The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Elders’ Council, Lagos Chapter, has issued a public disclaimer over Mr. Everest Ozonweke and warning members of the public against dealing with him on matters relating to Ohanaeze Ndigbo.
In a statement signed on May 25, 2026 by the Chairman, Onyendu Uche Dimgba, and Secretary, Rev. Paul Eze, the Council said Mr. Ozonweke has been parading himself as the “Southwest Coordinator, Ohanaeze Ndigbo”. The Council described the title as false and unauthorized.
According to the disclaimer addressed to the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Senator John Azuta-Mbata, the position being claimed by Mr. Ozonweke does not exist within the structure of the organization. The Council noted that the title is not contained in the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Constitution and Bylaws of 2006 or in any subsequent amendment.
The Elders’ Council stated that Mr. Ozonweke was neither appointed, elected, nor mandated by any competent organ of Ohanaeze Ndigbo to act in any such capacity. It added that the claim was misleading and capable of causing confusion within the Igbo community in Lagos and the Southwest.
The Council further declared that following its review, Mr. Ozonweke is an impostor and a serial misrepresenter of facts. It accused him of instigating division and creating a false impression of legitimacy where none exists within the organization.
In a public notice contained in the document, the Elders’ Council advised individuals, groups and organizations to desist from engaging Mr. Ozonweke on any matter relating to Ohanaeze Ndigbo. This includes meetings, consultations, negotiations, fundraising, or any representation on behalf of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos, Southwest, or Worldwide.
The Council warned that any person or group that chooses to deal with Mr. Ozonweke on Ohanaeze matters does so at their own risk. It stated that Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos and the Elders’ Council shall not be liable for any commitments, agreements, financial transactions, or consequences arising from such engagements.
The disclaimer also stated that the Council reserves the right to pursue legal remedies against Mr. Ozonweke for impersonation, defamation and any act that brings the name of Ohanaeze Ndigbo into disrepute. Copies of the notice were sent to security agencies and relevant Igbo bodies in Lagos.
Recipients of the letter included the Ohanaeze Ndigbo National Executive Council in Enugu, Ime Obi Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the Lagos State Government, the Commissioner of Police Lagos State Command, the Director of DSS Lagos, and various Igbo town unions and community leaders in Lagos.
The Council said the disclaimer was issued in good faith to prevent further misinformation, protect members of the public, and preserve the unity and credibility of Ohanaeze Ndigbo. It urged Ndigbo in Lagos to remain united and to verify any representation through official channels.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo is the apex socio-cultural organization of Igbo people worldwide. The Lagos Chapter and its Elders’ Council play a key role in coordinating Igbo affairs in the state. The allegations against Mr. Ozonweke are contained in the Council’s disclaimer and remain assertions made by the Council.
