By Magnus Chukwudi
The traditional ruler of Umuobom Ancient Kingdom in Ideato South Local Government Area of Imo State, His Royal Majesty, Eze Anayo Calistus Mbionwu, Odenigbo III, has lauded the Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, for the massive infrastructural development in the state.
He used the occasion of his first Ofala and Thanksgiving Ceremony in Umuobom Kingdom to advocate for good governance and support for the administration of the Imo State Governor, Senator Uzodinma.
Eze Mbionwu, who had just received his staff of office, praised Governor Uzodinma for his administration’s significant infrastructure development, particularly the extensive road construction across the state. He expressed satisfaction with the governor’s performance, highlighting the positive impact of the projects on rural communities.
The monarch assured that the Umuobom community under his leadership would work closely with the government to maintain the pace of development, and that in appreciation of the Governor’s performance, his community would redouble its support and loyalty to the government.
The colourful Ofala and Thanksgiving Ceremony was remarkable and historic in the kingdom’s traditional and cultural life, especially as it celebrated Eze Mbionwu’s reception of an official staff of office from the Imo State Government.
Speaking to journalists during the event, His Royal Majesty, Eze Anayo Mbionwu, reflected on the legacy of his late father, highlighting the numerous achievements recorded during his reign. The monarch assured the people of Umuobom that he was committed to building on that legacy and doing even more to promote peace, development, and progress in the ancient kingdom.
The royal father expressed gratitude to God for his emergence and thanked his people for finding him worthy to continue where his father left off.
He promised not to betray the confidence reposed in him, adding that he would serve them selflessly with humility and the fear of God.
Eze Mbionwu applauded the Imo State Governor, whom he said was eager to transform Imo State. “He has accomplished numerous remarkable achievements in various parts of the state, and we are convinced that he has indeed come to change the narrative in the State. Given his current trajectory, we are confident he will make Imo State a source of pride for the nation.
“I call on my fellow traditional rulers and the entire people of Ideato Local Government Area to be law-abiding and support the present administration in the state. The Governor has performed very well in infrastructural development.
“My prayer is for God to imbue us with wisdom and strength to discharge our responsibilities credibly. I urge my people to join hands with me in moving the Umuobom community to greater heights.”
As part of the ceremony, some deserving sons of the community who had contributed immensely to the growth and advancement of Umuobom were honoured with chieftaincy titles.
Among those honoured was Chief Ikechukwu Onyekaonwu, who was conferred with the prestigious chieftaincy title “Ubazuruoke of Umuobom.” The title, which signifies that his wealth and generosity are for the benefit of the entire community, recognises his selfless service and contributions to the people.
Chief Ikechukwu Onyekaonwu, while speaking to the press, highlighted his past contributions to the community and expressed gratitude to the traditional ruler and the people of Umuobom for the honour. He also pledged to do even more to advance the kingdom’s development in line with the responsibilities of his new title.
The occasion attracted people from all walks of life, from the community and beyond, featuring the Umuobom Council of Chiefs, cabinet members, founding fathers of the community, and leaders of various groups within the kingdom.
Also in attendance were prominent political figures from Ideato South and Imo State at large. Among the dignitaries present was the distinguished honourable member representing Ideato North/Ideato South federal constitunency, Imo State, Hon. Ugochinyere Ikeagwuonu, popularly known as Ikenga.
