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Tag: Ohanaeze Ndigbo

  • Ohanaeze Ndigbo: Gov Fubara hails his henchman’s emergence as PG

    Ohanaeze Ndigbo: Gov Fubara hails his henchman’s emergence as PG

    Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has hailed the emergence of Senator John Mbata  as the President-General of Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide.

    Recall that Mbata, who represented Rivers East zone from 1999 to 2007,  emerged via consensus at the election.Mbata was elected at the Ohanaeze Ndigbo General Assembly meeting, which was held on Friday at the Old Government Lodge in Enugu.

    With the election, Mbata would succeed Nze Ozichukwu Chukwu, who was appointed to complete the tenure of the late Emmanuel lwuanyanwu from Imo state.

    Fubara, in a statement  by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Nelson Chukwudi in Port Harcourt on Saturday , stated that  Mbata’s victory was a testament of his wide acceptance across the aisle.

    The governor stated that  the delegates’ votes showed confidence of members of the socio-cultural organisation in Mbata’s  ability to provide the  needed leadership to move the Ohanaeze Ndigbo forward at this time.

    Fubara, therefore, extended his best wishes to Mbata and expressed hope that he would succeed as he discharged the duties of furthering national cohesion, fostering friendly cooperation based on mutual trust and respect within the Igbos and among non-Igbos.

    “On behalf of the government and the good people of Rivers , I once again congratulate you and assure you of our readiness to work with you toward maintaining and preserving national unity and cohesion,” Fubara stated.

  • John Azuta-Mbata emerges Ohanaeze Ndigbo president general

    John Azuta-Mbata emerges Ohanaeze Ndigbo president general

    A former senator, John Azuta-Mbata, has been elected as the president-general of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.

    TheNewsGuru reports that Azuta-Mbata was chosen during a meeting of the Igbo socio-cultural group held in Enugu State on Friday.

    The new president who represented the Rivers East Senatorial District in the National Assembly from 1999 to 2007 succeeded Fidelis Chukwu, who served as interim president-general following the death of Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu on July 25, 2024.

    Chukwu, from Imo State, was appointed in December to complete Iwuanyanwu’s tenure. Iwuanyanwu had assumed the position of president-general after the passing of George Obiozor in 2022. Both Iwuanyanwu and Obiozor were also from Imo State.

    The presidency of Ohanaeze Ndigbo rotates among Delta, Rivers, and the southeastern states. It is currently Rivers State’s turn to occupy the position.

  • Rivers to produce next Ohanaeze President-General

    Rivers to produce next Ohanaeze President-General

    The National Executive Committee (NEC) of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has reaffirmed its commitment to the turn of Rivers State producing the next President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo by 2025.

    Dr Alex Ogbonnia, the National Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, disclosed this at the end of the NEC Meeting of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Enugu on Wednesday.

    According to Ogbonnia, the meeting was presided by the Secretary-General of other apex Igbo cultural body, Amb. Okey Emuchay and other members of the group.

    He said: “The NEC reaffirmed their commitment to the provisions of the Ohanaeze constitution to the effect that it is the turn of Rivers State to produce the next president- general for Ohanaeze Ndigbo come January 2025.

    “It also resolved that Emuchay in consultation with the South-East Governors, Igbo Senators, traditional rulers, town unions, the Clergy, stakeholders, and the Ohanaeze structures should convene a meeting of Imeobi Ohanaeze as soon as possible.

    “The purpose of the meeting is to set up an electoral umpire for the purpose of the 2025 Ohanaeze election”.

    He said that Emuchay thanked the Igbos for their unwavering support and appealed for understanding and promised that the January 2025 election would be a huge success.

    Ogbonnia further added that the meeting commenced with one minute silence in honour of eminent Igbo personages who passed on recently.

    They include late Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu, Sen. Ifeanyi Ubah and Ms Onyeka Onwenu.

    “Members expressed immense satisfaction on the administrative capacity of the Secretary General, Emuchay with a vote of confidence.

    “They also expressed delight over the cooperation and kind gestures displayed by the South-East Governors’ Forum, led by Sen. Hope Uzodimma, the Governor of Imo State during the burials.

