The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, led by President-General Senator John Azuta-Mbata, has commended the Igbanke community in Edo State for boldly affirming their Igbo heritage during the Igbanke Unity Festival. The event, themed “Igbanke Nor be Bini”, highlighted the community’s cultural roots and commitment to preserving their Igbo identity.

In a statement, Azuta-Mbata praised the Akiko Uwa Social Cultural Group for organizing the festival, calling it “a beacon of hope for Igbo unity”. He emphasized:

“By proudly affirming your Igbo ancestry, you have demonstrated resilience against historical misconceptions.”

The Igbanke community, located in Edo State, has long debated its historical ties to the Igbo ethnic group. The festival reinforced their cultural alignment with Ndigbo, drawing support from Ohanaeze leadership.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo pledged to:

• Integrate Igbanke into Igbo socio-cultural activities.
• Support future initiatives promoting Igbo heritage.
• Strengthen partnerships with diaspora Igbo communities.

“Igbo bu ofu (We are one). Together, we’ll achieve more.” — Sen. Azuta-Mbata