HRM Oparachukwu, hails Oba Ojoto’s victory, cites Alaba peace role, market leadership as proof he’ll deliver ‘new dawn’ for Ndigbo.
Felix Mbata, Lagos state
HRM Eze Ambassador Emmanuel U. Oparachukwu, Eze Udo 1 of Agbado Oke-Odo LCDA, has tasked newly elected Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos State President, Chief Leonard Okafor, Oba Ojoto, to prioritize unity, culture, and transformational development as he assumes office.
In a strongly worded congratulatory message issued on Thursday 30th April, 2026, the Eze described Chief Okafor’s victory as “a testament to your accumulated efforts in fostering the progress of Ohanaeze Ndigbo over the years,” adding that “this is the ripe time to take the mantle of leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos State.”
The endorsement from the respected Eze, whose domain hosts a significant Igbo population, is seen as a major boost for Chief Okafor as he begins reconciliation and restructuring efforts within the Lagos chapter of the apex Igbo socio-cultural body.
THE MESSAGE: ‘YOUR ALABA RECORD SPEAKS FOR YOU’
Eze Oparachukwu anchored his confidence in Chief Okafor’s “renowned administrative excellence,” citing his successful piloting of Alaba International Market and his conglomerate of companies as evidence that “Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos will experience a new dawn” under his watch. The Eze specifically highlighted Chief Okafor’s peacemaking role between former Ohanaeze Lagos President, Chief Solomon Ogbonna Aguene, and Chief Sunday Ossai, calling it “tangible evidence that the progress of Ohanaeze Ndigbo is a top priority to you.”
“Your wealth of experience and exposure in handling the affairs of Alaba International Market, contributing to peace among stakeholders, shows you understand that leadership is about bridge-building,” Eze Oparachukwu stated.
THE CHARGE: FOCUS, CULTURE, POSTERITY
The Eze issued a three-point charge to the new President:
-Unity Above All: “My advice to you is to focus on things that unite Ndigbo. Don’t listen to distractors. Remember that God installed you to create more positive change for posterity.”
– Culture as Identity: “Ohanaeze Ndigbo is known for the exhibition of the culture and tradition of Ndigbo. Ensure that our culture and tradition remain paramount. It is our culture that distinguishes Ndigbo from other tribes.”
– Inclusive Leadership: “I have great trust that your leadership will create opportunities for Ndigbo and embrace different groups and professionals working towards transformational development in Ohanaeze.”
He urged Chief Okafor to “use your position to make Ndigbo in Lagos happy and beyond, so that Ohanaeze Lagos will be a focus and an enviable chapter we can all be proud of.”
CONTEXT: WHY THIS ENDORSEMENT MATTERS
Alaba International Market, which Chief Okafor previously led, is West Africa’s largest electronics hub and a major economic base for Ndigbo in Lagos. His ability to maintain stability there despite market tensions is viewed by allies as a template for state-wide Ohanaeze leadership.
CONCLUSION
Eze Oparachukwu ended his message with a royal blessing: “May God continue to bless you with more wisdom like King Solomon, good health, and long life. Long live Ohanaeze Ndigbo Lagos State. Long live Ohanaeze Worldwide. Long live Nigeria.”
With this endorsement, expectations are high that Chief Okafor’s tenure will mark a shift from internal wrangling to cultural renaissance and economic empowerment for Ndigbo in Lagos..