Marking a historic milestone, Thursday, 19th December 2024, will forever be etched in the annals of the Ezere community as a day of joy and celebration. The vibrant festivities accompanying the introduction of the New Eze-elect transformed the event into a true funfair, marked by music, dancing, and a palpable sense of unity and pride among the people.
It was a profound honour to witness the distinguished introduction of the Eze-elect, Hon. Chief Michael Chijioke Ndukwe, to the Local Government Council. This momentous occasion was a masterclass in cultural elegance, unity, and organizational precision, leaving an indelible mark on all in attendance. Notably, the two revered traditional rulers present, His Royal Highness Eze Peter Ginikanwa Eke (Inyim Enachi I of Ohonja Ovim) and His Royal Highness Eze Agha Nkere Kanu (Okum 1 of Ahaba Imenyi), officially handed the Eze-elect over to the Local Government Chairman, Hon. Chinedu Ekeke, symbolizing the unity and continuity of leadership within the community.
The Isiala Ezere Autonomous Community is a beautiful habitation in the East-southern part of Isuikwuato, with perimeters of Otampa, Amaba, Ovim, and Umuakwua, created in the year 2000 from the Ezere Ancient Kingdom under the Imenyi Ancient Kingdom. The community has a rich history of quality leadership. The first traditional ruler of the community, His Royal Highness Eze Engr. Alfred Ebubedike Anyim (late) was elected in 2000 and was given the staff of office in 2001. He was crowned as the Ononenyi I and ruled for 13 years until his sudden death in 2014. He was laid to rest on September 13, 2014, and since then, the community has been without a traditional ruler for 10 years. This long period without a traditional ruler was finally brought to an end with the election of Hon. Chief Michael Chijioke Ndukwe as the new Eze-elect.
Hon. Chief Michael Ndukwe, after attending higher institutions, worked as an auxiliary teacher and an assistant technical engineer on training with the Nigeria Broadcasting Commission Sokoto. He rose to the position of senior technical engineer, from where he retired. After retirement, he ventured into the transportation business and finally settled into commercial farming and animal husbandry. He was once a supervisory councillor on health in Isuikwuato LGA and is a Knight in the Anglican Church.
Throughout this time, the Isiala Ezere community has remained a model of peace and unity, and the election of the new traditional ruler went smoothly, reflecting the harmony among the people of Isiala Ezere. Some of the sons and daughters of the community, who reside abroad, also travelled back home to witness and honour the momentous occasion, further strengthening the bond of the community.
During the presentation of the Eze-elect, Chukwuma Omesie, one of the Eze-elect Committee members, introduced the Eze-elect entourage and also gave a brief history of his community, which further added depth to the cultural significance of the event.
The presence of our esteemed dignitaries such as Hon. Chinedu Ekeke, Chairman of Isuikwuato LGA; Barrister Eugene Emenike, Secretary of Isuikwuato LGA; His Royal Highness Eze Peter Ginikanwa Eke (Inyim Enachi I of Ohonja Ovim); His Royal Highness Eze Agha Nkere Kanu (Okum 1 of Ahaba Imenyi, Nze Emenike Ohara, Imperial Nze Joseph Nwabuikwu, Onowu Ikechukwu Silas, (the head of Ndi Obi in Council), and other Obi members. Also present were Mrs Ihuoma Okorie, women leader, Mr Chinyere Onyeabor (President of General Home Branch), Sir Obiete Onyeabor(Secretary General of Isiala-Ezere Development Union), Hon Chibuike Destiny Adiele (counsellor Ezere ward 2 and also Youth chairman) and many others.
The Chairman, Hon. Chinedu Ekeke warmly received the new Eze-elect. In his speech, he advised him to maintain peace, love, equity, and justice in his leadership. He emphasized the importance of collaboration in the development of Abia State, urging everyone to contribute to its growth and prosperity. He also stated that many requirements for this occasion were waived to encourage the community, as this would be the culture that would evolve under his leadership as Mayor of Isuikwuato LGA, ensuring a prosperous future for the communities and in line with the quality and exemplary leadership of His Excellency Dr Alex Otti, the governor of Abia State
The poise of Hon. Chief Michael Chijioke Ndukwe and his clear and thoughtful expression of common goals revealed his readiness to guide Isiala Ezere to a prosperous future. After receiving the staff of office and his coronation, he will be addressed as His Royal Majesty Eze Michael Chijioke Ndukwe (Ononenyi II of Isiala-Ezere Autonomous Community), heralding a new chapter of visionary leadership. The people of Isiala-Ezere received him home after the formal presentation to the Local Government Council with a 12-cannon gun salute and celebration galore.
The new Eze-elect also took a moment to thank all who had come to celebrate with him, wishing them well in their endeavours and safe journeys to their respective destinations.
Also, in his closing speech, the President General of Isiala Ezere’s home Branch, Mr. Chinyere Onyeabor, who also represented the President General of the home and abroad development union, said, “I commend all who orchestrated this landmark event with finesse. The success of this occasion reflects not only the organizational prowess of the community but also its collective commitment to progress and unity. As he prepares to assume the mantle of leadership, I am convinced that his vision, wisdom, and dedication will bring transformative development to Isiala Ezere and serve as an inspiration to neighbouring communities.”
May his tenure be remembered as one of the remarkable achievements, strengthened bonds, and a flourishing legacy for generations to come.
Signed
Mr. Chuks Omesie
For the Eze-elect Committee Members
Isiala-Ezere Autonomous Community
Isuikwuato LGA
