During the election of a new national leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Governor of Enugu State called for a renewed commitment to Igbo unity and the prioritisation of collective interest above partisan politics and narrow affiliations.
While congratulating Senator John Azuta-Mbata and Chief Emeka Sibeudu on their emergence as President-General and Secretary-General respectively, the Governor emphasised that the socio-political circumstances that led to the formation of Ohanaeze in the 1970s remain as relevant today as ever.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo represents the soul of the people, a testament to the enduring vision of its forebears, who understood that unity is a formidable force. From the Igbo Federal Union to the Igbo State Union, and now Ohanaeze, our collective strength has always been rooted in our sense of brotherhood and shared purpose.
We will certainly achieve far more when we fully embrace the value of speaking as a collective voice – not as lone, discordant voices. Like a quiver of arrows, our strength lies in unity.
Let us draw inspiration from the leadership pedigrees of Igbo leaders such as Dr Michael Okpara, the Premier of the old Eastern Region, who demonstrated how much could be achieved when patriotism and statesmanship are at the core of leadership. Now, more than ever, we must channel that spirit to achieve our collective aspirations and bring development across Ala Igbo.