As Ikwerre People’s Congress Congratulates Senator Mbata
Ogbakor Ikwerre, a global cultural organization representing the Ikwerre people, has issued a strong denial of statements circulating on social media that target Senator John Azuta Mbata, the newly elected President-General of Ohanaeze Ndi-Igbo Worldwide.
In a statement titled “Refutal” and signed by Chief Emehuru Festus, National Publicity Secretary of Ogbakor Ikwerre, the organization clarified its stance. It stated:
“The attention of Ogbakor Ikwerre Cultural Organization Worldwide has been drawn to a publication on social media disclaiming Senator Mbata. The leadership of the apex socio-cultural body of the Ikwerre ethnic nation was not aware of the said publication, which was issued without the consent or approval of our President-General, Eze Barr. Godspower Onuekwa, PhD, Justice of Peace.”
The statement further explained that Ogbakor Ikwerre has held multiple discussions regarding Senator Mbata’s participation in the Ohanaeze Ndi-Igbo elections. The organization expressed dismay over false media reports attributed to unnamed individuals who fraudulently used the President-General’s name to propagate misinformation.
Calling the report “baseless, frivolous, and unethical,” Ogbakor Ikwerre urged the public to disregard the claims entirely.
Celebrating Leadership Milestones
Meanwhile, the Ikwerre People’s Congress (IPC) Worldwide, the apex sociopolitical organization of the Ikwerre people, has extended warm congratulations to Senator John Azuta Mbata and Livingstone Wechie for their recent leadership achievements.
In a statement signed by Engr. Stanley Worgu, Secretary-General of IPC Worldwide, the organization praised Senator Mbata’s historic election and inauguration as the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndi-Igbo Worldwide. The event, held on January 10, 2025, in Enugu, marked a significant milestone for the Ikwerre and Igbo communities, as Mbata, a former acting President of the Nigerian Senate, assumes leadership of a global Igbo community exceeding 80 million people.
Additionally, IPC commended Livingstone Wechie for his inauguration as President of the Ohanaeze Ndi-Igbo Rivers State chapter. They lauded his patriotism and leadership, encouraging stakeholders to support his vision for uniting the over eight million Igbos in Rivers State.
The IPC also acknowledged the vital role played by Governor Siminalayi Fubara in supporting Senator Mbata’s emergence as President-General. The organization called on the Ikwerre community worldwide to unite behind their leaders and seize this “golden opportunity of a lifetime” to advance their collective aspirations.
“As arguably the largest Igbo group, Ikwerre’s leadership of Ndi-Igbo Worldwide is both historic and profoundly significant. The Ikwerre people across the globe are immensely proud of these achievements,” the statement emphasized.
The IPC concluded by pledging its commitment to fostering unity and collaboration among both riverine and hinterland Igbo communities, ensuring a successful and impactful tenure for these newly elected leaders.