  • Tributes: Notable Nigerians extol late Iwuanyanwu

    Tributes: Notable Nigerians extol late Iwuanyanwu

    Some notable Nigerians have described the late President General of Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, as a “quintessential statesman” who committed and devoted his life to the pursuit of peace and progress in Nigeria.

    They paid their tributes during the Service of Songs held in honor of the late President General in Enugu on Saturday.

    Gov Peter Mbah of Enugu State, in his tribute, described Iwuanyanwu as ‘an Iroko’, whose exit would be greatly felt across the country, especially in Igbo land.

    “Iwuanyanwu raised himself, a towering example of generosity, courage and wisdom. Known as a bridge builder, he stretched his hands across communities and creed; thus, fostering unity in our troubled times.

    “For me, the sense of loss in the loss of Iwuanyanwu evokes, is not such that time will heal. His love for Ndigbo and strong devotion to Nigeria were not mutually exclusive.  He has indeed proved that you could adore your tribe and country in equal measure,” he said.

    Prof Uche Azikiwe, the widow of Nnamdi Azikiwe, first President of Nigeria, noted that Iwuanyanwu was unique in many ways, adding that he was a trailblazer.

    Azikiwe said the late Igbo leader charted a part for younger generations of entrepreneurs and venture capitalists from civil engineering to newspaper publishing.

    “The iconic leader demonstrated foresight, courage and the definitive can-do-spirit of the Igbo man. His capacity to create was only matched by his capacity to give,” she said.

    The Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Okey Emuchey, noted that Iwuanyanwu was a quintessential statesman, an iconic pan-Nigerian and national colossus.

    “Until his departure, our leader remained an absolute patriot who devoted his life for the pursuit of the peace and progress of Ndigbo and Nigeria,” he said.

    Speaking, Chief Chukwuma Okpalaezeukwu, President-General of Ohanaeze Youth Wing, said that Iwuanyanwu revived and sustained the youth wing to be vibrant and “to be a voice”.

    Okpalaezeukwu said that being a lover of youths and their aspiration to grow; Iwuanyanwu would also carry the youths along and advised Ohanaeze youths on the right path to any issue.

    “Iwuanyanwu remains a father to us all, a role model, an achiever to be emulated and a passionate leader that seeks the growth and uplift of youths.

    Umuada Igbo, an umbrella body of Igbo daughters in the South-East, Delta and Rivers States, called on South-East states governments to immortalise late the President-General.

    The President General, Umuada Igbo Nigeria and in Diaspora, Chief Kate Ezeofor, said that Iwuanyanwu was a great son of Igbo Land who lived and died in the service of his people.

    “Ahaejiagamba Ndigbo as President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide worked closely with Umuada Igbo Nigeria and in Diaspora.

    “As Umuada Igbo, we are making passionate appeals to the governments of South-East States to immortalise Chief Iwuanyanwu in different ways.

    “In addition, we ask the Federal Government under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, GCFR, to immortalise Chief Iwuanyanwu for he was an authentic Nigerian patriot who made innumerable contributions in various sectors,” she said.

    The funeral rites for the late President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, commenced on Saturday, October 26. Iwuanyanwu, who died on July 25, will be buried on November 1, 2024. He was aged 82.

  • Obasanjo, South East Govs, Adebanjo to attend Iwuanyanwu’s burial

    Obasanjo, South East Govs, Adebanjo to attend Iwuanyanwu’s burial

    Ahead of the burial of the late President-General, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, Sen Ben Obi, head, burial Planning Committee said prominent Nigerians have indicated interest to attend the ceremony.

    He said that ex-president, Olusegun Obasanjo, and the five south eastern governors along with foremost Yoruba leader, Ayo Adebanjo, among others, would be present during the event.

    The late entrepreneur and politician would be buried on November 1 at his country home at Attah, Imo State.

    Obi, while briefing newsmen in Abuja on Saturday, said governors from the five south eastern states had also reaffirmed their support.

