Anya-Ndi-Igbo, the umbrella association of major Igbo organisations, has showered accolades on elder statesman and celebrated economist, Dr. Uma Oke Eleazu, describing him as a rare moral compass and national treasure.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!This commendation came as Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, hosted a grand civic reception in honour of the distinguished nonagenarian in Umuahia.
In a statement jointly endorsed by leaders of key Igbo bodies, including the President of Anya-Ndi-Igbo, Engr. Chris Okoye, the group applauded Governor Otti for fulfilling his promise to celebrate Dr. Eleazu after his 95th birthday was earlier marked in Lagos. The gesture was hailed as “fidelity in its most elegant form” and a clear reflection of the Igbo tradition of giving honour to whom it is due.
“By celebrating Elder Eleazu, Governor Otti has reaffirmed his character as a leader who values integrity and service,” the statement read. “His act exemplifies the Igbo worldview that true leadership is rooted in gratitude, respect, and recognition of selfless contributions to humanity.”
The organisation highlighted Dr. Eleazu’s lifelong commitment to public service, scholarship, and patriotic engagement. It chronicled his accomplished career as an economist, policy scientist, administrator, author, and former presidential aspirant. It further celebrated his pioneering role in co-founding Anya-Ndi-Igbo, a non-partisan platform championing equity, justice, peace, and national unity, where he currently serves as Chairman of the Board of Trustees.
Referencing his earlier interview with TheNiche newspaper, the statement recalled Dr. Eleazu’s words expressing confidence in Governor Otti’s administration and the renewed hope Abia residents are experiencing under his leadership.
“Since Dr. Otti became governor, I have started having hope that things can change,” he said.
Anya-Ndi-Igbo praised Dr. Eleazu’s humility, integrity, and intellectual depth, noting that he remains among the last of a respected generation of patriotic Nigerians known for upholding values of respect, justice, and accountability.
The statement was jointly signed by notable Igbo leaders, including Emeka Nwadioke, Esq. (Ag. Secretary, Anya-Ndi-Igbo); Chief Nduka Eya (BOT Member); Prof. Elo Amucheazi (Igbo Leaders of Thought); Agbalanze Chike Madueke (Aka-Ikenga); Bishop Obi Onubogu (Alaigbo Development Foundation); Prof. Chinedu Nebo (Nzuko Umunna); Iyom Josephine Anenih (Nkata Ndi Iyom); Dr. Festus Okere (World Igbo Congress); Mr. Okechukwu Unegbu (Otu Oka Iwu); Chief Chris Ekeoba Ugodinma (Association of Alaigbo Town Unions, Lagos); Dr. Nwachukwu Anakwenze (Igbo World Assembly); Amadiebube Mbama (Global Igbo Leaders); Dr. (Mrs.) McCarthy Uzoama Josephine Aguoji (Council of Igbo States in America); Diokpa Delly Ajufo (Anioma Redemption Group); and Ikechukwu Amaechi (Chairman, Media & Strategic Communications Committee, Anya-Ndi-Igbo).