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John Azuta Mbata
Senator John Azuta-Mbata

The President-General of the Igbo socio-political organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Senator John Mbata, has firmly stated that nothing will ever diminish his Igbo identity, describing recent criticisms directed at him as stemming from a lack of understanding.

He emphasised his commitment to supporting Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and to respecting the gubernatorial office.

Mbata made these remarks during a courtesy visit from the Opobo Elder Statesmen-4-Sim in Port Harcourt on Monday.

He shrugged off the recent criticisms, labelling them as mere noise from those who do not comprehend the situation.

He declared, “I see my responsibility as building bridges. We must connect our people to a broader platform for development,” reiterating his pride in his Igbo identity and the significance of unity among all ethnic groups.

The Ohanaeze President-General stated, “Some may claim their ancestry is from Benin, and that’s perfectly fine. However, we maintain that our relationship with the Igbo is undeniable. I will not renounce my Igbo heritage.

“No matter how much you shout, I will not deny my roots.

“We are interconnected. Why try to silence me? I assure you that this noise will eventually fade. I choose not to respond because I believe my role is to build bridges. In time, people will understand our efforts.

“We must engage at the highest level of this Nigerian project. We need to access the corridors of power.

“We require support from various perspectives. Politics is played in Abuja, not here. Decisions made in Abuja affect us here. I won’t divulge everything today; as the saying goes, a word is enough for the wise.”

Earlier, Edwin Cockeye-Brown, Chairman of Opobo Elder Statesmen-4-Sim, congratulated Senator Mbata on his recent electoral victory and expressed appreciation for his unwavering support for Governor Fubara throughout the election process.

Cockeye-Brown remarked, “I remember vividly how you stood firmly by the governor during the impeachment attempt, unwavering and resolute in your support.”

He also mentioned the long-standing relationship between the Mbata family and the Opobo people, tracing it back to the late Elder Samuel Mbata, a revered gentleman and evangelist.

Cockeye-Brown noted that the gathering, which included respected elders, leaders, Senibos, Amaopusenibos, and youth representatives from Opobo, highlighted their shared commitment to unity within the state.

“Your father was a man of prayer and philanthropy. I believe it is his prayers that have brought you to this moment,” he added.

Cockeye-Brown commended Mbata’s resilience during political challenges, asserting that his election as President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo was a divine blessing.

In response, Rivers State Chairman of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Livingstone Wechie, described the visit as historic, celebrating Senator Mbata’s leadership role for over one hundred million Ndigbo around the globe.

Wechie remarked, “This visit is both historic and prophetic. The Ikwerre people will welcome this news with joy.

“Today, we honour the tallest Ikwerre son, both in stature and in standing, entrusted with the leadership of over one hundred million Ndigbo worldwide.

“This is the stone that was rejected by the builders, now the chief cornerstone,” Wechie declared, pledging ongoing support for Governor Fubara.

Earlier, while introducing the visiting delegation, Chief Lawrence Oko-Jaja, SAN, expressed that they had come as both family and comrades to pay their respects to Senator John Azuta Mbata, underscoring the essential nature of unity and collaboration among communities.

Oko-Jaja praised Senator Mbata’s integrity and commitment to advancing the interests of his Ikwerre people, both locally and globally.

The delegation conveyed their eagerness to collaborate in promoting peace, development, and cultural heritage, reinforcing their belief that under Senator Mbata’s leadership, Ohanaeze Ndigbo will continue to thrive and serve as a powerful voice for its people.

1 COMMENT

  1. Perfect! Congratulations to Senator John Azuta Mbata for the well deserved election to the highest position in the Igbo race.

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