Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has extended his congratulations to Senator John Azuta-Mbata on his election as President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, the leading Igbo socio-cultural organization.
In a statement signed by his Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, and issued on Saturday, Atiku, the Waziri of Adamawa, also congratulated other members of the new executive team expected to lead the organization.
He praised the peaceful and credible election held in Enugu State on Friday, acknowledging the exemplary leadership of the South East Governors’ Forum in ensuring a free and fair election and a smooth transition. Atiku highlighted the lessons to be learned from the alliance forged by participants despite their political diversity.
The 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) echoed the sentiments of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, stating that Azuta-Mbata’s victory marks a significant moment for the organization and signals a new era of progress, unity, and development.
Atiku noted that the Azuta-Mbata-led executive is well aware of the divisions that have plagued the nation and urged them to work diligently at uniting Ndigbo around shared values. He also encouraged collaboration with other similar socio-cultural organizations to establish a new regime of unity.
He emphasized the importance of promoting tolerance and inter-communal relations to foster peace, which is essential for stability and development.
Atiku stated that promoting unity and peace is crucial in addressing Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges and improving the well-being of Nigerians.
He expressed confidence in Azuta-Mbata’s experience as a lawmaker and administrator, along with the collective expertise of the new executive, to deliver on their mandate.
Atiku wished Azuta-Mbata and his team a successful tenure for the benefit of Ndigbo and Nigeria as a whole.
