In a landmark election held on January 10, 2025, at the Old Government Lodge in Enugu, John Azuta-Mbata, a former Senator for Rivers East constituency, was unanimously elected as the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide. Delegates from Rivers State threw their full support behind Azuta-Mbata’s candidacy, cementing his place as the leader of the influential Igbo socio-cultural organization.
Azuta-Mbata’s rise to this prestigious position follows the passing of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, who had represented Imo State in the role. His election also marks a significant milestone in the quest for inclusivity, with the position having been zoned to Rivers State.
In his acceptance speech, Azuta-Mbata, the first Ikwerre native to serve as the Senator for Rivers East under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the delegates for their trust and confidence. He pledged to work towards fostering unity among the Igbo people, addressing key challenges facing the community, and reinforcing regional representation across Igbo-speaking regions.
His emergence is viewed as a pivotal moment for Ohanaeze, as it seeks to strengthen its position as a powerful voice in advocating for the interests and welfare of the Igbo people in Nigeria and the diaspora.
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