By Ejike Ikezuagu – UK.
One of the candidates nominated by the people of Imo State for the Presidency, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief lord Okey Igbokwe has officially withdrawn from the Presidential race, Ogene Ndigbo Newspaper learnt.
Chief Igbokwe made the announcement last Sunday, citing concerns over the nomination process. In particular, he publicly queried the authority of the Imo State Union Elders, led by Chief Dr Nick Chikwe, to organize and oversee the nomination exercise.
On 20 July 2025, during the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Ohanaeze Ndigbo UK held in London, presided over by Lady Aqueen Ibeto, the general membership collectively mandated the Imo State Union Elders UK to coordinate the nomination process on behalf of the organization. This resolution was adopted in good faith to ensure a transparent, inclusive, and community-led approach to candidate selection.
Also Read: Ohanaeze UK: Chief Oparaugo Nominated As The First Choice For Presidency, Ohanaeze Ndigbo UK
Chief Igbokwe was said to be present at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in London on 20 July 2025, where the general membership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo UK, under the leadership of Lady Aqueen Ibeto collectively mandated the Imo State Union Elders UK to coordinate the nomination exercise and present candidates to the organization. The resolution was adopted through consensus to ensure transparency, community ownership, and procedural integrity.
The decision was taken in good faith and with full consensus, to enable the people of Imo State to select the best of the bests among themselves, in line with the zoning arrangement that reserved the presidential slot for Imo State.
During the nomination exercise, 31 votes were casted by members. Chief Chima Oparaugo received 25 votes, emerging as the first choice of the people of Imo State. Chief lord Okey Igbokwe received 6 votes, retaining the position of the second choice.
The members of the organization expressed their pleasure with the conduct of the exercise, describing the process as transparent, fair, and clear.
The organizers were praised for their excellent performance, reflecting the collective commitment to democratic integrity and community trust.
Also Read: Ohanaeze UK Election: Ohanaeze Ndigbo UK Presidency, Other Positions Zoned To Imo State.
Following the conclusion of the nomination, Chief Dr, Nick Chikwe extended his appreciation to all candidates and urged them to work together for the benefit of Ndigbo, emphasizing unity, collaboration, and shared purpose.
As a result of the official withdrawal of Chief lord Okey Igbokwe from the presidential race, the election for the office of the President, Ohanaeze Ndigbo UK, scheduled for 15 November 2025, will now feature a sole contestant, High Chief Chima Oparaugo, who emerged as the first choice of the Imo State constituency during the nomination exercise.
The election will proceed as planned to formally affirm the mandate of the nominee and uphold the integrity of the democratic process.
📍 Venue: St Andrews the Apostle Church Hall
📫 Address: Sandhurst Road, Catford, SE6 1XD, London
🕚 Time: 11:00 AM
📅 Date: Friday, 15 November 2025
All the members of Ohanaeze Ndigbo UK are encouraged to attend and participate in this important event, which marks a new chapter in our collective journey toward unity, leadership, and progress.
Chief Igbokwe’s withdrawal is regrettable, his decades of service and commitment to the Igbo cause in the diaspora are deeply appreciated. His concerns will be noted as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen institutional trust and democratic accountability, Ogene Ndigbo Newspaper gathered.
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