Senator John Azuta-Mbata, a former lawmaker representing Rivers East Senatorial District, has been elected as the new President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, the apex socio-cultural organization for the Igbo people.
Azuta-Mbata was chosen during an election held on Friday at the Old Government Lodge in Enugu, succeeding Fidelis Chukwu, whose tenure ended the same day.
Azuta-Mbata, the 13th President-General of the organization, was elected through a voice vote alongside 15 other executive members, including Chief Emeka Sibeudu, a former Deputy Governor of Anambra State, who emerged as Secretary-General.
The election was described as a historic moment, with Azuta-Mbata’s emergence symbolizing a new chapter for the organization
. A seasoned politician, Azuta-Mbata served as a senator for Rivers East from 1999 to 2007.
Dr. Peter Mbah, the Governor of Enugu State and host of the election, urged Igbos to prioritize collective interests over personal or partisan agendas.
Highlighting the socio-political reasons that birthed Ohanaeze in the 1970s, Mbah said those challenges remain relevant today.
“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 organization,” he stated.
Mbah praised past Igbo leaders like Dr. Michael Okpara, emphasizing their patriotism and sense of brotherhood.
He underscored the need for unity, likening it to the strength of a bundle of arrows.
“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,” Mbah noted.
He described Ohanaeze Ndigbo as the “soul of the Igbo people,” emphasizing that unity is critical for their progress and urging collective action beyond rhetoric.
In his acceptance speech, Senator Azuta-Mbata expressed gratitude to the governors of the Southeast and South-South regions for their confidence in him.
He also thanked Ndigbo for their support and pledged to uphold the trust reposed in him.
“I am deeply grateful for this opportunity and the support of our leaders and people. I promise not to disappoint Ndigbo as we work together for the progress of our great people,” Azuta-Mbata said.
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