Awka – Anambra State Government on Wednesday presented Certificates of Recognition to three new traditional rulers in the state.
The certificate presentation was done by Governor of the State, Chief Willie Obiano, in the exercise of his constitutional mandate.
Among the traditional rulers recognized and presented with certificates of recognition were the Traditional Ruler of Ideani in Idemili North LGA, Igwe Steven Onyekwelu Ezeji, the traditional ruler of Ugbene in Awka North, Igwe Samson Chimakwa, Awka North and their Orsumoghu in Ihiala LGA counterpart, Igwe Elochukwu Mbanefo.
The presentation ceremony which was held at the Governor’s Lodge, Amawbia, had in attendance, families, friends and well wishes of the new Traditional Rulers.
Presenting the certificates, Governor Obiano advised the new monarchs to be peace ambassadors in their various communities.
He further urged them to carry the youths along in the administration of their various towns and warned them against land grabbing or support for cultists, pointing out that the government will not tolerate any action geared towards stifling the peace that presently reign in the state.
“By enthroning you, government wants you to take full charge of your communities. We don’t want any form of discord that can threaten the peace that we enjoy in the state presently. Remember that as royal fathers, you are to superintend over those who voted for you and those who did not, and to do this, you need to love your people and unite them,” Obiano said.
Earlier, in his address, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Mr. Greg Obi pointed out that the new traditional rulers were selected/elected through simple transparent process, that followed the constitution and tradition of the various communities.
He averred that Governor Obiano has recognized and presented Igweship certificates to 53 Traditional Rulers, which according to him is the highest ever done by any Governor in the state.
Some of the traditional rulers, Igwe Chimakwa and Igwe Mbanefo promised to lead their people with the fear of God.
They assured the government that they will mobilize their various communities to key into the programmes for grassroots development.
