OPC disowns OYC statement, backs south-east leaders’ endorsement of Tinubu
The Ohanaeze Progressive Council (OPC) has disowned and strongly condemned a statement credited to the Ohanaeze Youth Council (OYC), declaring the South-East former governors’ forum as “persona non grata” in Igboland.
The Ohanaeze Progressive Council (OPC) has disowned and strongly condemned a statement credited to the Ohanaeze Youth Council (OYC), declaring the South-East former governors’ forum as “persona non grata” in Igboland.
In a statement, the National President of the OPC, Comrade Ugo Benjamin, described the action as reckless, ill-advised, and a profound disrespect to Igbo cultural values.
He said the conduct amounted to what he termed “youthful arrogance and cultural sacrilege,” stressing that it has no place in the traditions and norms of Ndigbo.
“This is not how Igbo people behave. Respect for elders, leaders, and statesmen is fundamental in Igboland,” he said.
He added that the individuals targeted by the youth group are respected sons of the region who have served the people in various capacities with distinction.
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“For a fringe group of vocal youths to wake up and declare them outcasts is not only unacceptable but a gross affront to our cultural heritage,” he stated.
Comrade Benjamin further described the former governors as visionary leaders who have consistently prioritised the interests of the South-East above personal considerations.
He also highlighted their developmental contributions, governance records, and continued engagement in issues affecting the region even after leaving office.
“These men have fought for Igbo interests at the national level with courage and intelligence.
"Their decision to endorse President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term is not betrayal—it is strategic patriotism of the highest order.
"It is a bold move to secure the future of our region through engagement, development, and inclusion rather than the childish confrontation and isolation peddled by the OYC,” he stated.
The OPC leader hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a transformative leader whose administration has opened new doors for the South-East.
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“President Tinubu is a man of action, a unifier, and a visionary whose Renewed Hope Agenda is delivering real dividends across Nigeria.
"The South-East leaders who have endorsed him understand what many short-sighted youths cannot see: that the path to addressing marginalization is not through endless protest and isolation, but through strategic alliance with a President who respects competence and rewards loyalty.
"Their support is in the best interest of Ndigbo, and history will vindicate them,” Comrade Benjamin declared.
He accused the OYC of acting out of mischief, hunger for cheap relevance, and possible external sponsorship aimed at dividing the South-East ahead of 2027.
“These so-called youth leaders have no electoral value, no grassroots following, and zero respect for the wisdom of our elders.
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"Their disgraceful statement is nothing but political hooliganism and an attempt to blackmail respected leaders who have refused to be used as tools for selfish agendas.
"We reject it in its entirety. We stand firmly with our leaders, and we urge all well-meaning Ndigbo to do the same,” he added.
Comrade Ugo Benjamin warned that any further attempt to ostracize or disrespect these leaders would be resisted by the majority of progressive Igbo youths and elders who value unity, respect, and progress over empty noise-making.
“The Ohanaeze Progressive Council stands for responsible youth leadership that uplifts rather than destroys.
"We call on all Igbo sons and daughters to ignore the divisive rantings of the OYC and rally behind the statesmen who are working tirelessly for the interest of Ala Igbo within the Nigerian project under the capable leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
