Ohanaeze Elects Senator Azuta-Mbata New President General. 

The apex Igbo sociocultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has elected Senator John Azuta-Mbata, a former representative of Rivers East senatorial district, as its new president-general.

Azuta-Mbata, who hails from Obio Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, assumes leadership following the tenure completion of Fidelis Ozichukwu Chukwu. This development aligns with the rotational principle, as it is Rivers State’s turn to hold the position.

The election, held on Friday, January 10, 2025, at the Old Government Lodge in Enugu, Enugu State, produced new executive members through a consensus process. Azuta-Mbata’s emergence marks a pivotal moment for the Igbo community, emphasizing inclusivity and regional representation within Igbo-speaking areas.

The process, conducted via voice voting, also saw the election of 15 other individuals to various executive roles in the organization.

Senator Azuta-Mbata, who served as senator for Rivers East from 1999 to 2007, brings a wealth of experience to the role. In his acceptance speech, he expressed gratitude to the delegates for their trust and vowed to foster unity among the Igbo people while addressing key challenges.

The election was graced by prominent Igbo leaders, including Governors Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, Alex Otti of Abia State, Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State, and Peter Mbah of Enugu State, alongside other eminent personalities.