    Obi, who was represented at the event by Prof. Ike Ikechukwu, Chairman of Media Sub-committee, said the needed sensitisation was ongoing.

    “We have continued with the needed sensitisation of respected elder statesmen and women, as well stakeholders friends and well-wishers within and outside the country.

    “The South East governors, in their last meeting, reaffirmed their resolve to give our leader the befitting and dignified exit rites he deserves.

    “This is in addition to the support of national stakeholders and a diaspora community that is currently organizing and projecting other activities in honour of Ahaejiagamba.”

    “As indicated in our earlier exchanges with the media, the series of activities lined up for this purpose will end with his final interment on the 1st of November, 2024”, he said.

    Obi described Iwuanyanwu as a gift by God to Ndigbo, the country and to the world in general who touched many lives, communities and sectors in his long and eventful life.

    “He invested heavily in nation building, group cohesion and the struggle for equity in our national life,” he said.

    The President, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Mr Chris Isiguzo, described the late Igbo leader as a worthy Nigerian who should be celebrated by all.

    Isiguzo said that the late elder statesman, was the best president Nigeria never had.

    He described Iwuanyanwu as a patriotic Nigerian who impacted positively on the lives of many Nigerians.

  • Igbo Day: Ohanaeze calls for prayers against challenges facing South-East

    Igbo Day: Ohanaeze calls for prayers against challenges facing South-East

    Ahead of Igbo Day prayer conference slated for September 29, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has called on Ndigbo to pray against grievous plights confronting the Igbo Nation.

    According to the Igbo Apex group, unspeakable anguish wrought by decades of oppression, socio-political marginalisation, and insecurity has plagued the homeland since the amalgamation of Nigeria in 1914.

    Ohanaeze Ndigbo stated this in a statement signed by its Secretary General Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro on Sunday.

    The statement reads, “As the sacred narrative of our people unfolds, we, the esteemed leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, rise in unity and profound concern to address the grievous plight confronting the Igbo nation on this year’s commemoration of Igbo Day. Our collective hearts are heavy with the unspeakable anguish wrought by decades of oppression, socio-political marginalisation, and insecurity that have plagued our homeland since the amalgamation of Nigeria in 1914.

    “Our beloved Southeast has become a crucible of suffering, caught in the merciless grip of escalating insecurity and governance deficiencies, which have led to a lamentable deterioration of our cultural values and norms as outlined in the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Constitution.

    “This ongoing marginalisation has not only been an affront to our identity but has also resulted in a profound crisis for our citizens, particularly those residing in the Igbo-speaking states and minority communities in Benue, Kogi, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta, and Rivers States. Furthermore, our business communities in the Northern and Western regions of Nigeria are facing unjust challenges that impede their livelihoods.

    “In light of these profound adversities, we extend our commendations to the indomitable spirit of every Igbo man and woman who has exhibited remarkable resilience in the face of relentless provocations and confrontations.

    “The tenacity and entrepreneurial spirit of the Igbo people have historically served as the backbone of economic vitality across Nigeria and beyond, underpinning a legacy of 110 years filled with selfless contributions to our nation and our continent.

    “We solemnly acknowledge the immense sacrifices of our forebearers and contemporaries, including the heroic women of the 1929 Aba Women’s War, the victims of the Enugu coal mine incident, and the innocent lives lost during the massacres of September 1966 and the Asaba Massacre in 1968. We cannot overlook the loss of over three million Biafrans during the Civil War, nor the tragic events of June 12, 1993, and the ongoing violence perpetrated against our people through state-sponsored actions and nefarious activities linked to criminal elements.

    “As we approach September 29th, 2024, Ohanaeze Ndigbo solemnly directs all Igbos at home and in the diaspora to observe a poignant moment of silence at exactly 12 noon in their respective time zones. This solemn minute is dedicated to honouring our departed heroes whose lives were cruelly cut short by the scourge of violence, ethnic strife, and state-induced calamities. We call upon all Ndigbo to engage deeply in this act of remembrance—a unified expression of grief, respect, and reverence for those who bravely fought for our dignity and rights.

