Dr. Eric Opah Elected Chairman Of Oha Nsulu Unity Forum, Usher In New Era

Dr. Eric Opah, a well-known international entrepreneur and philanthropist, has been elected Chairman of the Oha Nsulu Unity Forum (ONUF).

The recent election also resulted in the swearing-in of a new Executive Committee, ushering in a new era for the forum and the Nsulu community in general.

This positive development follows several significant changes in Nsulu, including the Abia State government’s decision to locate the Abia Airport Project on its property.

Dr. Opa and the new executive

While there were some initial reservations, the project has gained widespread acceptance as communication gaps have been bridged and compensation payments have begun, providing landowners with relief and opportunities.

To further strengthen the community’s economic prospects, a dedicated Economic Development Team, led by seasoned banker Fidel Ibeabuchi, is actively advising compensation recipients on how to strategically invest their funds for long-term financial security.

The election of a new ONUF Executive Committee is viewed as a critical step towards consolidating these gains and promoting sustainable development in Nsulu.

Prior to the election, members carefully considered and approved the Forum’s draft constitution, which outlines the organization’s structure, objectives, and operational guidelines.

The adoption came after a motion that received unanimous support, demonstrating the community’s commitment to laying a solid foundation for ONUF’s future efforts.

Chief Friday Onukwue, the interim Chairman for the past three years, along with Hon. I.C. Nwankwere (Secretary) and Chief Emmanuel Emeh (Executive Member), thanked the Constitution Draughting Committee, led by Dr. Emmanuel Dawari, for their dedication and hard work in creating the document

. They praised the committee’s efforts, calling it a “great and tasking job” that was completed successfully.

Rt. Hon. Uzor Azubuike, Dr. Sam Onukwue, Dr. Tony Ibeabuchi, Dr. Obioma Orji, Dr. Chukwuma Offor, Rev. Israel Ukaoma, Mrs. Uchechi Ikonne, Fidel Ibeabuchi, High Chief Chijioke Ozems, Ibeabuchi Godwin, Chief Onyebuchi Ngwaogu, Deacon Henry Nwosu, Francis Chigbu, Hon. Uchenna Nwanbuko, Hon. Jude Ob They emphasised the importance of following the meeting’s agenda when conducting elections.

To make the election process easier, an Electoral Committee was formed, with Barr. Andrew Obinna Ijeri as Chairman, Ody John as Secretary, and Chisom Nwaogbe, Ogbonna Christian Eme Mkka, and Engr. Ugochukwu James as members. The immediate past Executive was disbanded to make way for the exercise.

Dr. Eric Opah won a landslide victory with 348 votes to become Chairman. The following people were elected to their respective positions:

Vice Chairman: Honourable Gospel Uche (308 votes)
Secretary: Dr. Stan Ukaoma. (300 votes)
Assistant Secretary: Deacon Ahamefula Orji. (203 votes)
Treasurer: Emeka Nzemecha (150 votes).
Financial Secretary: Isaac Obisike Nwosu (200 votes).
Publicity Secretary: Prince Clinton Uba (260 votes).
Welfare Officer: Bestman Ugorji (180 votes).
Ex-officio members include Chief Friday Onukwue and Hon. I.C. Nwankwere.

Notably, the position of Legal Adviser, zoned to Amaasaa Nsulu, remained vacant due to the zone’s inability to immediately present a candidate, highlighting the need for additional engagement and representation from that area.

Following the oath of allegiance and office, Dr. Opah gave an inspiring acceptance speech. He thanked the Electoral Committee for ensuring a peaceful and transparent election.

He also recognised the visionaries who came up with the idea for ONUF, as well as the immediate past Executive, led by Chief Friday Onukwue, for their tireless efforts to keep the Forum together.

Dr. Opah also thanked the people of Nsulu for entrusting him with the responsibility of leading the community. He acknowledged the demanding nature of his business schedule, but promised to prioritise Nsulu’s advancement and uphold the ONUF constitution.

“I will rise to the challenges of this large task entrusted to me by our people, and I will collaborate with our think-tank within Nsulu to advance the course of our people,” Dr. Opah stated.

He concluded with a bold vision for the future, declaring, “In a few months, Nsulu will become a community for others to learn from.”

Dr. Opah’s election and the formation of the new Executive Committee have reignited hope and optimism in the Nsulu community.

With a strong leadership team in place and a clear development roadmap, Nsulu is ready to seize new opportunities and create a brighter future for its residents.

The Oha Nsulu Unity Forum, led by Dr. Opah, is expected to play an important role in coordinating these efforts and realising the community’s full potential.