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From Aloysius Attah, Onitsha
Governor Charles Soludo and the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council, among other dignitaries, have celebrated the traditional ruler of the Awka Kingdom, Obi Gibson Nwosu (Eze Uzu II of Awka), who turned 90 years old on Saturday.
The milestone celebration coincided with a reaffirmation by the Anambra State Government, supported by the Awka Ruling Council and the Bishop of the Awka Catholic Diocese, Rt. Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor, regarding Obi Gibson Nwosu’s status as the sole monarch of the ancient kingdom.
In a tribute marking the occasion, Governor Soludo described Obi Gibson Nwosu as a quintessential monarch, a symbol of peace, and a dedicated custodian of the rich cultural heritage of the Awka people. The Governor noted that reaching the nonagenarian milestone is a profound blessing and a testament to a life lived with purpose, discipline, and commitment to the service of humanity.
Governor Soludo further acknowledged the Eze Uzu’s distinguished career prior to his ascension to the throne, particularly his service as a pioneer aviator, which brought immense pride to the nation. He prayed that the Almighty continue to grant the monarch good health, renewed strength, and continued wisdom.
Speaking on behalf of the Traditional Rulers of Anambra State, Igwe Chukwuemeka Ngene Ezeike of Nibo Town said: “Igwe Gibson Nwosu is a personal friend. I became a traditional ruler before him, and when he ascended the throne, I welcomed him. We, his fellow traditional rulers, wish him well and congratulate him at the age of 90.”
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Bishop Paulinus Ezeokafor lauded Governor Soludo for his decisive stance regarding the recent leadership tussle in the kingdom. “We thank the state government for taking that bold step in clearing the air about the issue of the Eze Uzu tussle. It is the government that decides and recognises who is the head of the traditional institution. A society that lacks peace cannot progress,” the Bishop stated.
The Chairman of the Central Planning Committee for the event, Prof. Austine U. Nonyelu, emphasised that there is no legitimate dispute regarding the monarchy. “You cannot have two traditional rulers in one town; Awka has only one. The public should not be deceived by those who go about misleading people and falsely claiming to be the Eze Uzu of Awka Kingdom.”
Chief Clem Nwogbo, a prominent business leader and son of the Awka Kingdom, added, “We celebrate with him, and the entire Awka people are happy. We are thankful to the Anambra State Government for taking this decisive stand, which has finally put an end to the unnecessary controversy. We are hopeful that everyone will accept this truth so we can move forward and make progress.”
Ozo Benjamin Okoye, the Traditional Prime Minister (Onowu) of Awka Kingdom, also dismissed rival claims to the throne: “We have only one king in Awka, and no other. Anyone else laying claim to this throne is an impostor. As the Onowu, it falls within my office to confirm that Obi Gibson Nwosu is the only traditional ruler of Awka.”
The monarch’s first daughter, Dr. Mamina Nwosu, paid a heartfelt tribute, describing her father as a great and exemplary man.
