Enugu State recognizes Igwe Aloysius Ogbonna as new ruler of Ogugu after 25-year vacancy, promising development and peace
The Enugu State Government, under the leadership of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, has officially presented a certificate of recognition to Igwe Aloysius Chigozie Ogbonna as the traditional ruler-elect of the Ogugu Ntu-Egbenese Ancient Kingdom in Awgu Local Government Area of Enugu State.
The presentation ceremony took place on Thursday at the Enugu State Ministry of Rural Development, Local Government Matters and Chieftaincy Affairs in Enugu.
This event marks a significant milestone for the Ogugu community, which has been without a traditional ruler for over 25 years following the passing of their former Igwe, Late Godwin Ochi, in 1999.
Presenting the certificate on behalf of the State Government, the Commissioner for Local Government, Rural Development and Chieftaincy Affairs, Deacon Okey Ogbodo, expressed his joy at the community finally having a traditional leader, anticipating a new era of peace for Ogugu.
He announced that the Staff of Office would be conferred upon Igwe Ogbonna on Friday in the community, urging the new monarch to uphold good character and respect the laws of the land, as failure to do so could result in the withdrawal of his recognition and Staff of Office.
I am happy, not just for me but the entire Ogugu. On behalf of Ogugu people, I thank Gov. Mbah that after 25 years, we now have a king to rule Ogugu. I have a dream to see that Ogugu will know that they have an Igwe. I’ll attract investors that will invest in Ogugu and give jobs to our youths by building industries,” said Igwe Aloysius Chidozie Ogbonna Jnr.
Deacon Ogbodo stated, “I am glad to have you here on behalf of His Excellency, Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, on this historic occasion. For the past 25 years, Ogugu community had no leadership…
His Excellency, the Governor, has approved your recognition as the traditional ruler of Ogugu Ntu-Egbenese Ancient Kingdom. And this approval took effect from the 26th of March, 2025.”
Receiving the certificate, Igwe Aloysius Chidozie Ogbonna Jnr. expressed his profound happiness and reiterated his commitment to bringing development and investment to his community, emphasizing his role as a servant leader.
He thanked Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for ensuring a transparent electoral process and pledged the community’s support to his administration. Igwe Ogbonna also acknowledged the efforts of the State Ministry in bridging the gap between rural communities and the government.
Elected on January 14, 2025, after securing 867 votes, Igwe Aloysius Chidozie Ogbonna Jnr. will receive his Staff of Office and the Ọfọ Ntu-Egbenese on Friday, formally becoming the leader of the Ntu-Egbenese clan, which encompasses over 32 communities and holds a significant place in Enugu State’s history.
Culture4 years ago