    “The year 2024 Igbo Day will serve not only as a commemoration but also as a sacred moment of prayer and reflection. It is imperative that we uphold our traditional rites and honour the memories of our fallen heroes. Under the guidance of the esteemed Prince Dr. Richard Ozobu, Chairman of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Elders Council, we will engage in collective monumental remembrance prayers and rituals across all Igbo-speaking states, including Anioma and Ikwerre in Delta and Rivers States.

    “The central theme of our 2024 Igbo Day Prayers Conference, “Ozoemela” (Never Again), calls us to collectively forge a path towards healing and reconciliation, urging us to let bygones be bygones. This is not merely a remembrance; it is an invitation for renewed hope and a commitment to healing our land through prayer, forgiveness, and a collective drive for justice.

    “On this day of sombre reflection, we will conduct church services, Muslim prayers, and traditional rites, culminating in the erection of monumental structures in Asaba, Delta State, in solemn memory of the Asaba Massacre. This will serve both as a reminder of our past and as a declaration of our undying commitment to the pursuit of our common good.

    “As we gather in prayer, Ohanaeze Ndigbo seeks the intercession of God Almighty to heal our land, to mend the rift created by years of oppression, and to bless us with a new beginning characterised by peace and mutual respect. While our tongues may differ, our hearts remain united in the spirit of brotherhood.

    “In conclusion, we extend our heartfelt appeal to all Nigerians and lovers of justice to stand with us in solidarity during this significant moment in our history. Together, may we strive towards a brighter future for Igbos and a harmonious Nigeria, where every citizen, regardless of background, can live with dignity, freedom, and mutual respect. May God bless Igbos, and may He guide us towards a future filled with hope and restoration.”

     

  • Late Ohanaeze Ndigbo president, Iwuanyanwu for burial Nov. 1

    Late Ohanaeze Ndigbo president, Iwuanyanwu for burial Nov. 1

    The late President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Emmanual Iwuanyanwu is to be buried on Nov. 1.

    The national burial committee announced this in Abuja shortly after its inauguration by Gov. Hope Uzodinma of Imo.

    The inauguration which held on Tuesday in Abuja had South-East stakeholders including serving and no-serving senators as members.

    Iwuanyanwu, a business man, politician and philanthropist known for his significant contributions to various sectors of the country died on July 25.

    Briefing newsmen after the constitution of the committee, Uzodinma who is also the Chairman, South-East Governors’ Forum, said that the committee was set up to give the late President-General of Ohaneze Ndigbo a befitting burial.

    “The national committee for the burial of our great leader, Iwuanyanwu, the immediate past President-General of Ndigbo has been constituted.

    “The whole idea is to give him a very befitting burial that his status deserves,” he said.

    Also speaking, Chairman of the committee, Sen. Ben Obi announced that the late Iwuanyanwu would be buried on Nov. 1.

    He described the late Ndigbo leader as a global citizen, adding that in every aspect of human endeavours, the late Iwuanyanwu excelled.

    “The sacrifices he committed to the Igbo nation is something that is admirable by all of us and it is our decision as a people in collaboration with other associations like Afenifere, PANDEF, Middle Belt Forum, Arewa consultative Forum to make sure that we give him a befitting burial.

    “And we are grateful that Uzodinma has made it available for us to meet.

    “They have agreed with the Primate of Anglican Church that he will be buried in Nov. 1. We will ensure a befitting burial,” Obi said.

    He appreciated the support of the Imo governor and other governors in the South-East saying that “they have given us confidence that this committee will be given all the necessary support.”

    NAN

  • What Peter Obi, Soludo, Mbah said about passing of Iwuanyanwu

    What Peter Obi, Soludo, Mbah said about passing of Iwuanyanwu

    Former Labour Party Presidential Candidate, Mr Peter Obi, has reacted to the death of the President General of the Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, describing it as “devastating”.

    Obi, who reacted to the death in his X handle on Thursday, disclosed that he was greatly disheartened by the death of the elder statesman.

    According to him, the devastating report of his death has left all who knew him heartbroken.

