Apex Igbo socio-political group Ohanaeze Ndigbo has faced backlash from netizens for snubbing Igboland to hold a book presentation in Lagos State.
The event was graced by Abia State Governor Alex Otti, presidential candidate Peter Obi, eminent Igbo leaders, traditional rulers, and other distinguished guests.
The book presented is titled 'Ohaneze at 50: The Burden of Memory, The Politics of Relevance: A Critical Biographical Reflection of an Igbo Institution' and was written by Agbaeze Ireke Kalu Onuma.
Describing the 602-page book, Otti said it goes beyond recounting the organisation’s history, examining its leadership, achievements, challenges, and continuing relevance.
He said the book challenges Ohanaeze to look beyond history and ask what it has become, what it should be, and what it must do to remain relevant to generations of Ndigbo yet unborn.
"It reminds us that while heritage provides a foundation, relevance must be earned continuously. The future of Ndigbo requires institutions that embrace young people, technology, innovation and the global Igbo community, while translating our rich cultural identity into greater economic, intellectual and political strength.
"I commend Agbaeze Ireke Kalu Onuma for undertaking this important work and recommend the book to everyone interested in the history, identity, unity and future of Ndigbo.
"Ohaneze at 50 is not merely a record of history; it is an invitation to reflect on where we are and where we should be headed," the governor said.
In response, some netizens wondered why the Ohanaeze leadership couldn't find a state in the Igbo Southeast region fit enough to host the event.
An X user, @Nkemakolam24, said, "Ohanaeze keeps proving to be a useless organisation that doesn't serve the interests of Ndị Igbo. No common sense any more. How do you feel comfortable celebrating ohaneze at 50 outside Igboland? And of all places, Lagos?"
@Pcontentsol said, "Shameless people. Left their states to another man's land to celebrate their 50 years' rubbish. Your children are all over insulting Lagos yet can't leave without it. Ndi developer of Lagos."
@OtunbaDP said, "Just imagine Yorubas going to the SE for the Afenifere conference or the recently done Kiriji remembrance or the Hausas going to the SE for the Arewa conference. It will NEVER happen, not in this world or the next."
@XSimions73 said, "His Excellency, sir, why Lagos, if I may ask? Why will the organisers host such in Lagos? Ohanaeze at 50 in Lagos State. I think we are contributing to the reason these other parts of Nigeria are not taking us seriously. Can Hausa, Yoruba, or other tribes host such celebrations outside?
@LionsDenMbaise said, "Shame on you all that left Igbo land to celebrate a book launch in Lagos. You gathered funds and funnelled them into Lagos that's already richer than the entire South East. From hotel accommodations, food, and logistics to the event hall, etc., it could cost over a billion. You all are insensitive."
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