Eze Ferdinand Okoronkwo Nwujor of Onicha warns recipients of traditional chieftaincy titles to uphold virtues or risk losing the honour during his one-year anniversary celebration

The traditional ruler of Onicha Autonomous Community in Ebonyi State, Eze Ferdinand Okoronkwo Nwujor, has warned recipients of his chieftaincy titles to continue exemplifying the virtues that earned them the honours or face revocation.

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The monarch made the remarks during the grand finale of events marking his one-year anniversary on the throne, held at Onicha Central School in Onicha Local Government Area.

The well-attended ceremony celebrated his reign and saw the conferment of chieftaincy titles on individuals from within and outside the community.

Among those honoured were Senator Anthony Ani, representative of Ebonyi South Senatorial District, who received the title Chinyelugo I of Onicha-Igboeze; Hon. Nkemkanma Kama, representative of Ohaozara, Onicha, and Ivo Federal Constituency; Ebonyi State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Chief Uchenna Igwe; and Chief Ogbonnaya Okorie, Commissioner for Inter-Party Affairs.

Other recipients included former Onicha LGA Chairmen Chief Chidiebere Uzo and Chief Felix Igboke, as well as community leaders and public servants.

In his address, Eze Nwujor emphasised that the titles were awarded for demonstrated good deeds and service to humanity, warning:

“You are nominated today by the people because of your good deeds to humanity. We are watching you, and your people are also watching. Anytime you turn away from those values which have earned you this honour, we will not hesitate to strip you of the title.”

Chief Ogbonnaya Odabe, Publicity Sub-committee Chairman of the event, described the monarch as a leader of charisma, integrity, and excellence.

He highlighted that the conferment was based on merit and contributions to community development, rather than wealth or political influence.

Other community leaders, including Eze Ogbonnaya Eze, President-General of Onicha-Igboeze, praised the monarch’s leadership and pledged ongoing support to advance peace, development, and security in the community.

Some of the title recipients, speaking to newsmen, expressed gratitude for the recognition and reaffirmed their commitment to uphold the values that earned them the honours.

Chief Ogbonnaya Okorie noted that while his humanitarian acts were never for reward, the chieftaincy title would inspire him to do more for his people.

The event also featured vibrant cultural displays, music, and dances, highlighting the rich traditions of the Onicha community.

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Eze Ferdinand Okoronkwo Nwujor was elected Enyi II of Onicha Autonomous Community in April 2024, following the passing of his predecessor, Eze Agwu Nwukpa, Enyi I.