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•Igbo group closes ranks 27 years after, as Akwa Ibom gov preaches national cohesion
From Daniel Ezindu, Enugu
The Akwa Ibom State chapter of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has rekindled the apex Igbo organisation’s motto of ‘Igwe Bu Ike’ (Unity is strength).
Emerging from 27 years of bickering, polarisation and loss of lives, the group, on Saturday, November 15, hosted the first Igbo Unity Day celebration in over two decades.
The Akwa Ibom State governor, Umo Eno, who graced the event, also harped on national unity. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering unity and inclusivity, ensuring that all residents, regardless of ethnic background, feel valued and empowered to contribute to the state’s growth and development.
Speaking at Ibom Hall Grounds, Uyo, venue of the cultural fiesta, the governor noted the fact that some of their members were born in the state and having established their businesses therein as well, and should be treated as part and parcel of the state.
Eno disclosed that his administration has earmarked N800 million for the empowerment of the non-indigenous communities of Igbo, Arewa, Yoruba and the Niger Delta, among others, in the state.
He commended the leadership of the Igbo community for engineering unity among themselves, and for embracing peace and unity, which were the hallmarks of his administration. The governor was emphatic that, with unity, a lot could be achieved for their overall good.
He commended the Igbo for their entrepreneurial spirit, which he described as impressive and exemplary. He also stated that he was born in Enugu State and highlighted his close affinity with Igbo people.
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To the Igbo community in Akwa Ibom State, that which seemed impossible happened. They did not just come together again under one umbrella, but it was also an opportunity to show love to a governor that has embraced them.
President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Akwa Ibom State chapter, Chief Kayceey Chidiadi, and his executive ensured that all Igbo in the state closed shop and downed tools in honour of the event.
He noted that Governor Eno’s peaceful and unifying attributes had permeated the Igbo community.
Extolling the governor’s policy of inclusivity, Chidiadi expressed gratitude to the state’s chief executive for appointing three of their members into his government.
He said it was a testament to his detribalised nature, pan-Nigerian disposition and virtue of political inclusivity.
In appreciation of the healthy relationship between them and the governor, the Igbo community leader moved a motion that their people unite in support of Eno’s re-election in 2027. What followed was a loud and unanimous affirmation.
The same privilege was extended to the Senate President, Chief Godswill Akpabio, who is their worthy in-law; his wife, Unoma, coming from Enugu State. President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid also received the endorsement of the Igbo community.
As an icing on the cake, the governor was appointed and decorated as the first grand patron of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Akwa Ibom State.
The cultural extravaganza was second to none. Troupes representing the Igbo-speaking states stopped at nothing in entertaining the surging crowd. The award-winning war dancers from Abia State held people spell-bound just as various masquerades and troupes made spectacular displays. The conviviality was clearly overwhelming.
