Governor Mbah Calls for Igbo Unity as Azuta-Mbata Emerges Ohanaeze Ndigbo President-General
● Ferdy Agu
Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, has called on Ndigbo to prioritize collective interests over narrow, partisan politics, emphasizing the need for a united front in addressing contemporary challenges. The governor made this appeal during the election of the new national leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Enugu on Friday.
Governor Mbah highlighted the enduring relevance of the socio-political conditions that led to the formation of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, stating that the organization’s founding principles are just as crucial today as they were in the 1970s. He urged the Igbo people to draw inspiration from past leaders like Dr. Michael Okpara, who demonstrated the power of unity and patriotism.
“Our gathering here today for the election of the National Executive Committee of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide is not only about selecting new leaders but also a moment for reflection on the vision that inspired our forebears,” Mbah said. He underscored the deep cultural and historical ties that unite the Igbo people, transcending geographical boundaries.
Tracing the evolution of Igbo unity organizations, Mbah noted that the journey from the Igbo Federal Union to the Igbo State Union, and later Ohanaeze Ndigbo in 1979, was driven by the desire to foster brotherhood and collective progress. He emphasized that the collective interest should outweigh narrow, partisan concerns.
Senator Azuta-Mbata president general of Ohanaeze Ndigbo
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo represents the soul of our people, firmly anchored in the belief that we are stronger together,” the governor declared. He stressed that the unity envisioned by the organization’s founders is essential for overcoming present-day challenges.
Governor Mbah praised the legacy of Igbo leaders who left lasting impacts across the Eastern Region, demonstrating statesmanship that prioritized collective progress over individual or political gains. He urged contemporary leaders to emulate this spirit of unity and collaboration.
Reiterating the importance of unity, Mbah used the metaphor of a quiver of arrows to illustrate the strength found in togetherness. “A single arrow can be broken easily, but a stack of arrows remains firm under pressure,” he explained, urging Ndigbo to stand united.
At the peaceful election, Senator John Azuta-Mbata, a lawyer and former Rivers East Senatorial District representative, was elected as the new President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide. Chief Emeka Sibeudu, a former deputy governor of Anambra State, was elected as the new Secretary-General.
The newly elected leaders are expected to continue the legacy of fostering unity and advancing the collective interests of the Igbo people, in line with the vision articulated by Governor Mbah. GMTNewsng