    “When I visited him a few weeks ago, he promised me that he would soon be alright to continue with his contributions to the progress of the nation.

    “Since then, I continued to pray for his quick and full recovery, untill I received the sad news of his death.

    “I sincerely condole with his immediate family, the Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide and entire nation over the death of this revered patriarch.

    ”May God grant us all the fortitude to bear his sad loss and grant him eternal rest,” he prayed.

    The renowned Igbo leader and politician died on Thursday morning, following a brief illness, family sources have said.

    Gov. Soludo mourns Iwuanyanwu

    Gov. Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State on Thursday expressed sadness over the death of the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.

    In a statement issued by the Press Secretary to the governor, Mr Christian Aburime, Soludo described Iwuanyanwu’s death as a monumental loss not only to his immediate family and the Igbo nation but to Nigeria as a whole.

    Recall Iwuanyanwu died on Thursday at the age of 82 after a brief illness.

    The governor said that Iwuanyanwu’s contributions to the socio-economic development of Nigeria were immeasurable.

    According to the governor, as the publisher of the Champion Newspapers and owner of several other businesses, Iwuanyanwu’s entrepreneurial spirit and philanthropic endeavours left an enduring legacy in the country.

    Soludo said Chief Iwuanyanwu was a distinguished elder statesman, notable patriot, renowned businessman, a personal mentor and a great supporter.

    “He was an influential figure whose life and wise counsel were a tribute to exceptional leadership, patriotism and steadfast dedication to the progress of the Igbo nation and Nigeria as a country.

    “As the 11th President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, he provided exemplary leadership, fostering unity, and championing the interests of Ndigbo, even while building bridges of peace across Nigeria,”he said.

    The governor extended his condolences to the bereaved family, friends, and associates of Chief Iwuanyanwu, Ndigbo and the nation.

    He prayed that his soul rest in peace as God grants the family the fortitude to bear the great loss.

    Iwuanyanwu: A great Iroko has fallen, says Gov Mbah

    Gov. Peter Mbah of Enugu State has expressed grief over the death of the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu.

    “A great iroko has fallen,” Mbah said in Enugu on Thursday.

    He described Iwuanyanwu’s death as an incalculable loss to Ndigbo and Nigeria in general.

    The governor said Iwuanyanwu was unapologetically Igbo, yet a consummate nationalist and quintessential statesman.

    He said that the pan-Nigerian gave his all in service to the nation and to the Igbo race.

    “I received with a deep sense of grief the shocking news of the demise of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, an icon, pan Nigerian, national colossus, and an absolute patriot, who gave his all for the peace and progress of Ndigbo and Nigeria.

    “Ahaejiagamba, as he was popularly known, took up the mantle of leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo at a very difficult time, and acquitted himself most creditably as a courageous leader, whose vision was to chart a new roadmap for Igbo renaissance in the Nigerian commonwealth.

    “He was an erudite scholar, researcher, media entrepreneur, sports enthusiast and financier, business mogul with interest in many critical sectors of the nation’s economy, and indeed a philanthropist,” Mbah said.

    He said that in politics, the Igbo leader was no less remarkable as his views were candid and unpretentious, but never divisive.

    “Indeed, Chief Iwuanyanwu, a pan Africanist, would be missed by not only Ndigbo and Nigeria, but Africa as a whole.

    “On behalf of the Government and people of Enugu State, I offer my condolences to his family and pray that God comforts and grants them as well as the Government and people of Imo State, Ndigbo, and the nation the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

    “Rest in peace, Ahaejiagamba Ndigbo,” he prayed.

    My father was a man of many parts – Iwuanyanwu’s son

    Mr Jide Iwuanyanwu, the first son of the late elder statesman, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, who passed on Thursday morning, has described his father as a man of many parts.

    Jide disclosed this in a statement containing a brief biography of the President-General of the apex-Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide.

    In the statement made available to newsmen in Owerri, he described the deceased as “a renowned Nigerian businessman, politician, and traditional leader”.

    He stated: “Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu was born on September 4, 1942, in Umunakanu, Ehime Mbano Local Government Area of Imo.

