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Aba North LGA Chairman, Hon. Timothy Kalu Iheke Leads Dignitaries as Oha-na-Eze Ndị Igbo Inaugurates New Executive Council in Grand Cultural Ceremony

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9 months ago

November 23, 2025

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In a vibrant display of unity, cultural pride, and renewed purpose, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Oha-na-Eze Ndị Igbo, Aba North Chapter, formally inaugurated its new executive council on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at the Aba North Local Government Council Headquarters, Eziama-Aba. The event, which attracted community leaders, government officials, cultural advocates, and admirers of Igbo heritage, was graced by the Executive Chairman of Aba North LGA, Hon. Timothy Kalu Iheke, who described the occasion as a defining moment for Ndị Igbo in the area.

Hon. Iheke, who arrived from a prior engagement attended alongside the Governor, apologized for his late arrival, explaining that the delay stemmed from another official assignment.

Speaking passionately, he reminded the audience of the collective ownership and responsibility that Oha-na-Eze bears for all Igbo people.

“I want to tell you all that Oha-na-Eze Ndị Igbo belongs to us all and the Igbos are going through trying times and temptations and whatever actions we take now will determine the results. So I plead with the Oha-na-Eze to speak to themselves,” he said.

The Chairman highlighted a key cultural insight shared earlier in the day by Nollywood icon Chinedu Ikedieze (Aki), who underscored the importance of preserving indigenous languages.

According to Hon. Iheke, the actor noted that in key gatherings held by other ethnic groups, local dialects are used irrespective of educational status or societal position, a practice he urged Ndigbo to emulate.

Hon. Iheke added that the common Igbo bloodline remains the strongest unifying force among the people. He reflected on historical census records from the colonial era that placed the Igbo population higher than what is reflected today, questioning the sharp numerical decline and calling for introspection among the people.

He concluded with a firm assurance that his administration continues to support Oha-na-Eze and would sustain that support in advancing Igbo unity and cultural preservation.

Earlier in his address, the Abia State President of Oha-na-Eze Ndị Igbo, Dr. Chukwuemeka Okwuonu, delivered a stirring message on identity, origin, and collective responsibility.

He emphasized that the challenges of today remind Igbo people of the need to re-embrace their heritage.

“The Nation today is reminding us of our origin. The Igbos are known to strive in business, trade and commerce in every parts of the world,” he said.

Dr. Okwuonu stressed the importance of never forgetting one’s roots, regardless of global migration or business expansion. He urged Ndị Igbo to adopt the philosophy of “Aku-ru-ulo”, nvesting at home to ensure stability, continuity, and support in times of unforeseen events, or “paraventure something happens.”

He reiterated that the Igbo remain an integral part of Nigeria’s fabric and encouraged the new executives to champion unity, culture, and heritage within Aba North.

in hia acceptance speech, the newly inaugurated Chairman, Mazi Aliche Chijioke Otti (Ikemba Aro), expressed deep gratitude for being chosen as Chairman of Ohaneze Ndi Igbo, Aba North.

“It is with a heart full of gratitude that I say ndewo nu, for finding me worthy to serve as the Chairman of Ohaneze Ndi Igbo, Aba North LGA Chapter,” he said.

He accepted the role with humility, emphasizing unity, truth, and progress. He pledged to uphold Igbo values, promote culture, protect community interests, and strengthen the voice of Ohaneze in Aba North.

“This is a big honour and also a great responsibility. My Exco and I accept it with humility and the commitment to serve our people with truth, unity, and progress,” he assured.

He called for collective support to build a more united body, urging everyone to stand together.

“Ohaneze bu anyi niile. Together, we will uphold the values of Ndi Igbo, promote our culture, protect our interests, and give our people a strong voice here in Aba North and beyond.

“With your support, I believe we will build a stronger, more united Ohaneze,” he said.

He concluded with a prayer for God’s guidance and protection.

“Let us stand as one, onye aghala nwanneya.

“May Chukwu Okike continue to guide and protect us. Ndewo nu.”

The oath of office was administered by the State Legal Adviser, Barr. Hon. Rufus U. Ogojiaku.

The event, anchored by one of Aba’s finest MCs, Hon. Tony Agbayim of MAGIC FM, featured moments of cultural colour, camaraderie, and celebration.

Those present included: the Deputy Chairman of Aba North LGA, Hon. Christian Chijioke Ogbuisi; Leader of Aba North Legislative Council, Rt. Hon. Nnamdi Sunday; Members of the Aba North Legislative Council; Special Assistant to the Governor on Youths Development, Comrade Onyebuchi Chukwu; HRM Eze Udodirim Sunday; Friends, families, and well-wishers who came out in large numbers

The occasion ended with warm pleasantries and refreshments as attendees congratulated the new executives.

FULL LIST OF NEWLY INAUGURATED OHA-NA-EZE NDI IGBO ABA NORTH EXECUTIVE MEMBERS:

1. Chairman: Mazi Aliche Chijioke Otti (Ikemba Aro)

2. Deputy Chairman: Mr. Ndubuisi Iheanacho

3. Secretary: Dr. Princess Amarachi Iheadindu

4. 1st Vice Chairman: Mr. Stephen Chukwu Okoronkwo

5. 2nd Vice Chairman: Obumuneke Ikonne

6. Legal Adviser: Hon. Barr. Geoffrey Ike Nwaticha

7. Assistant Legal Adviser: Barr. Gladys Onwuchikwa

8. Assistant Secretary: Mr. Mba Kalu Agwu

9. Organising Secretary: Chinenye Godwin

10. Assistant Organising Secretary: Uchechukwu Sampson Ugwuibe