The governor of Enugu State, Dr Peter Mbah, used Friday’s election for the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo to preach unity among the Igbo nation.
He emphasized the importance of a strong and united front among Ndigbo and urged everyone to prioritize Igbo interests over narrow personal agendas and partisan politics.
The election took place at the Ohanaeze Ndigbo secretariat in Enugu, regarded as the political capital of Eastern Nigeria.
The host governor told the gathering of eminent citizens of Igbo extraction, which included at least four of the five governors of the South East zone, that the socio-political circumstances that gave rise to the pan-Igbo organization remain relevant today in Nigeria, just as they did in the 1970s.
He praised the leadership qualities of notable Igbo leaders, such as Dr Michael Okpara. He said his effective leadership was anchored in patriotism, altruism, and a sense of brotherhood—virtues that will lead the Igbos to exceptional progress.
“We may be gathered here for the important task of electing members to the National Executive Committee of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, but this moment also provides an opportunity for introspection regarding the noble vision that inspired our founders,” he stated.
“The ties that bind us are deep and transcend geographical boundaries, as we share a common history and cultural heritage. Our predecessors understood this, recognizing that unity is a formidable force.
“From the Igbo Federal Union to the Igbo State Union and the Igbo Forum, which eventually led to the formation of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in 1979, the motivation has always been to foster unity and brotherhood among the Igbo people.
“For our ancestors, collective interest was paramount—above any narrow interests shaped by party affiliation or regional boundaries.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo symbolizes the essence of our people. It is firmly grounded in the belief that we are stronger together, and this spirit of unity is our greatest strength.
“The socio-political context that led to the founding of Ohanaeze Ndigbo remains just as significant today as it was in the 1970s. We have never needed this organization more than we do now.
“Our founders were visionary leaders who gave us a glimpse of what can be achieved when brotherhood is the foundation of leadership.
“The Premiers of the old Eastern Region, who governed from this location, left an indelible mark, seen not only in Enugu but also in cities like Port Harcourt, Abakaliki, Owerri, Aba, Onitsha, and Umuahia.
“That is the essence of true statesmanship. Our forebears were statesmen who understood the importance of rising above partisan politics when unity was called for.
“We will undoubtedly achieve far more when we embrace the value of speaking as a collective voice rather than as isolated and discordant individuals.“
Mbah reiterated the significance of unity in achieving Igbo collective interests, saying, “One of the simplest yet most profound lessons illustrating the importance of unity is the quiver of arrows metaphor. A single arrow can be easily broken, but a bundle of arrows remains strong even under significant pressure.
“In summary, failing to unite renders us vulnerable like a single arrow. However, standing together gives us the resilience of the entire bundle. We must strive to be like a stack of arrows.
“It is in our collective interest to work toward that goal—not through mere wishes but through our actions.”
The election passed peacefully and orderly. Lawyer and former lawmaker Senator John Azuta-Mbata, from Rivers State, won the election and became the new President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide.
Chief Emeka Sibeudu, a former deputy governor of Anambra State, was elected as the new Secretary-General.
Comment, Like 👍, share this article, and Follow us on our social media handles.
WhatsApp Channel
Telegram Channel
