The Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has emphasized the importance of a united front among Ndigbo, urging individuals to prioritize the collective interest of the Igbo people over partisan politics and narrow personal agendas.
Speaking at the election of the new national leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Enugu on Friday, Mbah highlighted the enduring relevance of the socio-political circumstances that led to the founding of the pan-Igbo organization in the 1970s.
Mbah praised iconic Igbo leaders such as Dr. Michael Okpara, commending their patriotism and selflessness, which he said demonstrated the power of unity in leadership.
“We are gathered here for the crucial task of electing members into the National Executive Committee of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide. Yet, this epic event offers an opportunity for reflection on the noble vision that inspired our forebears in its founding,” Mbah stated.
He described Ohanaeze Ndigbo as the “soul of the Igbo people,” emphasizing its unifying force and its role in fostering a sense of brotherhood across geographical boundaries. “From the Igbo Federal Union to the Igbo State Union, and eventually to Ohanaeze Ndigbo in 1979, the goal has always been unity and deep brotherhood among the Igbo,” he added.
Mbah stressed that the lessons of unity are as crucial today as they were decades ago. Drawing on the metaphor of a quiver of arrows, he illustrated how collective strength offers resilience, whereas disunity leaves a group vulnerable.
“One single arrow can be broken easily, but a stack of arrows stands firm even under pressure. It is in our collective interest to work towards unity – not through wishes but through deliberate actions,” he urged.
He also called for a statesmanlike approach, noting that the vision of Igbo leaders in the past went beyond partisan politics. “Our founders appreciated the need to rise above political differences when unity beckoned,” he said, pointing to the legacy of the Eastern Region’s leaders who made lasting impacts across various cities and regions.
At the election, Senator John Azuta-Mbata, a lawyer and former Rivers East Senatorial District representative, was elected the new President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide. Chief Emeka Sibeudu, a former deputy governor of Anambra State, emerged as the new Secretary-General.
Mbah concluded by urging Ndigbo to fully embrace the value of unity, ensuring that their collective voice remains a powerful force for progress.
