Igbo Speaking Community Inaugurates Elders Council in Lagos, Seeks Stronger Role in Governance

Igbo Speaking Community Inaugurates Elders Council in Lagos, Seeks Stronger Role in Governance

By Naomi Onome

The Igbo Speaking Community in Lagos has inaugurated its Elders Council for the first time since the association was established in 1989, a move aimed at strengthening leadership, promoting unity, and fostering peaceful coexistence among members and host communities in Lagos State.

Speaking during the inauguration ceremony, the President-General of the Igbo Speaking Community in Lagos, Chief Dr. Sunday Udeh, described the development as a landmark achievement for the association, noting that the Elders Council had always been part of the organization’s constitutional framework but had never been formally constituted by previous administrations.

According to Udeh, Article 7 of the association’s constitution recognizes three major organs of the body – the General Assembly, the Women’s Wing, and the Elders Council. He explained that although the constitution was enacted in 1989, successive leaderships failed to operationalize the Elders Council until the current administration.

“The Elders Council is not a new creation. It has existed in our constitution for over 36 years. We felt it was important to carry our fathers and elders along because no association can thrive without the guidance, prayers and advice of its elders,” he said.

He noted that the newly inaugurated council would serve as an advisory body to the executive committee and help ensure the association remains focused on its objectives.

During the ceremony, members of the council were sworn in and presented with letters of appointment outlining their responsibilities. The terms of reference include protecting the integrity and welfare of the Igbo Speaking Community, advising the executive committee, promoting Igbo cultural values, defending the association’s constitution, resolving disputes among members, and participating in council activities.

Chief Udeh also used the occasion to call for greater recognition of the Igbo Speaking Community by the Lagos State Government, describing the association as the first registered Igbo organization in Nigeria and one that previously enjoyed official recognition in the state’s protocol structure.

On political participation, Udeh emphasized the need for continued peaceful coexistence between Igbos and other ethnic groups in Lagos, urging political leaders to engage the Igbo community beyond election periods.

“Igbos have always contributed to the growth and development of Lagos. We believe in peaceful coexistence and supporting the government where we reside. We only ask that our people are carried along and recognized for their contributions,” he stated.

Also speaking, former President-General of the association and Chairman of Ndigbo in APC, Lagos State, High Chief Chris Ekwilo (JP), commended the current administration for establishing the Elders Council, describing it as a gathering of respected leaders with proven records of service.

He said the council would provide stability and guidance to the association while strengthening relationships between the Igbo community and the Lagos State Government.

Ekwilo reiterated the commitment of Ndigbo in Lagos to peaceful coexistence and political participation, urging government officials and political stakeholders to maintain engagement with the Igbo community ahead of future elections.

The Legal Adviser of the association, Barrister Charles Aniakor, described the inauguration as a historic milestone, noting that elders play a critical role in conflict resolution and community development.

“Where there are no elders, there is no foundation. The elders are the custodians of wisdom and are needed to resolve disputes and guide younger generations. This inauguration is long overdue and will help strengthen the Igbo community in Lagos,” he said.

Aniakor added that Igbos have continued to contribute significantly to the economic and social development of Lagos State and remain committed to peace and harmony with their host communities.

Similarly, the newly appointed Chairman of the Elders Council and Eze Ndigbo of Mushin, Eze Dr. John Nwosu, described the inauguration as a step in the right direction.

According to him, the council will serve as a bridge between the executive leadership of the association and traditional institutions, while promoting peace among Igbos and their host communities.

“Our duty is to ensure peace and stability. With the Elders Council now in place, we can effectively liaise with leaders of host communities and help prevent conflicts. Peace remains essential for development and good governance,” Nwosu said.

At the event, a copy of the 1989 Constitution of the Igbo Speaking Community in Lagos was formally presented to the chairman of the newly inaugurated Elders Council.

The members inaugurated into the Elders Council include Eze (Dr.) John C. Nwosu (Chairman), Barrister Emeka Ukachi (Secretary), Eze Chukwudi B. Okparaku, Eze Godwin Njubuigbo, Eze (Pastor) Okey Anorue, Eze Steven Agabiga, Chief Godwin Umeugoji, Elder Chioma Akomas, Elder Alex Okeke, Chief Charles Chukwu, Eze (Dr.) Jossy Egwuatu, Onowu Chidi Ozuome, Chief (Mrs.) Kate Ugoka, High Chief Chris Ekwilo, Chief Leonard Okafor, Chief Innocent Nwaogwugwu, Chief (Mrs.) Doris Okere, High Chief Fred Ikpo Muoma, Rev. Theo Onwuzor, High Chief Innocent Ezedimbu, Eze Timothy Nwanoro, Chief Anamnobi Ukadike, and Onowu Prince Andymoore Ezejioha.

The inauguration marks a new chapter for the Igbo Speaking Community in Lagos as it seeks to strengthen its internal structures, preserve cultural heritage, and promote unity and peaceful coexistence within the state.