Ohaneze Youth Forum Stands Firm in Defense of Cletus Ibeto Against Unsubstantiated EFCC Allegations

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

The Ohaneze Youth Forum rallied behind Chief Dr. Cletus Ibeto, condemning recent attempts to tarnish his reputation through the misuse of EFCC’s apparatus.

The organization asserted its position during a briefing held in Abuja on Tuesday.

The forum’s spokesperson, Chinedu Ogwuru, highlighted that the case emerged due to a civil transaction with Sir Daniel Chukwudozie, casting a shadow on Ibeto’s esteemed status as an international business entrepreneur and philanthropist.

Despite a High Court judgment affirming Ibeto Energy Development Limited’s rightful ownership of the disputed land, the forum expressed concern over ongoing criminal allegations and raised jurisdictional issues surrounding the High Court of Lagos State’s recent proceedings.

Another spokesperson for the forum, Chris Anayo, emphasized the need for a fair resolution, questioning the integrity of the legal process following the issuance of a bench warrant without due consideration of jurisdiction. The forum called for a ceasefire, urging Igbo sons and elites to exemplify peace.

In a plea for unity, the Ohaneze Youth Forum appealed to both Chief Dr. Cletus Ibeto and Sir Daniel Chukwudozie to consider mediation by red cap elders for an out-of-court settlement. The organization stressed the inappropriateness of public discord between prominent Igbo figures and called for a return to brotherhood and peace.

Reiterating unwavering support for Chief Dr. Cletus Ibeto, the forum expressed confidence in the sanctity of justice, hoping for a resolution that preserves the dignity of these eminent sons of Igbo land as the legal battle unfolds.

“ Concerns Over Judicial Proceedings: The recent developments in the High Court of Lagos State, Ikeja, raise concerns about due process and territorial jurisdiction. Chief Dr. Cletus Ibeto has not been personally served with the charges, and the court’s refusal to address jurisdictional challenges is troubling.

“ It is essential to note that the case involves a land dispute in Rivers State, and the charges on counts 1 to 9 clearly demonstrate a lack of territorial jurisdiction. The issuance of a bench warrant against Chief Dr. Cletus Ibeto without proper consideration of jurisdiction is a blatant miscarriage of justice.

“ Call for Peace and Fairness: The Ohaneze Youth Forum Abuja calls on all parties involved, as Igbo sons and elites, to show good examples by sheathing their swords and allowing peace to reign. We implore the judicial system to ensure a fair and just resolution, considering the legal complexities and the implications of the case on Chief Dr. Cletus Ibeto’s reputation and goodwill built over decades.

“ In conclusion, we stand firmly in support of Chief Dr. Cletus Ibeto, an industrious and impeccable character, and we believe in the sanctity of justice to prevail in this matter.

“ We further call on Sir Daniel Chukwudozie, an illustrious son of Igbo land, to allow elders of our land to intervene and find a mutually beneficial out of court settlement. Two eminent sons of ala igbo cannot be allowed to continue this naked dance as if there are no red cap elders in the entire igbo land with corresponding wisdom to find peace and restore brotherhood between these two brothers.” They stated.