The President General of all Igbo-speaking people in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Abuja, under the umbrella of Igbo Community Association, ICA, Engr. Ikenna Ellis Ezenekwe, has urged the Ikwere people of Rivers State to rally round the new Ohanaeze Ndigbo President General, Senator Azuta-Mbata.

Ezenekwe, who said this in a statement made available to DAILY POST on Monday, praised the Ohanaeze Ndigbo for conducting an election that reflected collective Igbo unity.

There has been disquiet in Ikwere since Azuta-Mbata’s emergence, with some of the indigenes attacking him for accepting the role.

However, Ezenekwe used the opportunity to address rising tensions, cautioning against division.

He urged the Ikwerre people to foster a harmonious atmosphere for the new Ohanaeze leader.

“Ikwere is Igbo. It has always been Igbo, and will remain Igbo. We are together and we speak the same language. No more divisions within us,” Ezenekwe declared, emphasizing the need for solidarity among all Igbo-speaking communities.

On the outcome of the election, he said, “We, Ndị Igbo in Abuja, are very pleased and delighted with the outcome of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo national election.

“It shows that we are together in unison, and that whether we find ourselves in Rivers, Delta, Imo, Ebonyi, Abia, Enugu, or Anambra States, we remain together as one family of Igbo-speaking people.”

Reflecting on the historical journey of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Ezenekwe traced its origins back to the 1930s when it was established in Lagos under the name Lagos Igbo Union.

He recounted its transformation into the Igbo State Union in 1948 during a conference in Port Harcourt, with the late Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe as its first President General.

He noted further developments over the decades, culminating in the renaming of the organization as Ohanaeze Ndigbo in 1979, under the leadership of Dr. Francis Akanu from Afikpo, Ebonyi State.

Ezenekwe emphasized that the roots of Ohanaeze Ndigbo embody unity, resilience, and a shared commitment to advancing the cause of the Igbo people.

According to him, as the newly-elected Ohanaeze leader steps into his role, all eyes will be on how he steers the challenges and opportunities ahead in uniting and advancing the interests of the Igbo people worldwide.

He pledged the full backing of the Igbo Community Association in Abuja for the new Ohanaeze leadership. He highlighted the strategic importance of the ICA’s grassroots network of over 78 units spread across the FCT in bolstering the new administration’s efforts.

“As the President General of Ndigbo in the Federal Capital Territory under the auspices of ICA, I and the ICA have pledged to support and cooperate with the new leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.

“We will draw on our grassroots strength to support the new leadership. Igbo Community Association in Abuja understands the need to be united against odds staked against the Igbos,” he affirmed.

The member representing Ideato North/South federal constituency of Imo State in the House of Representatives, Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, has congratulated Senator John Azuta-Mbata on his emergence as the new President-General of the Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide.

Azuta-Mbata, who is a former Senator representing Rivers East Senatorial District, emerged on Friday during the selection of new executives for the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, held at the Old Government Lodge in Enugu.

Reacting to the development, Ugochinyere said the emergence of Azuta-Mbata from Rivers State as Ohanaeze President has shown that Igbos were one united and indivisible people anywhere they belong across the country and beyond.

The chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum (Downstream), in a statement he personally signed on Saturday, urged the new president to lead Igbos to a new economic dawn.

“I heartily congratulate and identify with Distinguished Senator John Azuta-Mbata on his emergence as the new President-General of the Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide.

“His (Azuta-Mbata) emergence as President though from South-South geopolitical zone, other than the South-east, is a testimony and affirmation of the fact that Igbos are one united and indivisible people devoid of regional colouration.

“I am convinced beyond reasonable doubt that as a former lawmaker of the National Assembly’s Red Chamber, the new President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has impeccable credentials and requisite credentials to steer the affairs of the prominent Igbo socio-cultural organisation.

“I, therefore, appeal to Senator John Azuta-Mbata to deploy his wealth of experience and political cum leadership acumen to lead the Igbo race to a new economic dawn; fostering unity and peace.

“Accept, Distinguished, on behalf of the good people of Ideato North/South Federal Constituency of Imo State who I represent, the assurances of our support to enable you succeed in this critical role you have assumed for the unity, peace and prosperity of Igbo race,” Ugochinyere stated.

