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Okwesilieze Women’s Club Prevails in Contentious Civil Lawsuit Against Defecting Members
“Defendants shall immediately cease to use the name “Okwesilieze”; desist from using Plaintiff’s theme songs and greetings “Kwesi”; pay to Plaintiff Organization the sum of $37,000.00, and return specified items in their possession.”
A prolonged civil lawsuit between the Okwesilieze Women’s Club of Nigeria and a rival group formed by defecting group members “De Okwesilieze International Women’s Club” has ended in favor of the founding group, court documents show. In a final verdict that might affect similar cases still pending among various groups in the Houston’s Nigerian Community, the defecting group, De Okwesilieze, and their listed agents avoided what would have been a humiliating verdict and succumbed to mediation and settlement negotiations that completely appeased the plaintiff’s demands.
As part of the settlement, the Defendants and their representatives, namely: Hope W Aobikeze, Emiliana ; Chukwu, Rose Ekeke; Genevieve Onyirioha, Oluchi; Duruji, Philomena Chinwe; Ekwealor, Veronica; Onwukamuche, Nkechi Eko; Ijeoma Opara, and Veronica Onunze, shall immediately;
- cease to use the name “Okwesilieze” as any part of their organization’s name.
- shall immediately cease to use the Plaintiffs team songs and greetings “Kwesi” as part of their Organization songs or greetings.
- shall return the Plaintiff organization items in the procession of the defendants, to wit (official documents and items transferred by former outgoing president, Emilana Chukwu to former in-coming President, Dr. Genevieve Onyirioha).
- shall return the items given to Dr. Genevieve Onyirioha by Dr. Gracie Chukwu (These items are attached to the agreement.
- shall pay to Plaintiff Organization the sum of $37,000.00. The payment shall be paid within a 5-year period, paid quarterly for a minimum payment of $1850.00 each quarter. The first payment is due June 1, 2022, and continues each quarter until paid in full.
The Okwesilieze Women’s Club of Nigeria was founded in 1976 in Enugu, Nigeria with the core mission to promote family values, harness wellness, economics, and community activities, and help the less fortunate women in the society overcome life challenges. However, an internal squabble at the Branch in Houston created a division, causing some members to defect and register the conflicting group “De Okwesilieze International Women’s Club” on February 28, 2020.
The group’s Founder and Leader Dr/Mrs. Gracie Gboliwe Chukwu who instituted the legal action against the defecting members asserted two general claims. First, she affirmed various trademark claims, alleging that the mark Okwesilieze Women’s Club of Nigeria International’s trade name was trespassed upon by the Defendants’ incorporation and use of the name “De Okwesilieze International Women’s Club.” Second, Dr. Chukwu alleged that Defendants committed conversion by taking the funds from Okwesilieze Women’s Club of Nigeria International as described above.
The case litigated at the United States District Court might set the precedent for very similar cases involving other organizations of Nigerian descent. For instance, according to court papers, Defendants Hope Waobikeze, Emiliana Chukwu, and Rose Ekeke, in the course of the squabble, went to the bank and withdrew $14,400.00 from the OWCNI savings account and $58,000.00 from the OWCNI checking account. After withdrawing the funds, these three Defendants divided the money between the remaining Defendants, who all accepted and converted the funds and called it a “refund” of the OWCNI membership dues —a practice very conversant in many organizations of Nigerian descent.
Today, I write with great joy and admiration to wish you, Prof. Chris Chinwe Ulasi, a delighted 70th birthday. It is a glorious milestone, and my family and I are honored to join friends and colleagues in celebrating this remarkable occasion with you here in Cancun, Mexico.
Since I first met you in 2005 at Texas Southern University (TSU), Houston, Texas, you have consistently demonstrated that you are a true Nwannedinamba—a brother from Anambra State, Nigeria. As both a colleague and a friend, you have been a source of inspiration to all who have crossed your path.
Shortly after I joined TSU, a colleague informed me that I had a “brother” in the School of Communications. That brother was you. Not long afterward, we co-presented a training seminar for Akwa Ibom legislators, accompanied by their then-Governor, Akpabio, who now serves as Senate President of Nigeria. I vividly recall how your training manual immediately impressed me with its depth and clarity. From that moment, we became not only colleagues and friends but brothers in every sense of the word.
You are a bona fide poet whose work resonates deeply with those privileged to read it. Your poems, carefully crafted and rich in meaning, often reflect the pressing issues of the time. I read them more than once to fully grasp their layered insights. They remind me of my younger days, poring over Dele Giwa’s columns in The Concord newspaper, pen and paper in hand, collecting new vocabulary. Thankfully, with the aid of modern technology, deciphering your poetic expressions has become more accessible, though no less profound.
