By Ezeakukwu Emmanuel Nsoedo
The 2024 Ofala of His Royal Highness Igwe Dr KON Orizu III kicked off with the usual Christian service.
HRH Igwe Orizu III celebrated his 99 years birthday and 61 years on the throne to kick off the Ofala activities.
The Obi Uruagu, Obi Afam Obi (Ogidi), Obi Umudim, Obi Bennett Okafor (Amaukwu), and Obi Nnewichi, Obi George Onyeakaba (Obidiugwu) were all present for the grand occasion, which validates the cohesion and unity of Nnewi.
The title recognition for this year has an extra touch of recognizing individuals at the apex of public service. It took a great effort and commendation (is in order) for the palace to short-list such impeccable personalities to be honored.
Her Excellency Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu was honored with the title of “Iyom Akaepkuchi Onwa.” She was a former Ambassador, and now, Minister for External Affairs.
Senator Victor Umeh is a serving Senator, representing the Anambra Central Senatorial zone. Igwe Nnewi gave the title of “Ifechukwudebelu Nnewi” to Senator Umeh. He was hooded by the Crown Prince, before Igwe Nnewi put a red cap on his head, and then decorated him with special beads on his neck, and handed him a fan made with an animal skin with his new title name emblazoned on it.
Senator Dr Chris Ngige, a former Governor of Anambra State, former Senator, and former Minister of Labour, was given the title of “Otuwaluzo Nnewi”. It is worthy of note that he made Igwe Nnewi the Chairman of Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council when he was the governor of Anambra state. He went through the same ceremonial process as Senator Victor Umeh.
Finally, Chief Barr Sylvester Okonkwo is the outgoing Chief of Staff to His Excellency, Akpabio, Senate President of the Federation, and now, the Chairman of Southeast Development Commission. The Igwe bestowed on him the title of “Ugomba Nnewi”.
All of the recipients spoke about the person of Igwe Nnewi as a great person with an impeccable character and a role model.
Several groups and individuals paid homage to Igwe through out the day.
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