Opposition Lawmakers Coalition has celebrated the emergence of Senator John Azuta-Mbata as the new President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, the Igbo socio-cultural organisation.

Azuta-Mbata, a former Senator representing Rivers East Senatorial District, emerged on Friday at the selection of new executives for the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, held at the Old Government Lodge in Enugu.

In their congratulatory message signed by Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, the lawmakers urged the new President-General to use the platform to build more bridges for the emancipation of the Igbo race.

According to them, the emergence of the former lawmaker who hailed from Rivers State, South-South Nigeria, represents a significant milestone in the history of the organisation.

“We the Opposition Lawmakers Coalition congratulate and celebrate with Senator John Azuta-Mbata on his emergence as the new President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, the Igbo socio-cultural organisation.

“We are confident that as a former Senator, Azuta-Mbata brings extensive experience to his new position, having served as a senator for the Rivers East constituency from 1999 to 2007.

“It is historic that Senator John Azuta-Mbata who hailed from Rivers State, South-south Nigeria, represents a significant milestone in the history of the organisation. This shows that Igbos wherever they are resident are united in the common brotherhood and aspiration in the Nigerian project.

“We, therefore, urge him to use the platform to build more bridges for the emancipation of the Igbo race to enable them take thier rightful place in the scheme of things in the nation.

“While acknowledging the tremendous efforts in reconstruction, rehabilitation and reconciliation of the Igbo nation since 1970, the people are yet to attain it edoraldo and this particular selection presents another opportunity for the people to come together under one accord to foster peace, unity and progress.

“As a man who served the country in the apex legislature, it is given that Senator John Azuta-Mbata should be imbued with the skill of lobbying which is fundamental to taken to taken the Igbo nation to the new pedestal of national recognition.

“Once again, congratulations distinguished Senator John Azuta-Mbata, always count on our support as you take up the onerous task of leading the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide,” they stated.

Former Senator representing Rivers East Senatorial District, Senator John Azuta-Mbata, on Friday emerged as the new President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, a prominent Igbo socio-cultural organisation.

The position of Secretary-General was secured by the former Deputy Governor of Anambra State, Chief Emeka Sibeudu.

They were elected during the selection of new executives for the Igbo apex socio-cultural organisation, held at the Old Government Lodge in Enugu.

Azuta-Mbata was chosen as the 13th President-General through a voice vote, succeeding Fidelis Chukwu, whose tenure concluded on Friday.

Hailing from Rivers State in southern Nigeria, Azuta-Mbata’s election represents a significant milestone in the history of the organisation.

The election process was conducted via voice voting, and alongside Azuta-Mbata, 15 other individuals were elected to various executive positions within the organisation.

As a former senator, Azuta-Mbata brings extensive experience to his new role, having served as a senator for the Rivers East constituency from 1999 to 2007.

Speaking during the election, the host governor and Governor of Enugu State, Dr Peter Mbah, stressed the importance of unity and urged all to prioritise the collective interests of Ndigbo above individual or partisan concerns.

Mbah noted that the socio-political circumstances that led to the creation of the pan-Igbo body in the 1970s remain relevant today.

He praised past Igbo leaders such as Dr Michael Okpara, highlighting their achievements and how patriotism, altruism, and a sense of brotherhood underpinned their leadership.

He stated: “We may be gathered here for the crucial task of electing
members into the National Executive Committee of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, but this epic event offers an opportunity for introspection regarding the noble vision that inspired our forebears to establish this organisation.

“The ties that bind us run deep and transcend geographical boundaries, for we share a common history and cultural heritage. Our forebears understood that unity is a formidable force.

“From the Igbo Federal Union to the Igbo State Union and the Igbo Forum, which eventually became Ohanaeze Ndigbo in 1979, the motivation was always to forge unity and brotherhood amongst the Igbo.

“For them, the collective interest was paramount, not narrow interests shaped by party affiliations or boundaries.”

Mbah described Ohanaeze Ndigbo as the soul of the Igbo people, emphasising that unity remains critical for progress.

