Igbo Unity in the FCT: Ikenna Ezenekwe Calls for Solidarity Amid Tensions Over Ohanaeze Leadership

Engr. Ikenna Ellis Ezenekwe, the President General of the Igbo-speaking people in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, has called for a unified front among the Ikwere people of Rivers State following the election of Senator Azuta-Mbata as the new President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.

In a statement, Ezenekwe applauded the recent election process, highlighting that the outcome reflects the collective unity of the Igbo community. He noted that while there have been some tensions within the Ikwere community regarding Azuta-Mbata’s election, it is crucial for the entire Igbo-speaking population to support their new leader.

“Ikwere is Igbo, it has always been Igbo, and it will remain Igbo,” Ezenekwe asserted, emphasizing the need for all Igbo people to set aside any differences and rally behind Azuta-Mbata’s leadership. He called for an end to divisions and urged the people of Ikwere to foster a harmonious environment to ensure the continued success of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.

Reflecting on the broader implications of the election, Ezenekwe expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating, “We, the Igbo community in Abuja, are pleased with the results of the national election, as it signifies our unity across all Igbo-speaking regions – whether in Rivers, Delta, Imo, Ebonyi, Abia, Enugu, or Anambra States.”

A Rich History of Unity

Ezenekwe further emphasized the historical roots of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, recalling its formation in the 1930s in Lagos as the Lagos Igbo Union, and its transformation in 1948 into the Igbo State Union with the late Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe as its first President General. He described how the organization evolved and was officially renamed Ohanaeze Ndigbo in 1979 under the leadership of Dr. Francis Akanu from Afikpo, Ebonyi State.

“This organization is built on the foundation of unity, resilience, and shared goals,” he said. “As the newly-elected President General takes charge, it will be vital for him to continue steering the Igbo people through challenges and opportunities, ensuring that the interests of all Igbos are advanced on the global stage.”

Full Support from the Igbo Community in Abuja

Ezenekwe also extended the full support of the Igbo Community Association (ICA) in Abuja to the new leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo. He pledged that the ICA, which boasts over 78 grassroots units spread throughout the FCT, would work diligently to assist in realizing the goals set by the new Ohanaeze leadership.

“We, at the Igbo Community Association in Abuja, understand the importance of standing united against any challenges facing our people,” Ezenekwe affirmed. “Our grassroots strength will be a key asset in supporting the new leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.”