Ohaneze Holds Igbo Unity Carnival in Lagos Today

By Akinwale Akintunde

Ohaneze, socio cultural group will today holds its general Igbo cultural fiesta at the National Stadium, Lagos.

The carnival, tagged ‘Ndigbo Unity Rally’ is aimed at promoting unity among Igbos and non-Igbo in the country.

Speaking at a press briefing to herald the carnival, President of Ohaneze Ndigbo in Lagos, Chief Fabian Onwughalu, said the carnival will not only bring all the Igbos together as one but would also promote and add value to the economy of the host state, Lagos.

According him, the event will also afford them the opportunity to unfold new charter of engagement, driven by a deep sense of urgency and need for Igbos everywhere to unite and remain challenged by a resolve never to allow disunity deny us the fruits of oneness again, especially in Lagos.

Speaking further on the new charter, the Coordinator, Coalition of Traders and Market Association, Chief Nnamdi Nwigwe said “We are aware that our hunger and desire for progress, peace and security requisite for development are impaired by the grievous absence of internal cohesion and sustained solidarity for our higher collective interests.

“Determine to pursue a culturally enhanced and peaceful coexistence with our neighbours especially our generous hosts, inspired by shared values of respect, love, discipline and inclusivity; 

“Convinced that the time for Ndigbo to wake up is now, to reverse the narratives that divides us, fosters bitter animosities and promotes deep betrayals, especially by career black soldiers of shame.

“We the Ohaneze Ndigbo in Lagos, after careful consideration,  have unanimously decided that the programme ‘TAA BU GBOO’ would serve as a rallying mechanism to revive and renew our drive to actualize the change we desire, through our new charter of engagement. 

“Together for Better; United for Greater”, consequently, our Mission in this regard as a vibrant and potent socio-cultural group is; To purposefully and strategically, pursue to secure, with one accord, the gold band of  unity and peace amongst Igbos, as the clear logical foundation to realize our national dues as citizens, and earn our natural dates with destiny”, Nwigwe stated.

Also, Chairman of the Planning Committee, Chief Tobechukwu Ezeani, said the carnival will have as special guests National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu, Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode and other South west governors.

According to Ezeani, Chairman, Capi­tal Oil and Publish­er of The Authority Newspapers, Dr. Ifeanyi Ubah will also be conferred with the title of Grand Patron of the Ohaneze Ndigbo at the event.

“We are inviting all nationalities, especially our dear host community, to this epic cultural confetti because the bond of humanity is most eloquent in sharing. After all, a masquerade cannot enjoy dancing without spectators,” he said.