He added, “One of the simplest yet profound lessons about unity is the metaphor of a quiver of arrows. A single arrow can be broken easily, but a bundle of arrows is unyielding, even under pressure.

“Failing to unite leaves us vulnerable, but standing together gives us strength and resilience. Let us act collectively to achieve this goal—not merely through words but with our actions.”

In his brief acceptance speech, Senator Azuta-Mbata expressed gratitude to the governors of the region for their support and confidence. He also thanked Ndigbo and vowed not to disappoint them.

Speaking to Saturday TheNigerian, Archbishop Emmanuel Chukwuma, the retired Archbishop of the Enugu Anglican Communion, called on all Igbo people worldwide to support Azuta-Mbata in advancing Igbo interests.

He remarked: “The election was very smooth and well accepted by the Igbo people. The electoral committee did an excellent job, and there was no rancour. All the governors supported the process.

“There must now be unity, peace, and progress in Igbo land. Everyone elected today has significant responsibilities to ensure the unity of the Igbo people. Others should join hands to move forward.”

He prayed for God’s wisdom and guidance for the newly elected Ohanaeze leadership.

Former Inspector General of Police, Mike Okiro, has withdrawn from the race for the position of President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.

Okiro made the announcement during a press briefing in Enugu on Thursday.

He explained that his decision was in compliance with an Enugu State High Court order that barred him from contesting.

The court issued the injunction following a suit claiming Okiro is from Imo State, not Rivers State, where the position has been zoned.

Also, the Indigenous People of Biafra on Tuesday, rejected the proposition that Okiro, who is from Imo State, occupy the position.

Respecting the court’s decision, Okiro officially stepped down from the race.

He stated, “My dear brothers and sisters, I, Sir Mike Okiro CFR, President General Candidate for Ohanaeze Ndigbo Election slated for 10th January 2025 address you today with unwavering resolve. I have been made aware of the Enugu State High Court’s interim order, which regrettably restrains me from contesting the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide Presidency General Election tomorrow.

“The court order, based on alleged non-indigene status, contradicts verifiable facts. It is unfortunate that the court did not invite me or hear from me before giving that obnoxious order which I got from the media. The facts are (a) That I hail from Egbema in Rivers State as shown by my National Population Commission Attestation of Birth. (b) My Traditional Ruler, the Nzeobi of Egbema, has also confirmed my indigene status in Rivers State. (c) I have written many books where my indigeneship of Rivers State is shown in the author’s column. A good example is my best seller, titled: “Nigeria: The Restructuring ‘Controversy”.

“(d) Page 6 of my biography written by Mr. Dozie Okebalama also shows my indigeneship of Rivers. (e) I have attended many Imeobi meetings where I represented Rivers State in the attendance list compiled by the Secretary-General. (f) As a student at the University of Ibadan, I was a member of the Rivers State Students’ Association, where I was elected as Treasurer, and another Great UIte, now Distinguished Senator Andrew Uchendu was elected as Secretary. (g) I was representing Rivers State during the meetings of the South-South People’s Assembly under our respected leader, Chief Edwin Clark, where Prof. Pat. Utomi, another Great Nigerian, represented Delta State. My records and credentials speak for themselves.

“As an Igbo man and elder statesman of Rivers State Extraction whose said position has been zoned to by the electoral committee, I believe in the rule of law and shall respect the court’s order. My Obedience to court orders, no matter how unfavourable, demonstrates our commitment to democracy. I believe in the principles of the rule of law as the rule of law ensures our collective progress. The rule of law safeguards our society; its principles must be upheld and our democratic values are non-negotiable, together we will emerge stronger. Our stance for justice, due process and rule of law shall vindicate us.”

He added, “I will not participate in any election pending the final determination of the matter pending before Hon Justice N.R Oji of Enugu State High Court which court gave the restraining order. Although I’ve not been formally served with the suit/processes or order, my commitment to law and order remains unwavering, despite the fact that the reliefs granted in the order against me appears to undermine my fundamental right guaranteed in Chapter IV of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

“My distinguished career as Nigeria’s Inspector General of Police underscores my dedication to justice and what is noble. I have instructed the Chambers of Eze Okafor & Co, my lawyers to pursue the case to its logical conclusion to ensure that the purveyors of hate and lawlessness are brought to book in line with our enabling laws. As provided by our constitution, I demand to be heard, and I am sure that the court will ensure that the twin pillars of natural justice will be observed later in handling the case. We have not lost hope in our judicial system.

