Imo community celebrates monarch’s development strides at anniversary

The people of Okwudor in Njaba Local Government Area of Imo State recently came together in a colourful display of culture, tradition and unity to celebrate the first coronation anniversary of their traditional ruler, Obi of Okwudor, His Royal Highness, Eze Ben Onuora.

The event, held at the new Obi Durugbo Palace, attracted an impressive gathering of traditional rulers, government officials, business leaders and professionals from within and outside the state.

It provided an opportunity for residents, community leaders and guests to reflect on the monarch’s first year on the throne and assess the impact of his leadership on the community.

The celebration drew men and women from all walks of life, many of whom took turns to commend the Obi of Okwudor for his leadership style and contributions to the growth and development of the community.

The event assumed a carnival-like atmosphere as guests enjoyed the warm hospitality of Ndi Okwudor while savouring the community’s famous roasted cashew nuts.

The celebration was further enlivened by performances from cultural groups and masquerades that showcased the rich heritage of the people.

One of the highlights of the anniversary was the conferment of chieftaincy titles on distinguished sons and daughters of Okwudor, as well as friends of the community who have made significant contributions to its development.

Among the recipients was Prof Bernard Jiburum of Imo State University, who expressed gratitude for being conferred with the title of Ikenga I of Okwudor.

Jiburum, a Professor of Surgery and Anatomy and the current President of the International College of Surgeons, Nigeria Section, was also the pioneer Provost of the College of Medicine, Imo State University, Owerri.

Another prominent Nigerian honoured at the event was Prof Fidelis Oditah, SAN, KC, who was conferred with the title of Omelora I of Okwudor.

An internationally renowned legal scholar, Oditah lectured for many years on Commercial Law and Insolvency at Oxford University, England, before attaining remarkable success in private legal practice.

His achievements earned him recognition as both a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and a King’s Counsel in the United Kingdom.

Several dignitaries who spoke during the anniversary said the traditional ruler had pursued a leadership style that combines traditional authority with practical development initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of the people.

One of the speakers, Princess Ngozi Duru, commended the monarch for handling the ancestral throne with dignity.

She said, “You have balanced the ancient staff of our forefathers with the scales of justice and the wisdom of a barrister. Your first year has proven that when tradition meets intellect, the people prosper.

“Your leadership reflects wisdom, humility and a steadfast commitment to the peace and progress of our people.”

Also speaking, Ichie Akukwesiri I of Okwudor, Chief Chidi Nwaka, commended the traditional ruler for the achievements recorded during his first year on the throne.

“We commend your exemplary leadership, wisdom and unswerving commitment to the growth and unity of Okwudor. May your reign continue to usher in peace, progress and enduring prosperity for our people. Congratulations,” he said.

Nwaka noted that rather than embark on expensive new construction projects, Eze Onuora adopted what many described as a pragmatic approach to development by rehabilitating existing infrastructure and restoring abandoned community assets.

According to him, working alongside the Okwudor Peoples Assembly and the Obi of Okwudor-in-Council, the monarch directed resources generated from the highly successful Okwudor Day celebration of December 31, 2025, towards projects with immediate impact on residents.

“One of his earliest interventions focused on road accessibility, with more than 10 roads across the community graded and reopened, easing movement for residents, traders, farmers and transport operators.

“For a predominantly agrarian community, improved road access has become particularly significant, enabling farmers to transport produce more efficiently and improving connectivity between different parts of the town and neighbouring communities.

“His administration also turned its attention to water supply, ensuring residents have access to clean and potable water while reducing the risk of water-borne disease outbreaks.

“The decision to restore existing facilities rather than embark on new projects has been widely praised as a cost-effective approach that maximises limited resources while delivering immediate benefits,” he said.

The Udu Ako Mmiri I of Okwudor, Chief Raphael Oguike, said, “Your reign, within this short period, has reflected wisdom, peace and purposeful leadership.”

For one of the community leaders, Barr. Emma Okah, the people of Okwudor are fortunate to have Eze Onuora as their monarch.

“Since knowing you 36 years ago in Lagos, you have remained consistent, dependable, caring and humane. The great people of Okwudor are blessed to have you as their king at this time.

“May Okwudor and her people continue to flourish under your leadership, and may the ancestors guide and strengthen you as you serve your people and protect their heritage to the glory of His Holy Name,” he prayed.

An indigene of Okwudor, Mr Eddie Efekoha, while eulogising the traditional ruler, said, “Your reign over the past year reflects the qualities many have long associated with you, integrity, sound judgment and a genuine commitment to unity and development.

“Indeed, the energy you exude has been both awesome and infectious. These values have strengthened the bond within your community and reinforced the respect your throne commands.”

Another indigene, Mr Bertram Odazie, said the milestone marked a year of exemplary leadership, wisdom and dedication to the prosperity and well-being of the people of Okwudor Ebenasato and Njaba Local Government Area at large.

“Since your coronation, your reign has made a profound impact on our community. Your Highness has demonstrated excellent vision and fatherly guidance, strengthening the bond among our people and upholding the rich traditions and values of our land,” he said.

The Chairman of the Obi of Okwudor-in-Council, Chief Anthony Uzonwune, also praised the monarch’s performance.

He said, “Within this short period, Your Majesty’s reign has been marked by wisdom, unity and progressive leadership, fostering peace and development in the kingdom. We pray that your reign continues to flourish with greater achievements, long life and enduring prosperity for the people of Okwudor.”

While welcoming dignitaries and thanking indigenes for making the anniversary a success, the monarch highlighted several projects undertaken during his first year in office, describing them as part of a broader vision to create a more prosperous and united Okwudor.

He revealed that one of his major accomplishments was the rehabilitation of critical community infrastructure.

Eze Onuora also confirmed that while working closely with the Okwudor Peoples Assembly and the Obi of Okwudor-in-Council, resources generated from the highly successful Okwudor Day celebration held on December 31, 2025, were channelled into development projects that delivered immediate benefits to residents.

“As a result, more than 10 roads across the community have been graded and reopened, improving access for farmers, traders and residents. The intervention enhanced the movement of agricultural produce and strengthened connectivity within Okwudor and neighbouring communities,” he said.

The monarch added that he prioritised the restoration of water facilities, overseeing the rehabilitation of several boreholes that had remained non-functional for years.

He also highlighted his investment in youth development through the Okwudor Free Apprenticeship Scheme, launched shortly after his coronation.

“The initiative currently supports more than 45 young men and women receiving vocational training in plumbing, electrical installation, masonry, catering, welding, upholstery making, hairdressing and other technical skills.

“The programme relies on volunteer trainers recruited through engagement with skilled artisans and professionals. It has created opportunities for young people who might otherwise be unable to afford vocational education.

“Reforms aimed at strengthening peace and social harmony within the community were also initiated. Traditional arbitration panels made up of respected chiefs, Ndi Nze and Ichie titleholders were established to handle communal disputes.

“The initiative has provided residents with accessible and culturally relevant mechanisms for resolving land disputes, family disagreements and other conflicts, helping to promote peace and unity across the community,” the traditional ruler said.

He said agriculture also featured prominently in his development agenda, noting that during the past year, hundreds of improved palm seedlings were planted at the Okwudor Health Centre and public primary schools as part of efforts to promote environmental sustainability and create long-term economic opportunities.

On plans for the coming years, Eze Onuora announced the distribution of 1,000 improved palm seedlings free of charge to widows, youths, teachers, low-income residents and individuals who have distinguished themselves through service to the community.