Gov Obi accepts chieftaincy title at last – Crowned Okwute Ndigbo

Posted by The Leader News Online on Saturday, March 22, 2014 · Leave a Comment

The out-gone Anambra State Governor, Mr. Peter Obi finally bowed to pressure and accepted a chieftaincy title as the Okwute of Igbo land in Awka amidst pomp and pageantry.

The conferment took place on Saturday, March 15, two days before Mr. Obi handed over to Mr. Obiano.

The traditional ruler of Onitsha Kingdom, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe decorated him assisted by other prominent monarchs in Anambra like Igwe K.O. Irizu of Nnewi, Igwe P.C. Ezenwa of Oba and Igwe Onwuneme of Ikenga.

Obi Achebe in a remark said the traditional rulers in the South-east unanimously agreed to bestow on Obi the prestigious title of Okwute (the rock) of Igbo land in recognition of his numerous developmental strides in Anambra State and his prominent leadership roles in the entire Igbo land.

He described the honour done to Obi as well deserved and also announced that the wife of the governor, Mrs. Margaret Obi has been decorated too with the title of Ona Chinyelu Diya (special ornament given to his husband by God).

Igwe Achebe also noted that Obi’s eight years in office had been eventful and said he is looking up to him to assume a higher responsibility in the presidency someday.

The Chairman of the Planning Committee and former governorship aspirant in Anambra State, Prince Chinedu Idigo said that it was a thing of joy that Obi had finally accepted to be made a chief now that he was quitting the stage as a governor. He described such character as great sign of humility and said Obi was the new Igbo political leader.

In a brief acceptance speech, Chief Peter Obi expressed appreciation to all and called for more dedication and commitment from all citizens towards making the Igbo nation and the country a better place for all.

The colorful ceremony, which took place at Ekwueme Square, Awka was witnessed by traditional rulers like Attah of Igala, the Chairman, South-east Council of Traditional Rulers, Eze Cletus Ilomuanya, Anambra Governor elect, Chief Willie Obiano, his deputy, Dr. Nkem Okeke, Chief Victor Umeh among others.