The emergence of Senator John Azuta Mbata as the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has sparked controversy in Rivers State, particularly among the Ikwerre ethnic group. The Ogbakor Ikwerre Cultural Organisation Worldwide has responded by stripping Senator Mbata of all chieftaincy titles and honours previously bestowed on him.
In a statement released in Port Harcourt, Eze Godspower Onuekwain, President-General of the Ogbakor Ikwerre Cultural Organisation, emphasized that the Ikwerre people are distinct from the Igbo ethnic group and will not align themselves with Igbo identity or culture. The decision, he explained, was necessary following Senator Mbata’s acceptance of the Ohanaeze leadership position.
“Senator John Azuta-Mbata has the inalienable right to belong to any association of his choice as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria,” Eze Onuekwain said. “However, by becoming the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, an exclusive organization of Igbo people, he has willingly renounced his identity as an Ikwerre man.”
Eze Onuekwain further stated that Senator Mbata’s decision was made without the consent of his community, Apara Kingdom, or the entire Ikwerre ethnic nationality. “As an Igbo man, he is now seen and regarded as a stranger living in Ikwerre land. He is barred from participating in any Ikwerre gatherings, meetings, or political representation,” the statement declared. The Ogbakor Ikwerre also revoked all titles, honours, and awards previously given to him by Ikwerre organizations.
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Divided Opinions in Rivers State
The controversy has drawn mixed reactions from various groups and individuals in Rivers State. The Committee of Rivers Patriots (CRP) criticized Ogbakor Ikwerre’s decision, emphasizing that membership in the cultural organization is voluntary. The group, led by its President, Engineer Datubo Georgewill, argued that Senator Mbata contested for the Ohanaeze position as a Rivers State indigene, not as a representative of any cultural organization.
“Senator John Azuta-Mbata did not run for the presidency of Ohanaeze Ndigbo on the platform of any cultural group. Therefore, he is not answerable to Ogbakor Ikwerre,” Georgewill said. The group also stressed that the position was zoned to Rivers State and urged respect for the outcome.
Voices of Support for Senator Mbata
Prominent Ikwerre elder and former Chief of Staff, Chief Emeh Glory Emeh, expressed support for Senator Mbata, describing his emergence as an opportunity for Rivers people. He argued that the position could bring benefits to the state and the Ikwerre community.
“Senator Mbata’s emergence as President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo does not change the identity of Ikwerre people,” Emeh said. “In the past, notable Rivers sons like Dr. Obi Wali and Chief Emma Aguma have held key positions in Ohanaeze, and their involvement brought benefits to our people.”
Emeh commended Rivers State Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara for his understanding of political dynamics and urged the Ikwerre people to support Senator Mbata’s tenure. “Let us appreciate the importance of this bold step and support Senator Mbata to succeed. This could bring dividends to Ikwerre land and the entire Rivers State,” he added.