Apex Igbo socio-cultural group, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, on Saturday endorsed the Governor of Enugu state, Dr Peter Mbah for re-election.urging the Nigerian President , Bola Tinubu to prioritise development in IgboIand and release the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Mazi Nnamdi Kalu.
The endorsement which took place at a mega rally held at the the Michael Okpara Square , Enugu, was led by the Enugu State chapter of Ohanaeze Ndigbo and reinforced by national and regional leaders of the organisation, including the President-General, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, John Azuta-Mbata, who was represented by the Rivers State President of Ohanaeze, Livingstone Weche
.
Delivering the message of the President-General, Weche commended Governor Mbah for his leadership style and commitment to development in Enugu State.
“Ndi Igbo are proud of you. You have digitised Enugu State and become a reference point for development. The facts speak for themselves,” Weche said.
He added that the Ohanaeze leadership appreciated the governor’s consistent support for the organisation.
“Each time the President-General visits Enugu, you reach out to ensure his comfort. All events held here have enjoyed your full support. We do not take this for granted.”
Weche, however, used the platform to deliver key messages on behalf of Ohanaeze to the Federal Government under Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to prioritise development and security of the Igbo nation.
“We urge Mr. President to prioritise the development and security of Ala Igbo and ensure equal access to opportunities for all Nigerians,” he said.
He also made a passionate appeal for the release of Nnamdi Kanu.
“There is one prayer in the heart of every Igbo man… that Mr. President should kindly release Nnamdi Kanu back to us.”
Another speaker at the event, representing Ohanaeze stakeholders, highlighted the impact of Mbah’s policies at the grassroots level, particularly in healthcare.
“Today, we now have hospitals in communities where villagers can speak freely to doctors without intimidation. That is a major change from what we had before,” he said.
He described the governor as “an exemplary leader” whose work has brought pride to Igbo land.
Speaking after receiving the endorsement, Governor Mbah described the moment as unexpected and deeply symbolic.
“When I was informed of this event, I thought I was just coming for an endorsement and the usual response. Little did I know there were other plans,” Mbah said.
“Nobody told me to expect the showers of blessings… and I didn’t know I was going to receive the seal of authority( ofo) from our elders and royal fathers. This truly marks today as a historic day.”
Gov Mbah speaking at the event
He noted that the endorsement went beyond local politics, revealing a broader strategic direction by Ohanaeze Ndigbo.
“This is not just Ohanaeze endorsing one of its sons. The Enugu chapter has also extended that trust beyond the Niger, asking me to convey their support to the President who is not even from this tribe. That is remarkable.”
I Mbah invoked the legacy of former Eastern Region Premier, Michael Okpara, to stress the importance of unity and strategic alliances.
“We are not people known for short-term reactions. We are known for strategic thinking..
“Our forebears understood when to rise above self-interest and pursue the common good of Ndi Igbo,”he said
The governor also outlined key achievements of his administration, including investments in education, healthcare, aviation, and tourism.
“The skyline of Enugu is changing. This is no longer a slogan — it is visible progress that we can see, touch, and feel,” he stated.
He revealed that over 30 per cent of the state’s budget had been committed to education in recent years.
“If we must preserve our identity, we must invest in our children. They must stay, create wealth, and build the future here.”
“We will not betray this trust”
Mbah concluded by describing the endorsement as a responsibility rather than a celebration.
“I do not see this honour just as authority. I see it as a responsibility to do more for our people,” he said.
“We will not betray this trust. We will not let you down.”
The event ended on a note of unity and renewed purpose, with stakeholders urging continued collaboration among Igbo leaders and stronger engagement at the national level.
The endorsement signals a shift in political strategy within the South-East , one that blends regional solidarity with broader national alignment. As Mbah put it ,“Today is our tomorrow… because tomorrow is already here.”
In interviews with Newsmen, the chairman of Igboeze South Local Government Area, Hon Ferdinand Ukwueze, that of Uzo-uwani, Hon. Chijioke Ezeugwu, their Nsukka counterpart, Hon Jude Asogwa, and Udenu Local Government chairman, Hon , Aka Eze Aka, respectively, described the endorsement as meritorious following the governor’s numerous achievements. They said Governor Mbah has redefined governance in Nigeria.
Highlight of the event was the presentation of an Igbo traditional symbol of authority (Ofo) to Governor Mbah, which signifies confidence in his leadership and support for his re-election in 2027.
The event was attended by Royal Fathers, , top government officials including the Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Ifeanyi Ossai; the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu; members of the National Assembly; Local Government chairmen including the chairman of Udenu local government area,Hon. Aka Eze Aka, Isiuzo L. G.A Hon. Obiora Ubagu ,their Nsukka counterpoint,Hon Jude Asogwa, and leaders of Ohanaeze chapters from Delta, Anambra, Imo, Ebonyi, Abia, and Rivers states among others.
