KINGSLEY EBERE
The Apex Association of Ndieze, Onyendu and Igbo Nobles (ANNIN) in Lagos State has assigned new strategic roles to the newly inaugurated Onyendu group as part of efforts to reposition and unify all Igbo associations under one umbrella in the State.
The leadership of ANNIN said the new assignment was in line with the constitution and vision of the apex body, which seeks to promote unity, peace and collective progress among Ndigbo residing in Lagos.
Under the new structure, the association of Onyendu led by Onyendu Uche Dimgba and John Greg Ngaubadi will now be in charge of coordinating town unions and market unions across Lagos State. This follows their decision to relinquish the Eze Udo title previously conferred on them by the late Ezendigbo of Lagos State, Eze Hyacinth Ohazuruike.
The development was disclosed by the President General of ANNIN, Dr. Femi Ferguson (Agu Aro), during the inaugural general meeting of the association held at the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.
Speaking at the meeting which was attended by Ndieze, Onyendu, Igbo leaders, town union presidents and market leaders, Dr. Ferguson said ANNIN is a body duly registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) with the core mandate of fostering unity among all Igbo groups in Lagos State.
According to him, one of the major aims and objectives of ANNIN is to bring together all Igbo socio-cultural organizations including Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Igbo Speaking Community, Council of Ndieze, Onyendu groups, market unions, town unions and various professional bodies under one umbrella for effective representation and development.
Dr. Ferguson noted that for several years, Igbo organizations in Lagos State have been faced with internal crises, leadership tussles and factionalization, which have affected the unity and collective voice of Ndigbo in the State.
He explained that ANNIN was formed to address these challenges, reconcile aggrieved groups and restore peace and confidence among Igbo people in Lagos.
He stated that the association was carefully structured to accommodate every group, irrespective of affiliation, so that peace and unity would be restored and the lost glory of Ndigbo in Lagos State would be regained.
Dr. Ferguson further disclosed that the decision to assign town unions and market unions to the Onyendu group under the leadership of Uche Dimgba and John Greg Ngaubadi was reached after extensive consultations with stakeholders and traditional leaders.
He said the move would ensure proper coordination of activities at the grassroots, enhance communication between the apex body and the various unions, and strengthen Igbo cultural values and economic contributions in Lagos.
He emphasized that ANNIN remains committed to working with the Lagos State Government, other ethnic groups and security agencies to promote peaceful coexistence, economic growth and development of the State.
According to him, ANNIN will continue to engage all Igbo groups through dialogue and inclusive leadership to ensure that every Igbo person in Lagos State feels a sense of belonging.
Leaders present at the inaugural meeting commended the initiative and pledged their support for the new leadership structure, describing it as a step in the right direction towards achieving lasting peace and unity among Ndigbo in Lagos State.
They also called on all Igbo associations in the State to embrace the umbrella body and work together for the common interest of Ndigbo.
The meeting ended with a call for all Igbo sons and daughters in Lagos to remain law-abiding, united and committed to the development of both Lagos State and the South-East region.