From Magnus Eze, Enugu
On Sunday October 6, 2024, all roads led to the palace of Eze Innocent Nworie, the Ezekuna 1 of Ezekuna in Ishielu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State. Neither the remoteness of the area nor the difficult to access terrain due to deplorable road could deter the array of guests that thronged the community.
Family, friends and associates of one of the traditional title recipients, Prince Chukwudi Edene, truly came in their numbers.
Edene was conferred with the title of Ogbu 1 of Ezekuna Kingdom while his spouse, Chinenye, received the title of Ugodiya. The prestigious Ogbu title is an honour bestowed on individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, service, and commitment to the community. In Igbo culture, “Ogbu” translates to “lion” or “strength,” symbolizing courage, resilience, and protection.
Conferring them the titles, Eze Nworie declared that Edene had been very useful to the community, playing various roles at different times.
He urged Edene to remain steadfast in doing good and prayed that God would continue to bless him.
Daily Sun gathered that the Young Tusk has undoubtedly contributed to the development of Ezekuna Community especially being a role model to the younger generations: “As the Ogbu 1 of Ezekuna Kingdom, the title recognizes my selfless contributions to the community’s growth and development, leadership and guidance in times of need, unwavering support for community initiatives and projects, embodiment of values such as wisdom, integrity, and compassion.
“With this title, the community acknowledges my past achievements and expects continued leadership and guidance, enhanced commitment to community development and increased involvement in decision-making processes.
“As Ogbu 1, I am now a symbol of community pride and unity; representative of Ezekuna Kingdom’s values and traditions, source of inspiration and motivation, mediator and conflict resolver as well as guardian of community interests.”
Edene is not oblivious of the enormous responsibility the new title places on his shoulders: “Embracing this title comes with great responsibility. By accepting the challenges and opportunities that come with it, I may demonstrate my dedication to the well-being and progress of Ezekuna Kingdom.
“The community may expect more from me in areas such as community development projects, youth empowerment and mentorship, conflict resolution and mediation.”
In addition, the community expects the newly installed Ogbu 1 to be more involved in cultural preservation and promotion as well as provide leadership and guidance during challenging times.