The Asagba of Asaba, HRM Prof. Epiphany Azinge, SAN, has urged Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide to intensify efforts towards the preservation and promotion of the Igbo language, culture and heritage.
According to an official statement signed by the Global Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Dr. Ezechi Chukwu, Azinge made the call on Sunday, September 20, 2026, at the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Public Enlightenment Forum held at the Grand Hotel, Asaba, Delta State.
The traditional ruler commended the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Senator Azuta Mbata, and the Global Executive Council for their initiatives aimed at preserving and promoting Igbo language, culture and heritage.
He urged the organisation to sustain and deepen such initiatives, stressing that protecting the Igbo language and cultural identity was essential to preserving the heritage for future generations.
Azinge also condemned the emergence of multiple pan-Igbo groups issuing conflicting public statements in the name of Ndigbo, instead of aligning with the leadership and programmes of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, which he described as the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation.
The Asagba recalled his longstanding involvement in Ohanaeze Ndigbo, including his service on various global committees before he became the traditional ruler of Asaba, saying his experience had reinforced the importance of collective action and unity in advancing the interests and aspirations of Ndigbo.
He specifically commended Senator Mbata for his initiatives and efforts towards repositioning Ohanaeze Ndigbo and promoting the interests, unity and cultural heritage of the Igbo people.
Earlier, the national leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, in conjunction with the Delta State Executive and other chieftains, had paid a courtesy visit to the Asagba at his palace in Asaba.
Chukwu, who represented the President-General during the visit, conveyed Mbata’s goodwill to the traditional ruler before Azinge later joined the gathering at the Grand Hotel, where he addressed participants and responded to issues raised during the forum.
The forum featured a keynote address by the Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide and former Deputy Governor of Anambra State, H.E. Emeka Sibeudu.
The event, organised by the Delta State Chapter of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, was themed, “Understanding Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Its Mandate, Activities and Roles.”
Sibeudu provided an overview of the history, mandate, evolving role and activities of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, highlighting initiatives of the Senator Azuta Mbata-led Global Executive Council to strengthen Igbo unity, preserve the Igbo language and culture, promote education and advance the welfare and aspirations of Ndigbo.
Among the initiatives highlighted were the Professorial Endowment Chair programme, as well as scholarship and bursary initiatives approved for 200 students studying Igbo Language in tertiary institutions across Nigeria.
Mbata, who was the Special Guest of Honour, was represented by Chukwu, who delivered his goodwill message.
The President-General charged the Delta State Chapter and Ndigbo in general to remain law-abiding, peaceful and committed to constitutional order.
He stressed the importance of respecting the Constitution and established processes in the conduct of Ohanaeze affairs, while encouraging dialogue, unity and peaceful engagement in resolving differences.
Responding to the keynote address, the Deputy Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide and a major stakeholder of the organisation in Delta State, Ogbueshi Godfrey Odogwu, thanked the national leadership for honouring the state chapter’s invitation.
He also commended Mbata for initiatives aimed at repositioning Ohanaeze Ndigbo to respond to the yearnings and aspirations of Ndigbo.
The State President, Chief Benjamin Igumbor, corroborated the remarks and expressed support for the direction of the organisation.
The forum was attended by Ohanaeze leaders from different states, including Rivers State President Livingstone Wechie; Enugu State President, High Chief Agbalanze Uche Damian Obisi; and Mazi Chukwuma Okpalaezukwu, President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Anambra State and Acting Global Youth Leader of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide.
Prominent sons and daughters of Igbo land from Delta State also attended the forum, including Chief Prof. Leroy Edoziem, Obi (Hon.) Chimeta Okonta, Ogbueshi Paschal Onuku, Hon. Chief Engr. Emma Eboh, who represented Senator Ned Nwoko, Chief Mrs. Lizzy Chiazor, Chief Amb. Charles Onianwa, Chief Barr. Philip Nwokolo, Dr. Kingsley Ojie, Prince Uzoma Idaboh and Ogbueshi Silver Oforgu, among others.
The forum underscored the importance of preserving the Igbo language and culture, strengthening unity among Ndigbo, respecting constitutional processes and promoting cooperation between Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, its chapters, affiliate groups and the wider Igbo community.