    “He hails from a humble background and is the first child of his parents.

    “He attended St. Patrick’s Primary School, Umunakanu, and later proceeded to St. Peter’s Secondary School, Umuguma.

    “He furthered his education at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where he graduated with a degree in Economics.”

    Jide further stated that the late Igbo leader started his business career as a trader in the 1960s.

    According to him, Iwuanyanwu ventured into various sectors, including construction, manufacturing and publishing.

    “He is the founder and chairman of Champion Newspapers Limited, publishers of Champion newspapers.

    “He also owns other businesses, including construction companies, manufacturing firms and real estate investments,” Jide added.

    He explained that Iwuanyanwu joined active politics in the 1980s and was a member of the National Party of Nigeria and later joined the Peoples Democratic Party.

    “He has held various political positions, including being a member of the state House of Assembly (1983-1985), Commissioner for Works and Housing (1985-1987),” he stated.

    He further stated that Iwuanyanwu contested for the Imo East Senatorial District in 1992.

    Jide also described his father as “a respected traditional leader in Igboland,” who was conferred with several chieftaincy titles, including Eze Udo 1 of Umunakanu, and Ochiagha Ndigbo, amongst others.

    He said that he received numerous awards and honours for “his contributions to business, politics, and traditional leadership”.

    He listed some of the awards to include Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic and Honorary Doctorate Degree in Business Administration from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Honorary Doctorate Degree in Law from the Imo State University.

    He added that the deceased was a devout Catholic, who engaged in philanthropic activities throughout his life.

    Jide said that Iwuanyanwu died at the age of 82, following a brief illness, and was survived by his wife, Frances, children and grand-children.

    He said that the date of his burial would be announced by the family after due consultation.

    Iwuanyanwu indicated his aspiration to vie for the President on the platform of the United Nigeria Congress Party in 1997.

    He succeeded the late President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, late Amb. George Obiozor, who died in December 2022.

  • BREAKING: Ohanaeze Ndigbo President, Iwuanyanwu is dead

    BREAKING: Ohanaeze Ndigbo President, Iwuanyanwu is dead

    The President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, is dead.

    This was confirmed in a statement on Thursday by Jide Iwuanyanwu, the son of the late Chief Emmanuel.

    According to the statement, the 82-year-old Iwuanyanwu died on Thursday after a brief illness.

    “The Iwuanyanwu family of Umuohii Atta, in Ikeduru Local Government Area of Imo State announces the demise of our patriarch, Engr Chief Emmanuel Chukwuemeka Iwuanyanwu-Ahaejiagamba Ndigbo,” the statement read.

    “Chief Iwuanyanwu died on Thursday July 25, 2024 after a brief illness. He was aged 82. Chief Iwuanyanwu before his death was President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo worldwide and President of Owerri Peoples Assembly.”

    Iwuanyanwu is survived by his wife, Lady Princess Frances Iwuanyanwu, many children and grandchildren.

    The statement stated that the burial details will be announced later by the family after due consultations.

    Details to follow…

  • Ohanaeze, Igbo youths react over passage of SEDC into law

    Ohanaeze, Igbo youths react over passage of SEDC into law

    The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has lauded President Bola Tinubu for giving assent to the South-East Development Commission (SEDC).

    The Publicity Secretary of the group, Dr Alex Ogbonnia, made the commendation in a statement issued in Enugu on Wednesday.

    Ogbonnia stated that the group received the news of the president’s assent to the bill with immense relief and joy.

    “This is a quantum leap, a hope renewal and a significant part of a new beginning by President Tinubu,” he stated.

    According to him, the President General of the apex-Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, was highly elated and sends a warm gratitude to the president for the development.

    Ogbonnia also commended the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, and the “co-sponsors of the all-important Bill”.

    He recalled that during a courtesy visit to the National Assembly by the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the exceptional quality of Kalu did not go unnoticed.

    “His suave, assertive, sagacious and visionary dispositions were very inspiring and a veritable source of hope.

    “More importantly, he commands the respect and confidence of most members of the House of Representatives.

