After more than a decade without a traditional ruler, the Obeagu community in Ishielu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State has crowned a new monarch, bringing an end to years of leadership vacuum following the death of the late Eze James Ominyi.
Chief Ephraim Okwor was formally installed as the traditional ruler during a colourful ceremony held on Saturday at Union Comprehensive Secondary School field in Obeagu. The event, marked by jubilant celebrations and rich cultural displays, signalled a new chapter for the community, which had long awaited a widely accepted leader to restore full traditional authority.
Representing the State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Mr Uchenna Igwe, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Chieftaincy Matters, Mr Chukwuma Ujebe, who supervised the selection and coronation process, underscored the critical role of traditional institutions in sustaining peace and supporting grassroots governance.
He urged the new monarch to lead with wisdom, fairness and a strong sense of duty, noting that the prolonged absence of a traditional ruler had made the occasion particularly significant for the people of Obeagu.
In his acceptance speech, Ezeogo Ephraim Okwor, now known as Chibudo I of Obeagu Mgbalekeogu Autonomous Community, expressed appreciation to the people for the confidence reposed in him. He pledged to prioritise unity, peace and sustainable development.
“This is a call to service. After many years without a traditional ruler, I will work with all stakeholders to ensure peace, unity and progress in Obeagu,” he said.
Community stakeholders, including Deacon Nwachukwu Johnson, Ishielu North Development Centre Coordinator Barr Emeka Odanwu, Rev. Fr Hilary Mbah, Barr Mrs Adola Awam, women leader Mrs Justina Ekpe, and youth leader Aguigbo Ifeanyichukwu, described the coronation as a turning point. They expressed confidence that the new monarch’s reign would usher in stability, accelerated development and renewed cultural pride after years of leadership gap.
They also noted that the emergence of a recognised traditional ruler would strengthen local dispute resolution mechanisms and enhance collaboration with government authorities for the overall development of the community.
The President of the Obeagu Town Union, Mr Jeremiah Orinya, appealed to the government to provide more essential social amenities and improve security of lives and property in the area.
The ceremony featured traditional rites, musical performances, cultural dances, masquerade displays and goodwill messages from neighbouring communities, showcasing the rich heritage of the people.
Before his coronation, Ezeogo Ephraim Okwor was a staff member of Ebonyi State University. He also holds a Diploma in Salesmanship from the National School of Salesmanship and has received several accolades both within and outside Nigeria.
