The Itsekiri Congress United Kingdom (ICUK), the umbrella body representing Itsekiri diaspora organisations in the United Kingdom, has reaffirmed its commitment to unity, cultural preservation and the development of the Iwere nation following the successful conduct of its 2026 Annual General Meeting (AGM) and the swearing-in of its new executive members in London.
The AGM, held on Saturday, October 10, 2026, marked a significant milestone in the organisation's activities, ushering in a new two-year administration for the 2026–2028 tenure. The gathering brought together members and representatives of affiliated organisations to deliberate on the affairs of the congress and strengthen its collective resolve to promote the interests, heritage and aspirations of the Itsekiri people in the United Kingdom and their ancestral homeland.
At the ceremony, Mr Sunny Okuku was sworn in as President, alongside Ms Vivienne Orieke as Vice President; Mrs Pat Boyo-Onisile, Secretary; Ms Doreen Omaghomi, Financial Secretary; Mr Mofe Orighoye, Publicity Secretary; and Mr Jolomi Tenumah, Assistant Secretary. Other members of the executive are Mrs Emily Atiene Rowayinor, Welfare Officer (Internal); Ms Eyituoyo Okonedo, Welfare Officer (External); Mrs Roli Clarke-Biu, Director of Research; Ms Edith Ogharaerumi, Chief Whip; and Barrister Mike Awala, Legal Adviser. The new administration also welcomes two new members to the executive team, bringing fresh energy and perspectives to the organisation's responsibilities.
In a statement following the AGM, the Publicity Secretary, Mr Mofe Orighoye, expressed appreciation to members, affiliated organisations and community stakeholders for their participation and continued support. He described the successful meeting and inauguration as an opportunity to strengthen the foundations of the congress and advance a shared vision of unity, inclusiveness, cultural pride and service to the Itsekiri nation.
Orighoye also commended the Electoral Committee for its dedication and transparent handling of the electoral process. The committee was chaired by Mr Esimaje Melle Onuwaje, with Evangelist Blessing Urowoli Olubanjo as Secretary and Mrs Toju Awani, Mr Alfred Akitikori and Mrs Sheila Noserime as members. He thanked them for their commitment to ensuring a smooth electoral exercise and for contributing to an orderly transition to the new executive administration.
The Publicity Secretary further emphasised that the new executive would build on the collective efforts of members and affiliated organisations to strengthen cooperation among Itsekiri groups in the United Kingdom, promote the preservation of Itsekiri culture and identity, and sustain meaningful connections with communities in the homeland. He noted that the success of the new administration would depend on collective participation, mutual respect and a common determination to advance the interests of the Iwere nation.
The congress concluded the gathering with a renewed call for unity and collective responsibility under its rallying message, “One Voice, One Accord!” As the new executive begins its two-year tenure, ICUK has reiterated its commitment to working with members and stakeholders towards a stronger, more united and forward-looking Itsekiri community, both in the United Kingdom and at home. The organisation also reaffirmed its enduring cultural allegiance with the traditional salutation: “Ogiame Suo!”