    “It needs a mention that the SEDC, which has remained in the pipeline for decades, has come on stream through Kalu and his team,” he added.

    He further stated that the commission was expected to manage funds allocated from the Federation Account for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of roads and other infrastructural deficits suffered by the region due to age-long neglect.

    He explained that the commission would also tackle ecological problems and related environmental challenges that had devastated the Southeast for decades.

    “The SEDC will go a long way to assuage the feelings of the Igbo with respect to the 3R sophistry by General Yakubu Gowon in January 1970.

    “Gowon had assured the world that there would be three “R”: Reconciliation, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction of the Igboland as a result of war ravages.

    “But 54 years after the war, the Southeast has witnessed the direct opposite of the 3R, even in exponential proportion.

    “South-East has the least number of Local Government Areas, the least number of states, the least in political appointments, the least members in the House of Representatives, the least in the Senate and, of course, the worst in infrastructure,” he stressed.

    “With the structures, Federal Government enlarged the coast of other geopolitical zones, leaving the South-East in the cold.

    “No one should, therefore, look elsewhere in the search for the persistent youth restiveness and secessionist agitations in the region.

    “Furthermore, the South-East Governors, led by the governor of Imo, Sen. Hope Uzodinma, will leverage the opportunity created by the commission to anchor programmes that will fully harness and promote industrial, agricultural and tourism in the region.

    Others are energy, commercial and investment potentials in the zone as well as help to create the much desired centrally coordinated security architecture in the zone and more.

    Ohanaeze Ndigbo youth body hails Tinubu for SEDC Act

    The Youth Wing of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has commended President Bola Tinubu for assenting to the South-East Development Commission (SEDC) Bill into law.

    The Acting National Youth Leader of the group, Mr Chukwuma Okpalaezeukwu, made the commendation during an interactive session with newsmen in Awka on Wednesday.

    Okpalaezeukwu said that Tinubu had finally ended the age-long civil war in the South-East with the creation of the commission.

    He expressed the confidence that the commission would not only heal the region, but add value to the collective struggle to restore peace and stability in the troubled zone and Nigeria at large.

    He said: “We commend the president for the boldness and patriotic act of assenting to the South-East Development Commission Bill.

    “I must commend all the stakeholders who played critical role to ensure this milestone achievement and making this dream a reality.

    “I thank particularly the Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Chief Benjamin Kalu, and his colleagues, Southeast Governors, led by Sen. Hope Uzodinma of Imo, and the National Assembly.

    “By assenting to the bill to establish the commission, the president has finally ended the age-long civil war in Southeast.

    “Recall that the war ended on a treaty of Reconciliation, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction, but successive governments did not implement that treaty.

    “We are hopeful that the commission shall implement the treaty.”

    Okpalaezeukwu further expressed optimism that the commission would assist in healing the nation and Southeast on the basis of equity, justice and fairness.

    “We affirm our absolute support and solidarity to the Tinubu-led administration,” he said.

    ICYMI: Tinubu signs development commission establishment bills

    President Bola Tinubu has signed into law bills to accelerate development across geo-political zones in the country.

    This is contained in a statement by Chief Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President, Media and Publicity, on Wednesday in Abuja.

    The statement said the President assented to the North-West Development Commission (Establishment) Bill, 2024, and the South-East Development Commission (Establishment) Bill, 2023.

    According to the statement, the North-West Development Commission is set up to facilitate the reconstruction of roads, houses, and business premises destroyed by multidimensional crisis.

    It is also expected to tackle poverty, literacy level, ecological problems, and any other related environmental or development challenges in North-West states.

    It added that the South-East Development Commission was established to ensure the reconstruction and rehabilitation of roads, houses and other infrastructural damages suffered by the zone.

    It is also expected to tackle ecological problems and other related environmental or developmental challenges in South-East states.

    “President Tinubu believes in building the nation on the fulcrum of fairness, equity, and unity.

    “Hence, he is committed to ensuring equitable development, inclusive governance, and the provision of qualitative services to all Nigerians — no matter where they reside — while knitting even more tightly together the national fabric,” it said.