By Our Reporter
John Azuta-Mbata, a former Senator for Rivers East, has been elected as the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide.
The election, held on 10 January 2025 at the Old Government Lodge in Enugu, saw unanimous support from delegates from Rivers State, who nominated Azuta-Mbata for the position. His election follows the zoning of the office to Rivers State after the death of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, who represented Imo State.
Azuta-Mbata, the first Ikwerre native to represent Rivers East in the Senate under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) during Nigeria’s Fourth Republic, assumes leadership of the influential Igbo socio-cultural group at a critical time.
In his acceptance speech, Azuta-Mbata thanked delegates for their trust and pledged to promote unity among the Igbo people while addressing key challenges facing the community.
His election marks a significant step in enhancing inclusivity and regional representation within the Igbo-speaking regions.