BY: Vitalis Ugoh, Calabar
An Igbo socio-cultural group operating under the name “Ogbako Anambra”, in Cross River State, has successfully organized an election to elect new leaders to pilot its affairs in the next three years.
The election was described as “one of the most successful elections” been conducted in recent times among different segment of Igbo associations operating in the state because of its peaceful conduct.
Before the out gone executives were dissolved, the President, Ogbuevi, Emmanuel Okechukwu (Ikpe-Malu-Eziokwu), had thanked members for the cooperation and support given them throughout their tenure.
Ogbuevi Okechukwu promised that the election was going to be conducted according to the guidelines as enshrined in the constitution of the association.
Thereafter, the former Exco was dissolved with the appointment of four man Election Committee to serve as Returning Officer for the success of the election.
The conduct of the election was carefully and peacefully handled by Mr. Anayo Okafor (KSM) who served as the Chief Returning Officer. The election was held at the premises of Eze Igbo, Cross River, Chief Emmanuel Ezenwenyi at State Housing, Calabar.
Accreditation of delegates from the 14 components Unions in Calabar and its environs took place with a 81 persons officially accredited.
At the end, a thorough and smooth process to get new leaders take the mantle to lead Ogbako Anambra to the next level was Dr Charles Anyanechi elected as President. He is from Anambra Southern Senatorial Zone, Vice-president Barr. Chuma Eboh, from Central Senatorial zone.
Others elected includes, Barr Chidozie Efifie, (Secretary), Mr Augustine Ilobi, Asst. Sec.,Mr Ekene Olisaeke(treasurer) Chinaedu Okafor (Fin. Sec) Mr Basil Eze (PRO) Chief Calistus Ikwuansi( Chief Welfare) Pst Okwudili Edochie, Azuka Umezuoro and Ifeanyi Oguegbu as circular bearer.
Others are Mr. Emmanuel Ndujekwu (Provost) and Barr. Chris Ogbogu (Legal Adviser).
Addressing the newly elected officers, Nna Ndi Anambra, Ogbuevi Joseph O. Ameke (Chinyelugo) (KSM), advised to always be guided with the constitution of the association.This is the only way to success.
He enjoined the new Exco to always reference the immediate past Exco if it has to succeed for direction and guidance.
Earlier in his acceptance speech, the President, Dr. Charles Anyanechi, had extended the hand of fellowship to those who contested and lost in the election to come together, adding “united we stand but divided we fall”.
“By this peaceful and rancour free election, Ogbako Anambra will be stronger and focused than ever, he added”.
He therefore appreciated all those that came to participate in the election to chart a new course towards moving Ogbako Anambra forward.
Dr. Anyanechi pledged to bring the of people of Anambra living in Cross River State doing their business together in unity.
He prayed that God should give the new leaders the grace to run the affairs of the association during the three year tenure and sued for cooperation.
