…MONARCH REELS OUT PLANS FOR HIS PEOPLE

…AS OBOWO COUNCIL BOSS HON. BARR. OBIOMA EHIRIM LAUDS GOVERNOR UZODIMMA FOR FOSTERING COMMUNITY STABILITY; TASKS COMMUNITY ON NEED FOR PEACE, UNITY

By Prince Uwalaka Chimaroke
28- OCT- 2025

The 24th of October 2025 was a remarkable day in Umuagu Autonomous Community, Okenalogho Electoral Ward of Obowo Local Government Area as His Royal Highness, Eze Dr. Sir Anthony Amobi Okeke (Agu II of Umuagu), was officially inducted into the Obowo Traditional Rulers’ Council, following the earlier presentation of his Staff of Office and Certificate of Recognition by the Executive Governor of Imo State, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma.

The colourful induction ceremony, held at the royal palace of the monarch, was conducted under the supervision of the Chairman of the Obowo Traditional Rulers’ Council, HRM Eze Patrick Ngozi Uwalaka, alongside other royal fathers, dignitaries, and well-wishers who turned out in large numbers to honour the newly inducted king.

In his address, the President General of Umuagu Autonomous Community, Chief Isaac Onukube, described the day as a remarkable feat in the community’s history. He appreciated the Executive Governor, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, for his approval and presentation of the Staff of Office to the traditional ruler on March 22, 2025, a decision that, according to him, restored governance and stability in the community. Chief Onukube further expressed gratitude to the Executive Chairman of Obowo LGA, Hon. Barr. Obioma Johnson Ehirim, for honouring the invitation and gracing the occasion despite his busy schedule.

He explained that the induction served as a prelude to the grand coronation ceremony scheduled for Tuesday, December 30, 2025, when His Royal Highness would be formally crowned in a full traditional rite.

Chief Onukube noted that the impressive turnout, the presence of the Obowo Traditional Rulers’ Council members, and the rich cultural displays were a testament to the wide acceptance of the monarch both within and beyond Umuagu. He described the event as a resounding success and reaffirmed the community’s loyalty and commitment to supporting the leadership of the local government.

Delivering his address, His Royal Highness Eze Dr. Sir Anthony Amobi Okeke (Agu II of Umuagu Autonomous Community) expressed deep gratitude to God, the Governor, and the people of Umuagu for their unflinching support. He recalled how Governor Uzodimma, officially conferred on him the Certificate of Recognition and Staff of Office earlier in the year, restoring the community’s traditional leadership after the demise of their former Eze.

Eze Dr. Sir Okeke noted that the day’s induction marked a fulfillment of the customs and laws of Obowo, solidifying his place among the revered traditional rulers of the local government. He appreciated the presence of the Expo Union Cultural Troupe, whose thrilling performances enlivened the occasion, and thanked his subjects for their loyalty and unity.

Speaking on his vision for the community, the monarch outlined a comprehensive plan for development and empowerment. He revealed that, over the past decade, he has personally financed youth empowerment programs, security initiatives, school rehabilitation projects, and educational development efforts within Umuagu. He announced plans to introduce digital literacy programs in local schools, equipping Primary school pupils with laptops and trained IT tutors to prepare them for the modern world.

The royal father also pledged to continue his periodic free medical outreach, which he has sustained for over 15 years, offering free screenings, treatments, and healthcare services to residents. As a medical doctor with over 40 years of practice, Eze Dr. Sir Okeke emphasized that health remains central to his vision for community advancement, describing it as the foundation for sustainable development.

He appealed to the government and development partners to assist the community in the rehabilitation of the Aham Bridge Project, a critical infrastructure initially constructed through communal efforts over 40 years ago. The monarch acknowledged the steady support and visits from Hon. Barr. Obioma Ehirim, whom he praised for his people-oriented leadership and visible development projects across Obowo.

Eze Dr. Sir Okeke further reaffirmed his commitment to addressing youth restiveness, cultism, and social vices through sustained empowerment and skill-acquisition programs. He expressed optimism that, within the next five years, Umuagu would experience a remarkable transformation marked by peace, productivity, and prosperity.

In conclusion, the royal father thanked the Obowo Traditional Rulers’ Council for warmly receiving him into their fold and pledged to contribute meaningfully to the Council’s collective efforts in fostering peace and progress across the local government. He extended heartfelt appreciation to Governor Uzodimma for his trust, leadership, and unwavering support for traditional institutions in Imo State.

Speaking on the development, the Executive Chairman of Obowo Local Government Area, Hon. Barr. Obioma Johnson Ehirim, congratulated the new traditional ruler and commended Governor Uzodimma for his continuous efforts in ensuring stability and harmony across autonomous communities in the state. He noted that the presentation of Staff of Office to duly recognized royal fathers by the Governor reflects the government’s respect for traditional institutions and their indispensable role in grassroots administration.

Hon. Ehirim further emphasized the need for peace, unity, and cooperation among members of the Umuagu community, urging them to rally behind their new monarch to achieve sustainable growth and communal progress. He described Eze Dr. Sir Okeke as a man of wisdom and compassion whose leadership will further strengthen the bond between the government and the people.

The induction ceremony was attended by traditional rulers, political leaders, community representatives, youth organizations, and cultural groups. It was a grand display of unity and pride for the people of Umuagu Autonomous Community — a day that symbolized continuity, stability, and renewed hope for the future.

Prince Uwalaka Chimaroke
Chief Press Secretary
Obowo Local Government Area