Senator John Azuta-Mbata, a former Senator for Rivers East constituency, has been elected President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide. He emerged during an election held by the sociocultural group on 10 January 2025 at the Old Government Lodge in Enugu.
Azuka-Mbata’s emergence comes after the zoning of the position to Rivers State following the passing of former president Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, who represented Imo State. He succeeds Fidelis Chukwu, who had briefly held the role in an acting capacity following the death of Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu in July 2024.
In his acceptance speech, Azuta-Mbata expressed gratitude for the confidence placed in him, pledging to foster unity among Igbo people and tackle key challenges facing the community. The election is seen as a milestone in reinforcing inclusivity and regional representation within the Igbo-speaking regions of Rivers state
Background of Azuta-Mbata
Born in January 1960, Azuta-Mbata holds a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Ibadan. During his tenure in the Nigerian Senate, he was active in various committees, including defense, works and housing, women affairs, finance and appropriation, and information.
Controversy and Vindication
In 2005, Azuta-Mbata was implicated in an alleged N55 million budget bribe scandal by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC). However, in 2019, after 14 years, the case was dismissed due to a lack of evidence and witnesses.
Other Newly Elected Executives
Other executives elected at the general assembly include: Okey Nwadinobi – Deputy President-General, Engr. Emeka Sibeudu – Secretary-General, Dan Okenyi – Deputy Secretary-General, Omeife Omeife Jideofor, Chief John Duru, Dr. Ngozi Oleiime, Dr. Peter Mbam, Prof. Fred Eze – Vice presidents; Dr. Peter Chidera Aneke – National Treasurer, Nnanna Nwakwo – Assistant National Treasurer, Charles Kalu Nkata – National Financial Secretary, Jane Nwanga – Assistant National Financial Secretary, Dr. Ezechukwu Eze – National Publicity Secretary, Bismarck Orji – Assistant National Publicity Secretary, Barr. Okeagu Ogada – National Legal Adviser, and Barr. Chizoba Iheka – Assistant National Legal Adviser .
