By Frank Ulom
CALABAR (CONVERSEER) – The President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Cross River State chapter, Chief Chukwuemeka Egwuonwu, has reiterated that the unity of the Igbo people within the state and across Nigeria is non-negotiable.
Chief Egwuonwu said the Igbo remain committed to growth and development wherever they reside, which is why they remain united and law-abiding both at home and in the diaspora.
He made this known shortly after a Thanksgiving mass at St. Bernard Catholic Church, Calabar, held as part of activities marking his birthday.
Addressing journalists, Chief Egwuonwu described the unity of the Igbo community in Cross River as a top priority, adding that his leadership has commenced the harmonisation of all Igbo groups in the state to foster togetherness.
“Igbo people love growth and development wherever they are. Without unity of purpose, there can be no real progress. My leadership is focused on the unity and progress of our people. Already, we have started bringing together all factions and groups to ensure we are on the same page for the advancement of our people.
“We commend the Cross River State government for providing a conducive environment for us to do business. In return, we conduct ourselves and our businesses in line with the law.
“From the moment we assumed office, we began resolving disputes and promoting reconciliation among various groups. I assure the Igbo in Cross River that what we could not achieve before will become a reality under my leadership,” he said.
He further announced that the current executive of Ohanaeze Ndigbo in Cross River will hold a thanksgiving service and official inauguration on 19 October 2025. The event, he noted, will attract prominent personalities from Igbo land, Cross River, Nigeria, and the diaspora, and will feature a carnival-like atmosphere.
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Former President of the Igbo Community in Calabar, Sir Obi Oyeka, described Chief Egwuonwu as a unifier whose leadership would bring measurable growth and development to the Igbo in the state.
“Igbo who were once distant from one another will become more united. Chief Egwuonwu has shown great capacity in matters concerning the Igbo and I believe he will achieve even more now that he is in this position.
“I appeal to the good people of Cross River, especially Governor Bassey Otu, to continue giving him and other Igbo sons and daughters the necessary support to contribute to the state’s growth.
“The Igbo are catalysts for progress wherever they live. Cross River is fertile ground and we want it to flourish for everyone while attracting more business to the state,” Oyeka said.
As part of his birthday celebrations, Chief Egwuonwu visited an orphanage and an old people’s home, where he donated food and non-food items to support the residents.
