By Okechukwu Keshi Ukegbu
A chieftain of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide and President of the Abia Chapter, Dr. Chukwuemeka Okwuonu, has described the recent election of Senator John Azuta-Mbata as the President-General of Ohanaeze Worldwide as a vindication of the claim that the Igbo heritage extends to parts of Delta and Rivers States.
Senator Mbata’s election to the prestigious position last week has drawn attention to the broader Igbo presence in the region. According to Dr. Okwuonu, “The election puts to shame anyone who has discredited the claim that Igbo roots do not extend to parts of Rivers and Delta States.”
He called on all Igbos in the seven states of Nigeria to unite as one body and forge a common front in the political and economic landscape of the country. He emphasized that “it is time for the Igbos to reclaim their leading roles in the Nigerian project.”
Dr. Okwuonu also expressed his appreciation for the involvement of the governors in the process, noting that it signals strong unity among the Igbo people.
While praising Governor Alex Otti as an Igbo icon and a symbol of the Igbo spirit of success and enterprise, Dr. Okwuonu also thanked him for his vision and support for Ohanaeze. He commended Governor Otti for running an inclusive government that ensures Igbos and non-Igbos from other states are well represented.
