ASIMPIN President General Eze Obianigwe Rejects Tribalism Allegations, Demands Retraction of Defamatory Claims Within 48 Hours*

*ASIMPIN President General Eze Obianigwe Rejects Tribalism Allegations, Demands Retraction of Defamatory Claims Within 48 Hours*

By prince Benson Davies

 

The wave of misleading narratives surrounding the Association of Igbo Maritime Practitioners in Nigeria, ASIMPIN, has prompted the President General of the association, His Royal Highness Eze Dr. Amb. Damian Emeka Obianigwe, to set the record straight for the sake of posterity. According to him, ASIMPIN remains the most respected and authentic Igbo professional body in Nigeria’s maritime sector, and its reputation must not be distorted by a narrow segment of the media spreading misinterpretations.

 

Eze Obianigwe’s standing in the nation’s maritime industry is the product of decades of dedicated service, hard work, and strategic leadership intelligence. His contributions have earned him wide respect across the sector. Only recently, in recognition of his unblemished character and record of public administrative excellence, the Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, appointed him Acting Chairman of the Orlu Zonal Council of Traditional Rulers. Orlu zone is the largest geopolitical zone in southern Nigeria by local government structure, with 12 local government areas under its jurisdiction, making the appointment a significant vote of confidence in his leadership.

 

Beyond professional and traditional recognition, Eze Obianigwe is widely known as a proponent of unity in diversity. As a first class traditional ruler and custodian of culture, he has consistently promoted peace, national cohesion, and cultural values. He has no history of tribalism or actions that promote division among Nigerians, particularly Igbos from all states including Delta State.

 

The allegation that he remained silent when someone allegedly used the term “Ndi-Okalauzo”, meaning half-caste, does not hold. The person accused of making the remark has publicly denied it. More importantly, Eze Obianigwe is not a member of the Tincan Chapter of ASIMPIN and therefore should not be drawn into internal chapter matters that do not concern his office as President General.

 

Speaking in a telephone interview, Eze Obianigwe clarified that his role as President General does not place him within the internal administration of the Tincan Chapter. He said it is unfair and illogical to hold him responsible for comments he did not hear at an event he did not attend in an association he does not belong to. Analysts have described such attempts as laughable and degrading, noting that blaming a leader for failing to respond to something he was not aware of lacks merit.

 

On the issue of financial audit that sparked the controversy, Eze Obianigwe said he has directed the constitution of a new committee to review the report of the initial committee. The fresh review is intended to ensure a thorough examination of all findings so the matter can be resolved conclusively and transparently. Industry observers and many members have welcomed the move, describing it as evidence of his commitment to fairness and due process. They argued that setting up another committee is not an attempt to dilute the first investigation or shield anyone from accountability, but rather to strengthen confidence in the process.

 

Eze Obianigwe further stated that ASIMPIN is founded on common identity, brotherhood, dignity, and a strong sense of regional belonging, and will never accommodate divisiveness or ethnic coloration. He warned individuals and media platforms spreading false narratives to withdraw such publications within 48 hours or face legal action for defamation of character. He reaffirmed that he remains a lover of all Nigerians and all Igbos regardless of state of origin, and will not suddenly turn against any member based on ethnic lines.

 

In conclusion, Eze Obianigwe urged members, stakeholders, and the media to uphold truth and professionalism in reporting matters concerning ASIMPIN. He stressed that the association will continue to operate on the principles of unity, integrity, and respect for all, while ensuring that internal processes are handled with fairness and transparency at all times.