UNIEC Worldwide commends Senator John Azuta-Mbata and Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide for defending Igbo cultural dignity, institutional integrity, and unity. Igwe bụ ike!

UNITED IGBO ELDERS COUNCIL (UNIEC) WORLDWIDE

UNIEC COMMENDS OHANAEZE NDIGBO WORLDWIDE UNDER SENATOR JOHN AZUTA-MBATA FOR DEFENDING IGBO INSTITUTIONAL IDENTITY, CULTURAL DIGNITY AND UNITY

OFFICIAL STATEMENT OF COMMENDATION AND SOLIDARITY

ENUGU, NIGERIA — 26 OCTOBER 2026

The United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide commends His Excellency, Senator John Azuta-Mbata, President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, and his executive leadership for their continued efforts to protect the identity, cultural heritage, institutional integrity, and collective interests of Ndigbo.

We recognise the importance of principled leadership in addressing questions concerning traditional titles, diaspora representation, and the authority of Igbo socio-cultural institutions. Such sensitive matters require cultural wisdom, constitutional clarity, broad consultation, and respect for the laws and customs of host communities.

1. COMMENDATION FOR INSTITUTIONAL LEADERSHIP

UNIEC Worldwide acknowledges the responsibility borne by the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide in safeguarding the organisation’s identity, established structures, and cultural mandate.

Under Senator John Azuta-Mbata’s leadership, institutional questions concerning the representation of Ndigbo deserve to be addressed through transparent procedures, constructive engagement, and respect for the organisation’s governing framework.

We encourage the executive leadership to continue promoting unity, accountability, and inclusive consultation among Igbo stakeholders at home and abroad.

2. PROTECTING IGBO CULTURAL DIGNITY

The debate surrounding the use of the titles Eze Ndigbo and Onyendu in diaspora communities demonstrates the need for careful cultural dialogue.

UNIEC recognises the importance of preserving Igbo traditions while maintaining harmonious relationships with host communities. Traditional titles should be approached with respect for customary practices, community consultation, and applicable laws.

We commend efforts to promote clarity in cultural representation and encourage all stakeholders to resolve differences through dialogue rather than hostility or personal attacks.

3. DISTINGUISHING INSTITUTIONAL IDENTITY AND AUTHORITY

We further emphasise the importance of distinguishing Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide from any other organisation or association using a similar name. Institutional identity, affiliation, and authority should be established through constitutions, governing documents, and verifiable authorisation.

This distinction protects the public from confusion and enables every organisation to operate transparently within its legitimate mandate.

We encourage all groups claiming to represent Ndigbo to embrace accountability, mutual respect, and cooperation in pursuit of shared cultural and developmental objectives.

4. A CALL FOR UNITY AND RESPONSIBLE LEADERSHIP

UNIEC Worldwide urges Igbo leaders, traditional rulers, diaspora associations, and community stakeholders to support constructive engagement and reject divisive competition.

As our elders teach, “Igwe bụ ike” — unity is strength. Our heritage is strongest when our institutions demonstrate integrity, respect, and a genuine commitment to the welfare of our people.

CONCLUSION

The United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide extends its commendation and goodwill to His Excellency, Senator John Azuta-Mbata, and the executive leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide for their service to Ndigbo.

We encourage them to continue pursuing institutional credibility, cultural preservation, inclusive consultation, and peaceful cooperation with all relevant stakeholders.

May our leadership remain guided by wisdom, our institutions strengthened by integrity, and our people united by a shared commitment to preserving Igbo heritage and advancing the collective interests of Ndigbo.

“Otu osisi anaghị eme ọhịa” — one tree does not make a forest.

UNITED IGBO ELDERS COUNCIL (UNIEC) WORLDWIDE

Custodians of Heritage • Voices of Conscience • Advocates of Justice and Unity

Non-Partisan • Non-Sectarian • Constitutionally Guided • Peace-Oriented • Elder-Statesmanship Driven

Issued by:

His Lordship, Justice Alpha Ikpeama Director-General (D-G) United Igbo Elders Council (UNIEC) Worldwide