Beyond your academic scholarship, you are a respected public intellectual. Through your efforts and those of your colleagues, you revived the West African Pilot News as co-publisher and executive editor, initially founded by Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe. I still recall when you invited me to join the editorial board and contribute op-eds. Initially hesitant—declaring myself a criminologist, not a journalist—you quickly convinced me that the goal was to elevate Ndigbo voices. You were right: too often, the positive narratives of Ndigbo are overlooked. Since then, the Pilot has become a vital platform for scholars and writers across disciplines to express optimistic, forward-looking visions of Nigeria and Africa. This is a tremendous legacy—one that you and your team should be proud of.
Your academic and professional accomplishments speak for themselves. You are a Professor of Radio, Television, and Film, the Dean of the School of Communication, and Chair of the Department of Radio, Television, and Film at TSU. With over three decades of teaching, research, and creative work—and more than 25 years of leadership experience—you have distinguished yourself as an educator, scholar, administrator, and cultural leader. Beyond the classroom and administrative offices, you are a dynamic force in the world of media and literature. A talented screenwriter, producer, director, and poet, you have used your voice and platforms to shape narratives and inspire change. You have been a journal and book editor of the Journal of Nigerian Affairs, formerly COMPO REVIEW. Since 2000, you have proudly served as University Marshal at TSU—another testament to your enduring leadership and commitment.
Your leadership in the Houston community is equally outstanding. The more than 200 people who traveled to Cancun to celebrate you are a testament to your enduring impact. As Chairman of the People’s Club of Nigeria International, Sugarland chapter, your leadership has been exemplary. At Our Savior Anglican Church (OSAC), you oversee communications and have trained younger members to manage the system with excellence, even in your absence. You also serve as Dean of the Diocesan Conference, a role appointed by the Bishop, and are a valued member of OSAC’s governing board. Your dedication has contributed significantly to the growth and unity of the church.
Moreover, in the broader community, you once served as Chairman of the Ndi-Ichie Igbo Cultural Club and now lead its annual cultural celebrations in Houston. These events showcase the richness of Igbo heritage—culinary delights, traditional dances, language, and youth involvement—with elegance and pride.
Nwannedinamba, I could fill many more pages with your accomplishments, but allow me to share a personal story. When I lost my beloved brother, Prof. Ebere Onwudiwe (may his soul rest in peace), you traveled all the way from Nnewi to Isunjaba, Imo State, accompanied by a musical group and heartfelt gifts, including Nkwu Elu. I shared that special palm wine only with members of the Onwudiwe family. Your presence in our family compound remains unforgettable. While we danced to the Ogene music you brought, you engaged in deep dialogue with my traditional ruler about the origins of Isu. My Eze later insisted that you visit the palace, where he intended to present you with archival records on Isu’s history. One day, we will fulfill that promise.
Prof. Ulasi, you are not only a distinguished colleague and scholar but also a cherished friend. We are deeply grateful for your friendship and all you have done for us and the broader community. We also thank your wonderful wife for her unwavering support, love, and understanding.
As we mark this milestone with you, we are reminded that true greatness lies not just in titles held or accolades received, but in the lives touched, the values modeled, and the legacy quietly built each day. You exemplify this kind of greatness. May your 70th year be a continuation of your influence, your light, and your unwavering commitment to building a better, more just, and culturally vibrant world.
As you celebrate your 70th birthday, we wish you continued health, joy, and fulfillment. May the years ahead bring even greater blessings. Thank you for being the exceptional person you are, Nwannedinamba.
With warmest regards,
Prof. I. D. Onwudiwe
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■ Dr. Onwudiwe, a Professor of Criminology at Texas Southern University, is on the EDITORIAL BOARD of the WAP
Community members are invited this Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Alief Community Center in Houston, Texas, for an impactful workshop aimed at supporting African and Black immigrant communities on their journey to naturalization and citizenship. This empowering event will offer crucial guidance on the naturalization process, legal rights, and available resources. The event starts at 2.00 pm.
Immigration service providers will be present to evaluate eligibility for fee waivers and assist with naturalization applications. Participants in need of support must register and complete the legal pre-screening form.
This workshop presents an opportunity for attendees to connect with fellow community leaders and access free legal resources on Know Your Rights, naturalization, and citizenship. Additionally, a thought-provoking panel discussion on Black Immigrant Voices on Rights & Belonging will be held, moderated by Edidiong Obot. Community leaders and advocates will share personal stories, obstacles, and triumphs in their efforts to secure their rights and foster a sense of belonging.
While this event is free, registration is mandatory. Those unable to attend in person can still explore further resources and discover upcoming naturalization and citizenship events in Houston by visiting NaturalizeNowHouston. Event registration link: >>>>
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