Mbata reaffirms Igbo identity, pledges support for Governor Fubara

DDM News

Senator John Azuta Mbata, the President-General of the Igbo socio-political organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has reiterated his unwavering Igbo identity amid recent criticisms.

He emphasized his commitment to building unity and supporting Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) revailed that Mbata made these remarks in Port Harcourt on Monday when he received a delegation from the Opobo Elder Statesmen-4-Sim, led by its chairman, Edwin Cockeye-Brown.

Dismissing the recent criticisms against him, Mbata described them as mere distractions from those who lack understanding.

“I see my responsibility as building bridges,” Mbata stated.

“We must connect our people to a broader platform for development.

My Igbo identity is not up for debate.

No matter what anyone says, I will not deny my ancestry.”

He further stressed the need for unity among ethnic groups, adding that political relevance is anchored in engagement at the national level.

“Politics is played from Abuja.

It is when decisions are made there that they reflect here.

We must access the powers that be and position ourselves strategically,” Mbata said.

The Ohanaeze leader also addressed ongoing debates about ethnic heritage, acknowledging that some individuals trace their ancestry to Benin.

However, he reaffirmed his Igbo heritage, urging people to focus on fostering cooperation rather than engaging in divisive arguments.

“We have a relationship with the Igbo.

Why should anyone shout me down for stating my identity?

These concerns will naturally fade away over time,” he remarked.

In his address, Cockeye-Brown congratulated Mbata on his election as President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo and commended his steadfast support for Governor Fubara, particularly during the attempted impeachment.

“You stood by the governor like a shining star.

You did not waver or shy away,” he noted.

Cockeye-Brown also highlighted the longstanding relationship between the Mbata family and the Opobo people, tracing it back to Mbata’s father, the late Elder Samuel Mbata, who was a respected evangelist and philanthropist.

“Your father’s prayers and legacy have undoubtedly contributed to your rise to leadership,” he added.

The delegation included esteemed elders, leaders, and youth representatives from the Opobo Kingdom, all of whom emphasized their commitment to unity within Rivers State.

They expressed confidence that Mbata’s leadership would strengthen Igbo interests both locally and internationally.

Speaking at the event, the Rivers State Chairman of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Livingstone Wechie, described the visit as historic and symbolic.

He hailed Mbata’s emergence as the leader of over 100 million Igbos worldwide, referring to him as “the tallest Ikwerre son, both in height and stature, chosen to lead Ndigbo globally.”

Wechie further likened Mbata’s rise to leadership to a biblical transformation, stating, “This is the stone that the builders rejected, now the chief cornerstone.”

He also reaffirmed his support for Governor Fubara, pledging that Ohanaeze Ndigbo would continue to work towards peace and development.

Chief Lawrence Oko-Jaja, SAN, who introduced the visiting delegation, emphasized the importance of collaboration among communities.

He described Mbata as a man of integrity and a staunch advocate for the progress of the Ikwerre people.

The delegation pledged their commitment to fostering peace, cultural preservation, and development under Mbata’s leadership.

They expressed confidence that Ohanaeze Ndigbo, under his guidance, would continue to be a strong voice for the Igbo people, ensuring their interests are protected and advanced both within Nigeria and beyond.

With Mbata at the helm, Ohanaeze Ndigbo aims to strengthen inter-ethnic relationships and create opportunities for the Igbo people to thrive within the broader Nigerian political and economic landscape.

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