Senator John Mbata, the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has firmly asserted his Igbo heritage, dismissing recent criticisms as misguided and emphasizing the need for unity and political strategy.
During a courtesy visit by the Opobo Elder Statesmen-4-Sim in Port Harcourt on Monday, Mbata reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening inter-ethnic relations and supporting Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara.
Responding to his critics, Mbata remarked, “I see my responsibility as building bridges as a president of ohanaeze ndiIgbo. We must connect our people to a much larger platform for development.” He underscored that his Igbo identity remains unshaken, despite differing opinions.
“Some people claim ancestry from Benin, and that’s fine. But we also acknowledge our strong ties to the Igbo. No matter how much people talk, I will never deny my Igbo identity. We are interconnected, and these debates will eventually settle. My focus remains on fostering unity,” he stated.
Highlighting the political landscape, Mbata stressed the importance of engaging in national politics. “Politics is played from Abuja. Decisions are made there before reaching the states. We must position ourselves strategically to have access to those in power,” he added.
Chairman of the Opobo Elder Statesmen-4-Sim, Edwin Cockeye-Brown, congratulated Mbata on his election as Ohanaeze President-General and praised his steadfast support for Governor Fubara before, during, and after the election.
“During the impeachment attempt, you stood by the governor like a shining star. You remained resolute and never wavered,” Cockeye-Brown noted, highlighting the historical relationship between the Mbata family and the Opobo people, tracing back to his late father, Elder Samuel Mbata.
Cockeye-Brown further emphasized that the visit included distinguished Opobo leaders, elders, and youth representatives, signifying a collective commitment to unity in Rivers State. He described Mbata’s election as divinely ordained and a testament to his steadfast leadership.
The Rivers State Chairman of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Livingstone Wechie, described the visit as historic and a recognition of Mbata’s leadership among the over 100 million Ndigbo worldwide.
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“This visit is both historic and prophetic. Today, the tallest Ikwerre son, both in height and stature, has been entrusted with the leadership of Ndigbo globally. This is the stone that the builders rejected, now becoming the chief cornerstone,” Wechie remarked, pledging continued support for Governor Fubara.
Chief Lawrence Oko-Jaja, SAN, who introduced the delegation, emphasized their visit as a demonstration of unity and collaboration. He praised Mbata’s integrity and commitment to advancing the interests of the Ikwerre people on both local and international fronts.
The delegation collectively expressed their readiness to work together to promote peace, development, and cultural heritage. They affirmed their belief that under Mbata’s leadership, Ohanaeze Ndigbo would continue to thrive and serve as a formidable voice for the Igbo people.
