway to secure a permanent office for Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Akwa Ibom.
Hon. Chidiadi commended the government and people of Akwa Ibom State for their hospitality, describing the State as “a peaceful land where Igbos have continued to thrive in business and community life.”
He particularly praised Governor Pastor Umo Eno for providing an enabling environment for businesses to flourish and for the inclusion of Igbos in his administration’s appointments.
