In line with its continuing consultative engagement with key stakeholders across the nation, the National Executive Committee (NEC) of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, led by President General Senator John Azuta Mbata, has met with the South East caucus of the Senate, headed by Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe.
Dr. Ezechi Chukwu, the Publicity Secretary and Spokesman of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, stated that the meeting took place at Senator Abaribe’s residence in the Apo Legislative Quarters, Abuja, on 17th March 2024. It was attended by both members of the Ohanaeze NEC and the South East Senate caucus.
In his address, the President General expressed the NEC’s gratitude to the lawmakers and explained that the meeting was part of a stakeholder engagement programme aimed at reinforcing their shared interests and goals for the betterment of Ndigbo and the nation as a whole.
Senator Mbata emphasised the significance of the high-level Ohanaeze delegation’s presence, underscoring the importance of their visit.
“There is a need for a symbiotic relationship and engagement to promote and protect the interests of Ndigbo,” he stated.
While commending the Senators for their strong voices in the National Assembly, the President General also assured them of Ohanaeze’s ongoing collaborative support on key issues.
In response, Senator Abaribe, speaking on behalf of the caucus, expressed his gratitude to the Ohanaeze delegation. He conveyed the caucus’s commitment to supporting Ohanaeze and highlighted that both groups share a mission of service to the Igbo nation.
He further assured the Ohanaeze delegation that the caucus consistently speaks with one voice on matters crucial to the well-being of the Igbo community.
Supporting Senator Abaribe’s remarks, Deputy Chief Whip and Senator representing Ebonyi North, Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi, expressed his confidence in their leadership. He urged Ohanaeze to continue championing the cause of the Igbo nation globally, stressing the importance of unity behind Ohanaeze as its representative.
Senator Victor Umeh, representing Anambra Central District, expressed his confidence in Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide under Senator Mbata’s leadership. He assured the President General and his delegation that the caucus would adhere to all collaborative agreements established during the meeting. Other lawmakers contributing to the discussions included Senator Ezenwa Onyewuchi from Imo East, Senator Ken Eze from Ebonyi Central, Senator Patrick Ndubueze from Imo North, Senator Osita Ngwu from Enugu West, Senator Austin Akobundu from Abia Central, and Senator Kelvin Chukwu from Enugu East.
In his Vote of Thanks, Deputy President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Prince Okey Nwadinobi, conveyed the gratitude of Ndigbo to the assembly members, reaffirming the commitment of the Senator Mbata-led Ohanaeze to the overall well-being of the Igbo nation. Other attendees from Ohanaeze NEC included: His Excellency Mr. Emeka Sibeudu, Secretary General; Dr. Ngozi Olejeme, Vice President General – Delta; Dr. Peter Mbam, Vice President General – Ebonyi; Chief John Duru, Vice President General – Imo; Dr. Ezechi Chukwu, National Publicity Secretary; Mr. Charles Nkata, National Financial Secretary; Mazi Bismark Orji, Assistant National Publicity Secretary; and Mrs. Nene Jane Nwangele, Assistant National Financial Secretary.