“I urge my immediate community Egbema, the entire Igbo-speaking people of Rivers state who are solidly behind me and all my supporters across Imo, Abia, Ebonyi, Enugu, Anambra, and Delta to stand by the rule of law throughout the period of this contest. Our resolve strengthens Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s unity and progress. Together, we’ll navigate this challenge. My Governor, His Excellency, Siminialayi Fubara GSSRS unwavering support is most highly appreciated and the same cannot be taken for granted. Your Excellency’s leadership indeed inspires me.

“Ohanaeze Ndigbo embodies Igbo unity, progress, and peaceful coexistence. Our organisation promotes harmony among Igbos worldwide. Let’s prioritise peace and unity. I reaffirm my commitment to Ohanaeze Ndigbo Ideals; unity, progress and peace in Igbo land. Justice shall prevail; Igbo unity and progress remain our guiding principles. I assure all of you that we shall overcome this minor setback as our democratic values are non-negotiable.”

A former Inspector General of Police, Sir Mike Okiro, has withdrawn from the race to occupy the position of President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex pan-Igbo sociopolitical organisation.

Okiro made the announcement during a press briefing in Enugu on Thursday.

He hinged his decision on the order of an Enugu State High Court barring him from contesting in the group’s election.

Read full text of his press briefing below:

“My dear brothers and sisters, I, Sir Mike Okiro CFR, President General Candidate for Ohanaeze Ndigbo Election slated for 10th January, 2025 address you today with unwavering resolve.

“I have been made aware of the Enugu State High Court’s interim order, which regrettably restrains me from contesting the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide Presidency General Election tomorrow.

“The court order, based on alleged non-indigene status, contradicts verifiable facts. It is unfortunate that the court did not invite me or heard from me before giving that obnoxious order which I got from the media. The facts are (a) That I hail from Egbema in Rivers State as shown by my National Population Commission Attestation of Birth. (b) My Traditional Ruler, the Nzeobi of Egbema, has also confirmed my indigene status of Rivers State. (c) I have written many books where my indigeneship of Rivers State is shown in the author’s column. A good example is my best seller, titled: “Nigeria: The Restructuring ‘Controversy”. (d) Page 6 of my biography written by Mr. Dozie Okebalama also shows my indigeneship of Rivers. (e) I have attended many Imeobi meetings where I represented Rivers State in the attendance list compiled by the Secretary-General. (f) As a student in the University of Ibadan, I was a member of the Rivers State Students’ Association, where I was elected as Treasurer, and another Great UIte, now Bistinguished Senator Andrew Uchendu was elected as Secretary. (g) I was representing Rivers State during the meetings of the South-South People’s Assembly under our respected leader, Chief Edwin Clark, where Prof. Pat. Utomi, another Great Nigerian, represented Delta State. My records and credentials speak for themselves.

“As an Igbo man and elder statesman of Rivers State Extraction which said position has been zoned to by the electoral committee, I believe in the rule of law and shall respect the court’s order.

“My Obedience to court orders, no matter how unfavorable, demonstrates our commitment to democracy. I believe in the principles of rule of law as the rule of law ensures our collective progress.

“The rule of law safeguards our society; its principles must be upheld, our democratic values are non-negotiable, together we will emerge stronger. Our stance for justice, due process and rule of law shall vindicate us.

“I will not participate in any election pending the final determination of the matter pending before Hon Justice N.R Oji of Enugu State High Court which court gave the restraining order.

“Although I’ve not been formally served with the suit/processes or order, my commitment to law and order remains unwavering, despite the fact that the reliefs granted in the order against me appears to undermine my fundamental right guaranteed in Chapter IV of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

“My distinguished career as Nigeria’s Inspector General of Police underscores my dedication to justice and what is noble.

