On Friday, the Traditional Ruler of the Ogugu Ntu-egbenese Ancient Kingdom, situated in Awgu Local Government Area of Enugu State, Igwe Aloysius Chidozie Ogbonna Jnr., officially received the staff of office as the community’s monarch.
The staff was presented to the igwe Ogbonna at a ceremony held at the Ogugu Central School Field in Amanabor, by Deacon Okey Ogbodo, the State Commissioner for Local Government, Rural Development, and Chieftaincy Matters, who represented the State Government.
He remarked that the presentation of the staff signifies the commencement of Igwe Aloysius Chidozie Ogbonna Jnr’s leadership era.
Deacon Ogbodo expressed confidence in Igwe Ogbonna, stating that he possesses the necessary qualities to advance Ogugu, citing his proven track record in community development initiatives.
He added, “With the support provided by the community so far since he emerged as the Igwe-elect, his leadership will bring development to the community.”
The Commissioner also urged the new traditional ruler to uphold the law and act in accordance with the principles that led to his appointment, emphasising that he is not only a leader but also an important representative of the State Government.
In his address, His Royal Highness Igwe Mmadụabuchi Nevobasi, Chairman of the Awgu Council of Traditional Rulers and the traditional ruler of Ezinesi Mmaku, congratulated Igwe Aloysius Chidozie Ogbonna, referring to him as a brother and childhood friend. He noted, “His emergence as the traditional ruler of the community wasn’t a surprise to me, as he has always been a man of the people and a community leader,” and expressed optimism that his reign would restore peace and foster significant development within the community.
Igwe Nevobasi also extended his gratitude to Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for his vision and commitment to rural development and the welfare of the people.
In his remarks, the new monarch Igwe Aloysius Chidozie Ogbonna thanked God for His mercy, kindness, and love. He pledged that his leadership would be dedicated to serving the community and humanity. He expressed his appreciation to Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for consistently prioritising the welfare of the people and called upon the over 32 communities in the Ntu-egbenese clan to unite in pursuit of sustainable development.
Earlier in the day, Igwe Aloysius Chidozie Ogbonna Jnr was taken to Nkwo-Ogugu, where he took the traditional oath of office as the second traditional ruler of the community and leader of the Ntu-egbenese clan.
The traditional oath was administered by High Chief George Okolie, the eldest man in the Umuokpara Ogbodu Ezioha Community, which is the oldest village within the Ntu-egbenese clan. Chief Okolie urged Igwe Ogbonna to lead with the fear of God and to promote the values of the Ntu-egbenese clan, before presenting the Ọfọ Ntu-egbenese to the new monarch.
Following the presentation, Chief Okolie further encouraged the new Igwe to view himself as a bridge between the ancestors and the present generation. He emphasised that leadership in Ntu-egbenese transcends titles and influence, relying heavily on sacrificial service, fairness, and a profound commitment to the collective interests of the people.
According to Chief Okolie, “This Ọfọ that I am giving to you on behalf of Ogugu and the entire Ntu-egbenese clan is not just a staff; it is the voice of our fathers. It demands that you must never lie, never oppress, and never forget that your power is for the service of the people, not for personal pride.”
