Fidelis Chukwu, a former National Vice-Chairperson of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the South-East, has been appointed the new President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex socio-cultural organization representing the Igbo people.

Chukwu’s appointment was confirmed on Saturday during a meeting of the Imeobi Ohanaeze in Enugu. He succeeds the late Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, who passed away on July 25, 2024, following a prolonged illness.

Chiedozie Ogbonnia, spokesperson for Ohanaeze Ndigbo, announced that Chukwu will serve a brief tenure of 27 days, completing the term allocated to Imo State, which ends on January 10, 2025.

The decision to appoint Chukwu followed a motion by Cletus Ilomuanya, Chairperson of the Imo Council of Elders, and seconded by Simon Okeke. The motion was approved through a voice vote.

The presidency of Ohanaeze Ndigbo rotates among seven Igbo-speaking states—five in the South-East (Enugu, Anambra, Ebonyi, Abia, and Imo) and two in the South-South (Rivers and Delta). Each state serves a four-year term, and in the event of a vacancy due to death or resignation, the affected state nominates a replacement to complete the term.

Chukwu’s appointment comes amidst a challenging period for the organization, marked by the deaths of past President-Generals George Obiozor and Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu between 2022 and 2024.

A communiqué issued after the meeting confirmed that the next President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo will be selected from Rivers State. The National Executive Committee of Ohanaeze will oversee the composition of Election and Screening Committees for the forthcoming election.

Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, represented by Secretary to the State Government Chidi Onyia, urged Chukwu to ensure that the upcoming election is transparent and credible.

Chukwu now becomes the 12th President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, with the responsibility of uniting and representing the interests of the Igbo people as his brief tenure unfolds.