Africa
Ikwerre Cultural Organization expels Ohaneze Ndigbo President, Mbata

The Ogbakor Ikwerre Cultural Organisation Worldwide has taken a bold step by withdrawing the membership of Senator John Azuta Mbata, declaring him a stranger to Ikwerre land.
This decisive action was made in response to Senator Mbata’s acceptance of the position of President-General of Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo, a socio-cultural organization of the Igbo people.
The organization’s statement, signed by Eze Barr. Godspower Onuekwa Ph.D., President-General, and Barr. Nyebuchi Philips, Secretary-General, clearly outlined the reasons for this decision.
“By becoming the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo, an exclusive organization of Igbo people, he has willingly and freely renounced his membership and identity with the Ikwerre people (Iwhuruohna),” the statement read.
The organization emphasized that Senator Mbata’s actions were not representative of the Ikwerre people, stating that his decision was “not the collective view, will, position, or thinking of Eneka Community, Apara Kingdom, and the entire Ikwerre Ethnic Nationality.”
Furthermore, the organization declared: “As an Igbo man, he is now seen, regarded, and declared as a stranger living in Ikwerre land. Therefore, he has been barred from participating in any Iwhuruohna gathering, meetings, or political representation starting from his Eneka Community, Apara Kingdom, and Ogbakor Ikwerre Cultural Organisation Worldwide.”
In addition, the organization announced that all awards, honors, and titles bestowed on Senator Mbata by any organization in Ikwerre have been withdrawn.
The organization also issued a stern warning to others who may consider following in Senator Mbata’s footsteps, stating that “heavy and appropriate sanctions await those who betray and sell out their Ikwerre identity on a platter of political expediency and a mere mess of porridge, according to Ikwerre custom and tradition.”
Diaspora Digital Media had earlier reported that Senator Mbata had emerged as the Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide President.
Who are the Ikwerre people?
The Ikwerre people are an ethnic group from Rivers State, Nigeria.
They are one of the many ethnic groups that make up the diverse population of Rivers State.
The people have a rich cultural heritage and are known for their unique traditions, customs, and language.
They are predominantly found in the Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State, which includes cities and towns such as Port Harcourt, Obio/Akpor, and Emohua.
The Ikwerre people have a strong sense of identity and community, and they place great importance on their cultural heritage and traditions.
They are known for their warm hospitality, rich cultural festivals, and vibrant traditional music and dance.
In recent years, the Ikwerre people have been actively involved in promoting their cultural heritage and preserving their traditions.
They have established various cultural organizations and associations, such as the Ogbakor Ikwerre Cultural Organisation Worldwide, which aim to promote and preserve Ikwerre culture and traditions.
Who are the Igbos?
The Igbo people, also known as the Ibo or Igboans, are an ethnic group native to the southeastern region of Nigeria.
They are one of the three main ethnic groups in Nigeria, along with the Hausa and Yoruba.
Historically, the Igbo people were organized into small, autonomous communities, with their own systems of governance, economy, and culture.
They were skilled farmers, traders, and craftsmen, and were known for their expertise in woodcarving, textiles, and other crafts.
The Igbo people have a complex and nuanced identity, shaped by their history, culture, and experiences.
The Igbo people have a strong sense of community and shared identity, which is reflected in their language, customs, and traditions.
Some notable Igbo traditions and customs include the Igbo language, the concept of “ubuntu” or “mmadu”, and the traditional Igbo system of governance.
They also have a rich tradition of masquerades and festivals, storytelling and oral literature.
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