BY TONY EDIKE
ENUGU — THE Ozalla Uwelu autonomous community in Igbo-Etiti local government area of Enugu State has formally presented its Igwe-elect, Igwe Emmanuel Ugwuada, to the state government for recognition.

The State Commissioner for Chieftaincy Matters, Pastor Emeka Abugwu, received the traditional ruler-elect at the ceremony held at Akaibite Primary School, Ozalla.

President General of the community, Comrade Bartholomew Emekama, who made the presentation on behalf of his community, said the election of their Igwe was the most peaceful as far as election of traditional rulers in the state was concerned.

He expressed joy and satisfaction with the peaceful manner the royal father was elected, stressing that “the quantum joy we are sharing today and now is connected with the nature and manner the Igwe-elect was picked without rancour or rivalry.”

According to him, “Igwe Ugwuada’s endorsement was devoid of bickering, rancour and acrimony and was elected unopposed,” pointing out that the controversies that had trailed the election of traditional rulers in most communities across the country in recent times was not experienced in Ozalla Uwelu community”.

Earlier in his speech, the Commissioner for Chieftaincy Matters, Pastor Abugwu described Ozalla Uwelu community as a place where wisdom, peace and understanding prevail in all its endeavours.

He stated that if other communities in the state should elect their Igwe in similar manner his responsibilities as Commissioner for Chieftaincy Matters would be easier, stressing that he would inform the governor of his experience in the community.

While reminding the Igwe-elect of the enormous task ahead, the commissioner advised him to be guided by the principles of equity, transparency and accountability in all his responsibilities, adding that he should prove the trust reposed on him by his people.

In his remarks, Chairman of Igbo-Etiti local government area, Engr. Festus Ozoemena noted that the council would assist any community in the area to elect their traditional ruler in a peaceful manner, urging other communities to emulate the peaceful manner Ozalla Uwelu autonomous community elected her royal father.

The council chairman, however, appealed to the state government to expedite action in the certification and coronation of the Igwe-elect.