A veteran journalist and public relations consultant, Chief Sam Ekpe, has been admitted into the prestigious Enugwu-Ukwu Traditional Cabinet. At an elaborate ceremony in Obu Umunri on January 4, 2025, Ekpe was installed Ezenwa di gbo Enugwu-Ukwu na Umunri, while his wife, Chief Vivian Ekpe, was decorated as Chibundu Enugwu-Ukwu na Umunri.
Chief Ekpe served as public relations officer to late Dr. K.O. Mbadiwe, former presidential adviser in the Second Republic, and as his Special Adviser while Mbadiwe served as ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary of the country.
He also served as public relations manager of the defunct Orient Bank of Nigeria throughout the 13 years lifespan of the bank. He is deeply involved in the affairs of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide and United Igbo Elders Council Worldwide.
Many prominent Nigerians have sent congratulatory messages to the new cabinet chief. They include Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, Dr. Kema Chikwe, Amb Greg Mbadiwe, Arch. Oba Donald Nwandu and Beluolisa Nwofor, a senior advocate of Nigeria.