***Advocates Unity Across Borders
The President General of the Igbo Community Association (ICA) in Abuja, Engr. Ikenna Ellis Ezenekwe, has lauded the election of Senator John Azuta-Mbata as the new President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide.
In his congratulatory message, Ezenekwe, widely regarded as “Agbachikala Nanka,” described the election as a milestone for Igbo unity, calling on all Igbo-speaking people to rally behind their new leader.
In a statement released on January 19, 2025, Ezenekwe emphasized the importance of solidarity among Igbo people, irrespective of their geographical location. He noted that Senator Azuta-Mbata’s emergence reflects a collective commitment to advancing the Igbo cause, both within Nigeria and globally.
“We, Ndị Igbo in Abuja, celebrate this outcome as a testament to our shared identity and resilience,” the statement read. Ezenekwe urged the Igbo people of Rivers State, Senator Azuta-Mbata’s home state, to extend their unwavering support to the new Ohanaeze leadership, stressing that unity is crucial in navigating challenges and seizing opportunities.
He also addressed recent tensions within the Ikwerre community of Rivers State, urging reconciliation and reiterating the shared linguistic and cultural heritage of the Ikwerre and the larger Igbo family.
“Ikwere is Igbo. It has always been Igbo, and will remain Igbo. This is not a time for divisions but for solidarity,” Ezenekwe declared.
Reflecting on the evolution of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Ezenekwe recounted its roots in the Lagos Igbo Union of the 1930s, its transformation into the Igbo State Union in 1948, and its eventual rebranding as Ohanaeze Ndigbo in 1979. He described the organization’s history as a testament to the Igbo people’s resilience, unity, and commitment to collective progress.
He further commended Senator Azuta-Mbata’s impressive credentials and urged him to draw on his extensive experience to address the needs of the Igbo people globally.
Engr. Ezenekwe pledged the ICA’s full support for the new Ohanaeze leadership, highlighting the association’s grassroots network of over 78 units across the Federal Capital Territory. He emphasized the need for collaboration to tackle challenges facing the Igbo nation.
“As the President General of Ndigbo in the Federal Capital Territory, I and the ICA are committed to supporting and cooperating with the new leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo. Our unity is our strength,” Ezenekwe affirmed.
Ezenekwe’s congratulatory message has been described by many as more than a mere endorsement of Senator Azuta-Mbata’s election. It is seen as a rallying cry for Igbo people worldwide to strengthen their bonds, promote inclusivity, and work collectively toward the common good.
With the leadership of Senator Azuta-Mbata and the unwavering support of organizations like the ICA, the Igbo nation stands poised to embark on a new era of progress, unity, and global influence.