Awka Monarch Tasks New Cabinet Advisory Council Members on Peace, Unity, Development

By Our Reporter

The Traditional Ruler of Awka Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Obi (Dr.) Gibson Nwabueze Nwosu, Eze Uzu II, has charged newly installed members of the Cabinet Advisory Council to work towards strengthening peace, unity and sustainable development across the kingdom.

The charge came during the installation of nine new members of the council at the monarch’s palace on June 6.

Those installed include the Leader of the Obidient Movement in Anambra State, Chief Obiora Charles Anueyiagu (Oshishiama III) of Umueri; Chief Jonathan Nzekwe (Chinyelugo) of Umuonaga; Chief Uche Nkwo (Arinze Olise) of Obunagu Amikwo; Chief Ken Chukwuma (Omeogo) of Umuogbu; Elder Chief Daniel Anawetalu Moghalu (Ewulu) of Umujagwo; Chief Ken Ekwenugo (Uzu Nka Awka) of Umuogbu; Mr. Godwin Chimezie Okafor (Eze Chukwuchili) of Omuko; Prince Emeka Ndigwe (Adumnwerige) of Umuayom; and Dr. Ikechukwu Felix Nwanna (Egbeigwe) of Okperi.

The ceremony, presided over by the monarch and assisted by the Palace Leader, Engr. Benjamin Okoye (Otutu Awka II), was attended by members of Ndị Ozo Awka, cabinet chiefs, kingmakers and other stakeholders from across the kingdom.

Addressing the new advisers on behalf of the monarch, Engr. Okoye described their appointment as a call to service and urged them to use their experience and influence to promote harmony and progress in Awka Kingdom.

He disclosed that the selection process, which began nearly a year ago, was thorough and transparent to ensure that qualified and credible individuals emerged.

“The strength and stability of every kingdom depend on the commitment of its leaders to peace, unity and development. You have been chosen because of your integrity, experience and contributions to society. I expect you to bring wisdom, honesty and dedication to this responsibility,” he said.

Okoye noted that the Advisory Council occupies a strategic position in the traditional administration of the kingdom and is expected to provide sound counsel on matters affecting the welfare, cultural heritage and development of Awka people.

The newly installed members pledged loyalty to the throne and vowed to serve the kingdom with diligence and integrity.

Speaking on behalf of the council, Chief Jonathan Nzekwe thanked the traditional ruler and the people of Awka for the confidence reposed in them and called on stakeholders to unite in restoring lasting peace and preserving the dignity of the kingdom.

“We appeal to all stakeholders to close ranks and work together in the interest of peace, unity and the restoration of the dignity of our kingdom,” he said.

Also speaking, Chief Obiora Charles Anueyiagu assured the monarch and the people of Awka that the council members would justify the confidence placed in them by supporting initiatives aimed at promoting peace, preserving the kingdom’s cultural heritage and advancing development.

Earlier, the Palace Secretary, Chief Pius C. Okonkwo (Onyemecheliweli), said the appointments were made to fill vacancies created by the death and withdrawal of former representatives.

He explained that the exercise was conducted in line with Article 18(a), Sub-sections I and III of the Awka Traditional Rulers Constitution of 1986, as amended, which provides for continuous representation of all sections of the kingdom in the advisory council.

The ceremony ended with prayers for the continued peace, unity and prosperity of Awka Kingdom and goodwill messages to the newly installed council members.