Senator Azuta-Mbata emerges new president-general of Ohanaeze

John Azuta-Mbata, a former Senator for Rivers East constituency, has been elected President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide

The election, held on 10 January 2025 at the Old Government Lodge in Enugu, saw delegates from Rivers State unanimously nominating Azuta-Mbata for the position. His emergence follows the zoning of the role to Rivers State after the passing of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, who represented Imo State.

Azuta-Mbata, the first Ikwerre native to serve as Rivers East Senator under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) during Nigeria’s Fourth Republic, assumes leadership at a pivotal moment for the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation.

In his acceptance speech, he expressed gratitude for the confidence placed in him, pledging to foster unity among Igbo people and tackle key challenges facing the community.

His election is seen as a milestone in reinforcing inclusivity and regional representation within the Igbo-speaking regions.