Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Senator John Azuta-Mbata, who represented Rivers East constituency at the Senate in the Fourth Republic, has finally emerged as the President General of the apex Igbo sociocultural organisation, the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide.
He was elected at the Old Government Lodge Enugu, where the election was conducted on Friday, January 10.
Ohanaeze zoned its presidential slot to Rivers State in line with the rotational policy of the body.
Senator Azuta-Mbata took over from Chief Fidelis Ozichukwu Chukwu who replaced Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu from Imo State who himsef died in office mid-last year.
The late Iwuanyanwu had stepped in to complete the tenure of the late Professor George Obiozor also from Imo State who had earlier passed on.
Former Inspector General of Police, had Thursday night withdrawn from the Ohanaeze presidential race following a court order barring him from contesting.
There had been much pressure and controversy surrounding his ancestry.
In his acceptance speech, Senator Azuta-Mbata expressed gratitude for the confidence reposed in him, and pledged to foster unity among Igbo people.
He also promised to tackle key challenges facing the community.
More details coming…
