Senator John Azuta-Mbata has been elected as the 13th President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization.
Mbata, a former Senator representing Rivers East at the National Assembly from 1999 to 2007, was elected at the Ohanaeze Ndigbo General Assembly meeting held at the old government lodge Enugu, the Enugu State capital on Friday, January 9.
He takes over from Nze Ozichukwu Fidelis Chukwu who was appointed to complete the tenure to succeed the late Chief Emmanuel lwuanyanwu.
He was elected by consensus in the election which was witnessed by the Governors of Enugu, Imo and Anambra States.
Azuta-Mbata hails from Rivers State in South-south Nigeria, marking a significant milestone in the organization’s history.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo, established in 1976, has had several individuals serve as President-General since its inception. Here is a list of those who have held the position:
1. Dr. Francis Akanu Ibiam (1976–?) A former Governor of the Eastern Region, Dr. Ibiam was instrumental in the formation of Ohanaeze Ndigbo and served as its first President-General.
2. Chief Raph Uwechue A Nigerian diplomat and publisher, Chief Uwechue led the organization during this period.
3. Chief Gary Enwo-Igariwey (2013–201) – Chief Enwo-Igariwey served as President-General, focusing on unity and political representation for the Igbo people.
4. Chief John Nnia Nwodo (2017–2021) – Under Chief Nwodo’s leadership, Ohanaeze Ndigbo addressed various national issues affecting the Igbo community.
5. Professor George Obiozor (2021–2024) – A former Nigerian ambassador, Professor Obiozor was elected President-General in January 2021.
6. Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu (2024) – Chief Iwuanyanwu assumed the role in 2024 but sadly passed away on July 25, 2024.
7. Nze Fidelis Ozichukwu Chukwu (December 2024–January 2025) – Following Chief Iwuanyanwu’s passing, Fidelis Chukwu was appointed as the interim President-General.
8. Senator John Azuta-Mbata (January 2025–Present) – Elected on January 10, 2025, Senator Azuta-Mbata is the current President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.