Ohanaeze celebrates Obi of Onitsha at 85, hails leadership

Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has congratulated the Obi of Onitsha, His Majesty Nnaemeka Achebe, as he marks his 85th birthday, describing him as a beacon of wisdom, unity and cultural preservation.

In a statement signed by the National Publicity Secretary of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Dr Ezechi Chukwu, and issued on Wednesday, the group joined “millions of admirers, sons and daughters of Alaigbo, friends of Onitsha Kingdom and well-wishers across the globe” in celebrating the monarch.

Ohanaeze said the traditional ruler, also known as Agbogidi, has continued to demonstrate “wisdom, courage, dignity, integrity and statesmanship” throughout his reign.

It added that his leadership had brought “immense honour not only to the ancient Kingdom of Onitsha but also to the entire Igbo nation and Nigeria at large.”

The organisation commended the monarch for his commitment to peace, justice, equity, national unity and cultural renaissance, as well as his contributions to good governance advocacy and societal harmony.

“Your Majesty’s contributions to nation-building, your outstanding service in both the corporate and traditional institutions and your passionate advocacy for good governance and societal harmony continue to inspire hope and confidence in our people,” the statement read.

Ohanaeze also described the Obi as a moral compass and a father figure whose leadership continues to inspire generations across the Igbo nation.

In a special tribute, the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Senator Azuta Mbata, praised the monarch for his consistent support for the organisation.

“His Majesty, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, remains one of the foremost pillars of the Igbo nation whose wisdom, patriotism and unwavering support for Ohanaeze Ndigbo have continued to strengthen our collective resolve towards unity, progress and dignity of Ndigbo,” he said.

The group prayed for continued good health, strength and long life for the monarch as he marks the milestone anniversary, wishing him many more years of service to his people and humanity.