Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has commended the peaceful emergence of the new leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, describing their victory as a testament to the strength and unity of the Igbo people.
Speaking in Enugu during a visit by the newly inaugurated National Executive Committee led by President-General Senator John Azuta-Mbata, Mbah emphasized the importance of a united front in addressing the challenges faced by the Igbo nation.
“This is not just a personal triumph,” Mbah stated. “It is a collective victory for Ndigbo worldwide. The rancor-free election demonstrates a solid succession pattern in Ohanaeze, and I commend my fellow governors for recognizing the importance of this body to our collective identity.”
A Peaceful Election, A Unified Vision
The election of the Ohanaeze leadership last Friday marked a historic moment for the pan-Igbo organization. The process, lauded for its peace and transparency, saw the emergence of leaders with proven credentials and a strong commitment to the Igbo cause.
Mbah reflected on the significance of the peaceful process, stressing that it was a clear indication of the Igbo people’s readiness to unite for the common good. He likened the unity of Ndigbo to a metaphorical arrow, saying, “A single arrow can break, but a quiver of arrows remains unbroken. Similarly, a broomstick can snap easily, but a bunch of broomsticks is unyielding. This is the strength we must harness as a people.”
Challenges Ahead for Ndigbo
Acknowledging the leadership experience and intellectual acumen of the newly elected executives, Mbah urged them to tackle the existential threats facing the Igbo nation. From economic marginalization to social and political challenges, he noted that Ndigbo’s survival and prosperity depend on collective action.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo represents the soul of our people,” Mbah said. “We are full of expectations, and we pray for God’s wisdom and strength to guide you as you pilot the affairs of the Igbo nation.”
A Vote of Confidence in Leadership
Senator John Azuta-Mbata, the new President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, expressed gratitude for the support received from Governor Mbah and other Igbo leaders. He acknowledged the pivotal roles played by the governors in ensuring the election’s success and pledged to deliver on the collective mandate of the Igbo people.
“Your presence at our swearing-in ceremony, along with your fellow governors, was unprecedented and deeply encouraging,” Azuta-Mbata remarked. “We assure you that we will not let Ndigbo down. The unprecedented support we have received inspires us to work tirelessly for our people.”
Mbah’s Call for Igbo Solidarity
Governor Mbah’s remarks underscored the broader need for solidarity among the Igbo people. He called on the new Ohanaeze leadership to prioritize unity in their agenda, emphasizing that a divided Igbo nation would struggle to overcome its challenges.
He reminded the leaders of their collective responsibility, saying, “This is an onerous task that begins now. We must forge a united front to resolve the challenges confronting us. Together, we are stronger.”
Background on Ohanaeze Ndigbo
Founded in 1976, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide serves as the apex socio-cultural organization for the Igbo people. It has long been a platform for articulating the interests of Ndigbo within and beyond Nigeria. The organization has faced challenges in recent years, including internal leadership disputes and a fragmented approach to addressing the region’s pressing issues.
The recent election, hailed as a turning point, saw the emergence of leaders committed to restoring the organization’s prestige and effectiveness.
Enugu’s Role in Igbo Affairs
Enugu State has historically played a central role in Igbo affairs, serving as a hub for political and cultural activities. Governor Mbah’s administration has continued this legacy by fostering unity and championing the cause of Ndigbo. His active involvement in the Ohanaeze election reflects a broader commitment to regional development and solidarity.
The Path Forward
As the new leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo assumes office, the Igbo nation faces significant hurdles, from economic disparities to political marginalization. The call for unity echoed by Governor Mbah and other leaders signals a renewed determination to address these challenges collectively.
For the Igbo people, the emergence of credible and competent leaders offers a glimmer of hope. Whether this translates into tangible progress depends on the ability of the new executives to rally support and implement a coherent vision for Ndigbo’s future.
Governor Mbah’s words resonate as a rallying cry: “Ohanaeze represents the soul of Ndigbo. Together, we can confront any challenge and emerge stronger. Our strength lies in our unity.”
