From Okey Sampson, Umuahia
The Eze Aro, the traditional ruler of Arochukwu kingdom in Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia State, Eze Eberechukwu Oji, has called on President Bola Tinubu to release the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.
Speaking during his coronation in Arochukwu, Eze Oji, the grandson of the revered Eze Kanu Oji, said the call is necessary since the courts have already sanctioned it.
He said Kanu’s release would not only lessen tension but also rejuvenate economic activities in the South East.
Eze Oji said the Eze Aro stool has been a symbol of their collective strength, peace, and unity.
In his address titled, “History Beckons, a Brighter Future Begins in Aro Kingdom,” Eze Oji said that the unity of purpose for which Aro people are known enabled them to overcome the British invasion in the 19th century.
“We have to reclaim our heritage and ensure our kingdom takes back its vintage position in Igbo land.”
In his speech, Governor Alex Otti tasked communities in the state with choosing good leaders, saying that any community that fails to produce a good person as its traditional ruler is cursed.
Perhaps referring to the Ezeship tussle and government actions that preceded the selection of Eze Oji, Otti said, “The majority of Arochukwu people are happy with what is happening here today (Saturday). For those who are not happy, it’s not our business to make everybody happy.
“I recommend what happens in Abia to other communities. Any society that does not have good leadership is a cursed one. Power comes from God, and in His own time, He makes things beautiful.”
The Governor commended the people of Arochukwu for their choice of Eze Oji as their traditional ruler, adding that the present monarch is one who will invest his resources in developing the community, instead of plundering it.
“The present Eze Aro is one who invests instead of cornering the people’s commonwealth.
“Anybody who wants to lead his people should have a second address like the Eze Aro, who I believe will contribute his quarter to the development of the community.”
Otti, thanking the people for making a good choice, urged the traditional ruler to rule with the fear of God and ensure the development of his community.
Some traditional rulers outside Abia who attended the coronation include King Jaja of Opobo, Rivers State; Alhaji Sanusi Bashir, Emir of Kanuri; Dr. Benjamin Ikechukwu, King of Agbor, Delta State; and Ededem Cosmos, traditional ruler of Uran, who represented the Obong of Calabar. Many other dignitaries were also present.