“I have instructed the Chambers of Eze Okafor & Co, my lawyers to pursue the case to its logical conclusion to ensure that the purveyors of hate and lawlessness are brought to book in line with our enabling laws.

“As provided by our constitution, I demand to be heard, and I am sure that the court will ensure that the twin pillars of natural justice will be observed to the later in handling the case. We have not lost hope in our judicial system.

“I urge my immediate community Egbema, the entire Igbo speaking people of Rivers state who are solidly behind me and all my supporters across Imo, Abia, Ebonyi, Enugu, Anambra, and Delta to stand by the rule of law throughout the period of this contest.

“Our resolve strengthens Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s unity and progress. Together, we’ll navigate this challenge.

“My Governor, His Excellency, Siminialayi Fubara GSSRS unwavering support is most highly appreciated and same cannot be taken for granted. Your Excellency’s leadership indeed inspires me.

“Ohanaeze Ndigbo embodies Igbo unity, progress, and peaceful coexistence. Our organization promotes harmony among Igbos worldwide. Let’s prioritize peace and unity.

“I reaffirm my commitment to Ohanaeze Ndigbo Ideals; unity, progress and peace in Igbo land.

“Justice shall prevail; Igbo unity and progress remain our guiding principles.

“I assure all of you that we shall overcome this minor setback as our democratic values are non-negotiable.”

The Prince Dr. Richard Ozobu-led Ohanaeze Ndigbo 2025 Election Committee has announced new members of the National Executive Council (NEC) of the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation.

This was disclosed in a statement released on Monday by Dr Ozobu and the committee’s secretary, Prof. Chibuikeya Achokawa.

According to the statement, Dr. Jackson Omenazu from Rivers State emerged as the president general, while Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro from Abia State was named deputy president general.

Other members of the new leadership include Engr. Abbas Chinedu as secretary general, Chief Chinenyeze Thompson Ohia as national PRO/Spokesman, Ambassador Kingsley C. Ekwenye as national vice president general (Anambra), Chief Dr. Alexander Chikalue Okemiri as national vice president general (Ebonyi), Barr. Sylvester Nwogu as national vice president general (Imo), and Prof. Iheanacho Agboti as national legal adviser.

In his acceptance speech, Omenazu emphasized the historical significance of his election as the first President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo from Rivers State since the end of the Biafra war.

He described his emergence as a restoration of identity and justice for the indigenous Igbo people of Rivers State, noting that it marked the end of a prolonged identity crisis.

“This is a historic moment for our people. It signifies the reclamation of our identity and the reversal of injustices that have lingered for decades. Our selection is a testament to our unwavering commitment to our heritage and aspirations,” Omenazu declared.

Omenazu also vowed to prevent the organisation from being influenced by political interests, stressing that Ohanaeze Ndigbo would focus on advancing the collective interests of the Igbo people.

He added that the organisation would be funded through contributions from Igbo sons and daughters worldwide, ensuring its independence.

The new leadership outlined several priorities, including addressing insecurity in the Southeast, advocating for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, and pushing for the inclusion of ethnicity and religion in the 2025 census to ensure fair representation.

Omenazu also called for the demilitarisation of the Southeast, emphasising the need to create an environment of peace and safety.

He further highlighted the importance of restructuring Nigeria to reflect the aspirations of all ethnic groups, urging a review of the 1999 Constitution. Economic development was also a key focus, with plans to establish the AKU RUO ULO Industrial Business Hub to boost entrepreneurship and investment in Igboland.

 

 

Omenazu extended a call to the federal government to prioritize the dredging of Calabar Seaport, the development of the Azumiri Deep Blue Sea Port, and the reconstruction of critical railway infrastructure to enhance connectivity and economic growth in the region.

As the new leadership sets its agenda, internal divisions remain a concern.

Another election committee, led by Chief Ejiofor Onyia, is scheduled to hold a separate election on January 10, 2025.

This development could deepen the factionalisation that has affected Ohanaeze Ndigbo in recent years.

Onyia noted that amid these challenges, many are hopeful that the new leadership will focus on unity and steer the organisation toward effectively representing the interests of the Igbo people.