By Magnus Chukwudi
The Dikenafai Ancient Kingdom of Ideato South Local Government Area LGA, Imo State, recently celebrated the first public outing and installation of its new traditional ruler, His Royal Highness, Eze Ezekiel Uchenna Odoemena, who holds the title of Eze Ebubedike II of Dikenafai.
The event, which took place at Ezumezu Dikeoshie, served as the Eze’s official presentation, as the confirmed traditional ruler. It was also an occasion to recognise deserving members of the community with prestigious chieftaincy titles in appreciation of outstanding contributions to the growth, peace, and development of Dikenafai.
Eze Ezekiel Odoemena bestowed the community’s highest chieftaincy titles on eligible sons, who have contributed significantly to the Dikenafai kingdom.
Among those honoured was Chief Andrew Uzoma Obih, Udokaku I of Dikenafai, whose chieftaincy title was conferred in recognition of his exceptional commitment to peace, unity, and philanthropy.
Chief Obih is widely known as a peace advocate, a gentleman of exemplary character, and a strong promoter of unity within the community.
The cultural ambassador, is the Director of Culture, Igbo Community Association of Southern Carolina, United States of America, as well as the Director of Culture, Dikeoshie Cultural Movement of Dikenafai.
His benevolent nature has touched the lives of many, as numerous members of the community have benefited from his generosity and humanitarian gestures.
Fondly described as the man who believes that blessings should be shared, Chief Obih is known for keeping his home open to all, whenever he is in town, attending to people’s needs one after the other.
His unwavering support for community initiatives earned him a key role as both a member and patron of the Dikeoshie Planning Committee, where he consistently contributed financially and materially, whenever the need arose. Such selfless services culminated in his well-deserved conferment as ‘Udokaku I’ of Dikenafai. His noble character is also reflected in his family life, as he is blessed with successful children and a supportive wife, Lolo Chibuzor Obih.
Another illustrious son of Dikenafai honoured at the event was Chief Timothy Duruiheoma, who was conferred with the chieftaincy title of ‘Akadike I’ of Dikenafai.
His elevation is a testament to his numerous contributions and positive impact on the lives of many within the community.
Speaking with the press, Chief Duruiheoma expressed his gratitude and reaffirmed his commitment to doing even more for the progress and wellbeing of Dikenafai.
Also recognised was a respected friend and in-law of the community, Alhaji Bukar Mohammad Umar, who was conferred with the chieftaincy title of ‘Nwadinamba I’ of Dikenafai Ancient Kingdom.
The honour was bestowed in recognition of his cordial relationship with the people of Dikenafai and his meaningful contributions as a valued in-law.
In his remarks, he spoke warmly about his bond with the community and pledged continued support.
He noted that the chieftaincy title stands as a testament to the strength of tradition, the value of service, and the celebration of excellence within the community, adding that the honours reinforce the sacred bond between leadership, service, and tradition.
Adding his voice to the celebrations was Dr Bede Chukwudi Duru, another distinguished son of Dikenafai, who spoke glowingly about the chieftaincy conferment of his brother and the emergence of the new Eze, describing the occasion as a significant milestone in the history of the community.
He affirmed that the awardees were honoured for their unwavering dedication to progress, integrity, and community upliftment.
“The chieftaincy title is not only a personal honour but also a collective celebration of merit, hard work, and the timeless values upheld by the Dikenafai people.”
Dr Duru thanked the Dikenafai Dikeoshie Cultural Movement for supporting the traditional institution in the development of the ancient kingdom.
The event marked a new chapter for Dikenafai Ancient Kingdom, celebrating leadership, unity, cultural heritage, and selfless service to humanity.
The event attracted traditional rulers, community leaders, political stakeholders, captains of industry, friends, well-wishers, and sons and daughters of Dikenafai from far and near, all converging to bear witness to the historic occasion. It proved to be a colourful gathering, rich in culture, unity, and communal pride.
