The Anambra State chapter of Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo has inaugurated a grassroots chapter of the pan-Igbo socio-cultural organisation in Orumba South Local Government Area.

The chairman of the occasion, Chief Alex Okeke, in his opening speech expressed delight at the pace at which Ohanaeze is moving and urged it not to relent in ensuring that Ndigbo get what they deserve at the national level.

In his speech, Chairman of Orumba South LGA, Bar. Emeka Afoka, who represented the state Deputy Governor, Emeka Sibeudu, said that the problem with the Igbo nation is that they do not have the culture of following any one person. He said it was time to stop the slogan “Igbo enwero eze” (“Igbo have no kings.”)

His words: “First, we have to re-orient our value system and place our priority where it is supposed to be. God gave us huge wisdom but it is like that is the problem we are having – too much wisdom.

“We have to start from our family, learn humility and values like the Yoruba people and Onitsha people who incidentally are the only Igbo people that respect their culture.

“Our problem is not just the issue of speaking Igbo Language but lack of honesty which has lost its face in our culture and we must change.”

Also speaking, the state President of Ohanaeze, Elder Chris Eluemunoh, who performed the formal inauguration of the new executive, urged them to be true leaders and lead by example.

While stressing that the foundation of Ohanaeze is the town union, he advised the new executive to respect their office and not be partisan.

“We don’t want Ohanaeze leaders taking part in partisan politics and you have to always bear in mind that holding an office position like this one is total sacrifice,” Eluemunoh said.

The newly inaugurated executive include Sir Kajetan Okeke, Chairman; Gilbert Ulumba, Secretary; Charles Ogu, Legal Adviser; Evelyn Achugwu, Women Leader; and Batholomew Aguekwe, Youth Leader, among others.

In his vote of thanks, Sir Okeke pledged the loyalty of the new executive to the cause of Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo. He promised that politics would not interfere in the running of the organisation in any way.

•Photo: Anambra State President of Ohanaeze, Elder Chris Eluemunoh.

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