The prestigious Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, the apex socio-cultural organization for the Igbo people, has entered a contentious new era as Senator John Azuta-Mbata was elected President-General during a convention held on January 10, 2025, in Enugu. However, what should have been a unifying milestone for the organization has been overshadowed by allegations of factionalism, with a parallel claim to leadership from Barrister Uche Okwukwu.
Azuta-Mbata’s Historic Victory
Senator Azuta-Mbata, a former representative of the Rivers East constituency under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), emerged as President-General after delegates at the Old Government Lodge in Enugu voiced unanimous support for his candidacy. This marks a significant milestone for the Ikwerre people of Rivers State, as Azuta-Mbata becomes the first from his ethnic group to lead Ohanaeze Ndigbo. His election follows the zoning of the position to Rivers State, in the aftermath of the death of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, who represented Imo State.
Addressing delegates and observers after his victory, Azuta-Mbata expressed profound gratitude. “This is not just a victory for Rivers State but for every Igbo person committed to unity, inclusivity, and progress. I am determined to address the challenges facing our people with courage and purpose,” he said.
He further pledged to work towards fostering unity among Igbo-speaking regions and tackling critical socio-economic issues confronting the community.
Factional Trouble Looms
While Azuta-Mbata’s election was celebrated by many, it was quickly marred by reports of another leadership claim. Barrister Uche Okwukwu, a former Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, was declared President by another faction of the group. The details of Okwukwu’s emergence remain unclear, but his claim has already sparked controversy and raised fears of division within the organization.
Adding to the complexity, another faction had on January 5, 2025, declared Chief Dr. Jackson Omenazu, also from Rivers State, as President in a separate election. These parallel declarations have led some to question the integrity of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo leadership process.
Ikwerre’s Path to Recognition
The decision to zone the Ohanaeze leadership to Rivers State is viewed as a strategic effort to reintegrate the Ikwerre people into the broader Igbo fold. Historically, the Ikwerre registered as a distinct ethnic group following the Nigerian Civil War, citing grievances over alleged marginalization by the Igbo hinterland during the conflict.
Azuta-Mbata’s rise is therefore seen as a symbolic victory for reconciliation and inclusivity within Igboland. However, the factional disputes now threaten to undermine this progress.
Political Allegiances Fuel Division
Observers have pointed to political loyalties as a major factor in the unfolding drama. Sources allege that Azuta-Mbata enjoys the backing of President Bola Tinubu and his allies, who reportedly rallied behind his candidacy to secure consensus support. Conversely, Okwukwu is said to have ties to former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, positioning him as the leader of a “radical faction” within Ohanaeze Ndigbo.
This political undercurrent has raised concerns about external influences compromising the organization’s mission of promoting Igbo unity.
A Call for Unity
The Enugu convention, which produced Azuta-Mbata, was attended by five governors from the South-East, as well as notable Igbo leaders and stakeholders. Despite these high-profile endorsements, the leadership dispute risks eroding the confidence of the Igbo people in their socio-cultural institution.
Speaking on the matter, a concerned delegate who preferred anonymity remarked, “Ohanaeze Ndigbo is supposed to unify us, not divide us. This factionalism is a dangerous trend that could weaken our collective voice.”
Azuta-Mbata has called on all stakeholders to prioritize unity. “We cannot afford to let differences tear us apart. The challenges facing our people—economic instability, security concerns, and cultural preservation—demand a united front,” he stated.
