Understanding the Distinction Between Ohanaeze Ndigbo and United Igbo Elders Council Worldwide (UNIEC)

In the rich tapestry of Igbo culture, various organizations have emerged to represent the interests, values, and aspirations of different segments of the community. Among these, two prominent groups stand out: Ohanaeze Ndigbo and the United Igbo Elders Council Worldwide. While both organizations aim to promote the welfare of the Igbo people, they differ significantly in their composition, focus, and structure. This article seeks to outline the key differences between these two organizations.

COMPOSITION AND MEMBERSHIP:

OHANAEZE NDIGBO: Founded in 1976, Ohanaeze Ndigbo is a socio-cultural organization that embraces, not only the elders but also, the entire Igbo society, including men, women, and children. The name itself—"Ohanaeze" meaning "the ruler and the ruled"—reflects its inclusive approach. The organization seeks to unite the Igbo people across various demographics, ensuring that voices from all age groups and genders are heard and represented.

UNITED IGBO ELDERS COUNCIL WORLDWIDE: As indicated in its name, the United Igbo Elders Council is exclusively for elders within the Igbo community. This organization places a premium on the wisdom and experience of its senior members, irrespective of gender. Here, only individuals considered Elders - those who have attained the age of sixty - and have gained recognition in their communities, are eligible for membership. However, younger persons can be admitted as stakeholders  "...maka na nwata kwochaa aka..."

This focus on elders distinguishes the council from Ohanaeze Ndigbo, limiting participation to a specific demographic.

FOCUS AND OBJECTIVES

The primary objectives of Ohanaeze Ndigbo include promoting the socio-economic development of the Igbo people, advocating for their rights, and fostering unity among Igbos. The organization actively engages in cultural promotion, educational initiatives, and political advocacy. By bringing together a diverse membership, Ohanaeze Ndigbo aims to address the collective needs and aspirations of the entire Igbo community and ensures that all voices contribute to its mission.

UNITED IGBO ELDERS COUNCIL WORLDWIDE on the other hand, focuses primarily on the elders as a platform to carry out its objectives which include the preservation of Igbo culture and heritage, mentorship for younger generations, and providing a platform for elders to express their concerns and ideas. By concentrating on the elder demographic, this organization influences decision-making and cultural continuity from the vantage point of experience and wisdom.

LEADERSHIP STRUCTURE

Ohanaeze Ndigbo: The leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo is often characterized by a broader representation from all societal segments, including youth, women, and community leaders. The organization’s decision-making process is generally democratic and inclusive, allowing for diverse opinions and suggestions from its wide-ranging membership.

United Igbo Elders Council Worldwide: The leadership structure of the United Igbo Elders Council is typically hierarchical, with a focus on elder representatives who hold significant authority due to their age and experience. This structure emphasizes respect for tradition and seniority, guiding the council's operations and decisions.

APPROACH TO ADVOCACY

Ohanaeze Ndigbo: Advocacy in Ohanaeze Ndigbo tends to be multifaceted, addressing economic, political, social, and cultural issues. It seeks collaboration across different sectors of society to achieve community-wide goals.

United Igbo Elders Council Worldwide: The advocacy efforts of the United Igbo Elders Council is also multifaceted, addressing economic, political, social, and cultural issues as they affect the Igbo man both at home and in the Diaspora. It seeks collaboration across different sectors of society to achieve community-wide goals. 

CONCLUSION:

In summary, while both Ohanaeze Ndigbo and the United Igbo Elders Council Worldwide share the overarching goal of advancing the interests of the Igbo community, they do so through different lenses. Ohanaeze is characterized by its inclusive approach, embracing all demographics within the Igbo society. In contrast, the United Igbo Elders Council focuses solely on the elder population, drawing upon their wisdom and experience to shape the future of the Igbo people.

Understanding these distinctions allows for better appreciation of the roles these organizations play in the vibrant Igbo community.


Pastor Michael Obierika is the Secretary, Board of Trustees of United Igbo Elders Council Worldwide (UNIEC).

You can reach him on: +234 803 490 9121;

Email: obimicah@gmail.com




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