Ohaneze Ndigbo Presidency: A case for Sir Mike Okiro (IGP RETD)

In a nation where leadership is often tested by both internal and external challenges, the need for a unifying force within the Igbo community has never been more pressing. As Ohaneze Ndigbo, the apex socio-cultural organization of the Igbo people, searches for leadership to address the many daunting issues confronting the region, one name stands tall: Sir Mike Mbama Okiro, IGP (Retd). Hailing from Egbema in the Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State, Sir Mike Okiro possesses the experience, foresight, and leadership required to reintegrate the Igbo nation into the mainstream of Nigerian politics and governance, in a manner that promotes peace, security, and national unity.

Mike Okiro’s career is nothing short of meteoric, having risen to the pinnacle of law enforcement in Nigeria as the Inspector-General of Police (IGP). His tenure as IGP was marked by a series of groundbreaking reforms and accomplishments that earned him widespread respect and recognition within and outside the Nigerian Police Force (NPF). More than just a leader in name, Okiro led from the front in addressing some of Nigeria’s most dangerous and persistent problems—cultism and terrorism. During his time as IGP, he masterminded key operations that drastically reduced the activities of criminal syndicates and terrorists, restoring a measure of stability to various regions of Nigeria.

His remarkable performance in office left an indelible mark on the Nigerian police structure. Okiro’s leadership in the NPF fundamentally altered the trajectory of the force. He was a key architect of reforms aimed at enhancing the professionalism, efficiency, and accountability of the police force. Under his stewardship, the NPF earned a reputation for having an increased focus on community policing, a shift that helped bridge the divide between the police and the general populace. His efforts to improve the welfare and morale of police officers helped re-establish a sense of pride within the force. His strategies in tackling terrorism, especially in the volatile northeastern region, are still widely regarded as some of the most successful counter-terrorism efforts in Nigeria’s history. Even after his retirement, Okiro’s legacy as IGP remains influential, with many of the reforms he implemented still serving as a blueprint for effective policing in Nigeria.

Beyond his accomplishments in the realm of security and law enforcement, Sir Mike Okiro’s post-retirement career as the Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC) further exemplifies his exceptional leadership qualities. In this role, he continued to exhibit his unparalleled ability to manage complex systems and human resources. He played an instrumental part in ensuring the professional development of Nigeria’s police officers, while also overseeing recruitment, promotion, and disciplinary processes within the police force. Okiro’s tenure at the PSC was characterized by a transparent approach to personnel management, a quality that further solidified his reputation as a leader of integrity, fairness, and vision.

However, the challenges that Ohaneze Ndigbo faces today are more profound than any Nigeria has witnessed in recent memory. The region stands at a crossroads, grappling with the critical task of reintegrating the Igbo people into the heart of Nigerian politics. This reintegration is further complicated by the growing agitation for secession, spearheaded by groups like the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). At the same time, key figures in the struggle for Igbo self-determination remain incarcerated, and there is an increasingly vocal question regarding the safety and future of the Igbo within Nigeria’s current political structure. Are the Igbo secure in Nigeria, or should they pursue a separate nation? These are some of the deep-seated questions that threaten the region’s peace and stability.

In these turbulent times, Sir Mike Okiro’s leadership experience and proven crisis-management skills make him uniquely suited to tackle these complex issues. His deep understanding of Nigeria’s security challenges, his demonstrated ability to mediate between competing interests, and his unparalleled experience in human management provide him with the tools necessary to bring peace to the Southeast and beyond.

Okiro’s career demonstrates his capacity to lead in moments of tension and crisis. His tenure as IGP saw him navigate the difficult terrain of national security while ensuring that the rights and concerns of different ethnic groups, including the Igbo, were respected. He has never been one to shy away from confronting uncomfortable truths or making difficult decisions. This resolve, coupled with his unwavering belief in national unity, would serve him well in leading the Igbo nation through its current struggles. His brand of leadership is grounded in dialogue, consensus-building, and above all, justice. The current leadership vacuum within Ohaneze Ndigbo requires a visionary who can engage with the broader Nigerian political elite, confront the issues of marginalization and insecurity head-on, and work toward a sustainable and inclusive future for the Igbo people.

At the core of Okiro’s leadership is his deep commitment to the ideals of peace and security. His vast experience in law enforcement and human resource management gives him a distinct advantage when it comes to handling the internal challenges facing the Southeast. Whether it is addressing the rise in criminality, mitigating the divisive rhetoric surrounding calls for secession, or ensuring the well-being of Igbo people living across Nigeria, Okiro has the ability to chart a course toward long-lasting peace and stability. Furthermore, his deep understanding of Nigeria’s diverse socio-political landscape will be invaluable in reconciling the Igbo with other ethnic groups within the country. His message of unity and inclusivity could serve as the bridge that heals the divisions between the Igbo and the Nigerian state.

In conclusion, Ohaneze Ndigbo faces a critical moment in its history, and the need for strong, competent leadership has never been greater. Sir Mike Okiro’s extensive experience in law enforcement, human resource management, and crisis resolution make him the ideal candidate to take on the mantle of leadership. With his vision, integrity, and unmatched dedication to peace, Okiro can lead the Igbo people toward a future of security, empowerment, and prosperity within a united Nigeria. The time has come for Ohaneze Ndigbo to embrace a leader with the pedigree, skills, and drive to tackle the pressing issues of the day—Sir Mike Mbama Okiro. Let us rally behind his candidacy for the good of the Igbo people and Nigeria at large.

Clarius Ugwuoha is a public Affairs Analyst and writes from Egbema.