By: Bashir Hassan Abubakar
The Igbo Community in Bauchi State (ICB) has elected a new executive council to steer its affairs for the next three years. The election, which was described as peaceful and hitch-free, was held in Bauchi.
At the end of the exercise, Chief Ignatius Ifemenem, a businessman, was returned unopposed as President-General for a second term to lead all Igbo-speaking towns and communities residing in the state.
In the only contested position, Dr. Okolo Christopher Chuks was re-elected as Vice President-General after polling 54 votes to defeat Elder Emma Ogbonna who scored 42 votes. Other officers who emerged unopposed include Nobel Jude Elekwanya as General Secretary, Igwe Calistus as Assistant General Secretary, Samuel Okah as Treasurer, and Solomon Ushi as Chief Provost.
Other executives elected by consensus are Patrick Onuorah (Financial Secretary), Sunday Nneli (Assistant Financial Secretary), Emmanuel Nnadozie (Chief PRO), Ndubueze Agu (Assistant PRO), Anselem Osi (Provost II), Onwuha Okechukwu (Internal Auditor), Monday Amaliku Mike (Assistant Internal Auditor), Jude Ekegbuchie (Welfare Officer I) and Okoro K (Welfare Officer II).
In his acceptance speech, Chief Ifemenem thanked members for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to deepen unity, love, and peaceful coexistence among Ndigbo in Bauchi and with the host community.
He called on all members, including contestants in the election, to close ranks and rally behind his administration to promote the socio-economic, commercial and political development of the Igbo Community and Bauchi State at large.
