By Prince Solomon Okorie

Akpoha, Ebonyi State — January 25, 2026

After twelve years without a traditional ruler, the people of Akpoha Autonomous Community in Afikpo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State have formally enthroned a new monarch, marking a historic restoration of traditional leadership in the community.

The coronation of His Royal Highness, Ezeogo Augustine Ogbonnaya, who ascended the throne as Igurube Nnekwu III, took place amid jubilation, colourful cultural displays, and the presence of dignitaries from within and outside the community. He succeeds the late monarch, Igurube Nnekwu II, HRH Ezeogo J. A. Egwu, whose demise left the throne vacant for over a decade.

In line with long-standing tradition, the newly crowned monarch conferred chieftaincy titles on over thirty distinguished personalities, honouring individuals whose selfless service and commitment have positively impacted grassroots development and the lives of ordinary citizens.

Among the honourees was Hon. Kenneth Orji Obasi, Coordinator of Amoha Development Centre, who was conferred with the title “Nwa di Oha Nma I of Akpoha Autonomous Community.” Reflecting on the significance of the honour, Hon. Obasi attributed the recognition to purposeful leadership and the opportunity provided by the Ebonyi State Government under Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru.

Speaking shortly after the ceremony, Hon. Obasi praised the governor for finding him worthy to serve as Development Centre Coordinator, noting that leadership flourishes when opportunity meets responsibility.

“Governor Nwifuru is the one singing the song that I am dancing. Without the governor setting the platform, my efforts might not have been recognized,” he said.



According to him, the chieftaincy title reflects his contributions to human capital development, infrastructural advancement, and grassroots empowerment within the community.

“My people found me worthy to be honoured today because of what I have done for them as DC Coordinator. They told me that for a long time they have not seen a leader like me—one who is selfless, understands the needs of his people, and provides solutions,” Obasi stated.

He described the title as both recognition and motivation, adding that it has further strengthened his resolve to serve.

“This honour is meant to encourage me to do more, and I am truly motivated by this singular gesture,” he added.



The conferment highlighted the central theme of the coronation ceremony—recognition of service, people-centred leadership, and community development—as Akpoha embraces a new chapter under the reign of Igurube Nnekwu III.

In his royal address, the monarch offered prayers and blessings for the community and all honourees, asking God to grant them protection, prosperity, and good health. He also commended Governor Nwifuru for ongoing infrastructural development across Ebonyi State, particularly the construction of access roads and palace duplexes for traditional rulers.

However, HRH Igurube Nnekwu III appealed to the governor to extend such projects to Akpoha Autonomous Communities, noting that neither of the two communities in Akpoha has yet benefited from the palace construction initiative.

The coronation ceremony not only restored traditional authority in Akpoha but also reaffirmed the community’s collective commitment to unity, service, and sustainable development under the leadership of Igurube Nnekwu III.

By Prince Solomon Okorie

After twelve years without a traditional ruler, the people of Akpoha Autonomous Community in Afikpo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State have formally enthroned a new king, marking a historic return to full traditional leadership in the community.

The coronation of His Royal Highness, Ezeogo Augustine Ogbonnaya, who ascends the throne as Igurube Nnekwu III, took place today amid jubilation, cultural displays, and the presence of dignitaries from within and outside the community. He succeeds the late monarch, Igurube Nnekwu II, HRH Ezeogo J. A. Egwu, whose death left the community without a king for over a decade.

As part of long-standing tradition, the newly crowned monarch conferred chieftaincy titles on over thirty distinguished personalities in recognition of their selfless service, commitment to grassroots development, and positive impact on the lives of ordinary citizens.

Among the honourees was Chief Chinedu Eze Igwe, who was conferred with the title “Omeudo II of Akpoha Autonomous Community.” Speaking shortly after the conferment, Chief Igwe expressed deep gratitude to the community and reflected on the significance of the occasion.

“I am here because the good people of Akpoha Autonomous Community decided to honour me with the chieftaincy title of Omeudo II. I feel delighted to be part of this historic moment. A community staying for years without a king is not something to be encouraged, and today’s coronation is a source of great joy for Akpuoha,” he said.

Chief Igwe also commended Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru for officially recognizing Akpoha Autonomous Community with a traditional ruler, noting that previous administrations neglected the community and its traditional institution for twelve years.

“I am particularly happy that my efforts towards the development of Akpoha people have been recognized. This honour will spur me to increase the momentum of my goodwill and service,” he added.



He further urged citizens to embrace integrity, diligence, and people-oriented service, stressing that communities keep records of every contribution made by individuals.

“I encourage people to be honest, hardworking, and community-focused. Posterity keeps accurate records of our actions,” he stated.

In his royal address, HRH Igurube Nnekwu III offered prayers and blessings for Akpoha community and all the honourees, asking God to grant them protection, prosperity, and good health. The monarch also commended Governor Nwifuru for ongoing infrastructural development across Ebonyi State, particularly the construction of access roads and palace duplexes for traditional rulers.

However, he appealed to the governor to extend such projects to Akpoha Autonomous Communities, noting that neither of the two communities in Akpuoha has yet benefited from the palace construction initiative.

The coronation ceremony marked not only the restoration of traditional authority in Akpoha but also a renewed commitment to unity, service, and sustainable community development under the reign of Igurube Nnekwu III.

By Prince Solomon Okorie

After twelve years without a traditional ruler, the people of Akpuoha Autonomous Community in Afikpo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State have formally enthroned a new king, marking a historic return to full traditional leadership in the community.

The coronation of His Royal Highness, Ezeogo Augustine Ogbonnaya, who ascends the throne as Igurube Nnekwu III, took place today amid jubilation, cultural displays, and the presence of dignitaries from within and outside the community. He succeeds the late monarch, Igurube Nnekwu II, HRH Ezeogo J. A. Egwu, whose death left the community without a king for over a decade.

As part of long-standing tradition, the newly crowned monarch conferred chieftaincy titles on over thirty distinguished personalities in recognition of their selfless service, commitment to grassroots development, and positive impact on the lives of ordinary citizens.

Among the honourees was Chief Chinedu Eze Igwe, who was conferred with the title “Omeudo II of Akpuoha Autonomous Community.” Speaking shortly after the conferment, Chief Igwe expressed deep gratitude to the community and reflected on the significance of the occasion.

“I am here because my good people of Akpuoha Autonomous Community decided to honour me with the chieftaincy title of Omeudo II. I feel delighted to be part of this historic moment. A community staying for years without a king is not something to be encouraged, and today’s coronation is a source of great joy for Akpuoha,” he said.

Chief Igwe also commended Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru for officially recognizing Akpuoha Autonomous Community with a traditional ruler, noting that previous administrations neglected the community and its traditional institution for twelve years.

“I am particularly happy that my efforts towards the development of Akpuoha people have been recognized. This honour will spur me to increase the momentum of my goodwill and service,” he added.

He further urged citizens to embrace integrity, diligence, and people-oriented service, stressing that communities keep records of every contribution made by individuals.

“I encourage people to be honest, hardworking, and community-focused. Posterity keeps accurate records of our actions,” he stated.

In his royal address, HRH Igurube Nnekwu III offered prayers and blessings for Akpuoha community and all the honourees, asking God to grant them protection, prosperity, and good health. The monarch also commended Governor Nwifuru for ongoing infrastructural development across Ebonyi State, particularly the construction of access roads and palace duplexes for traditional rulers.

However, he appealed to the governor to extend such projects to Akpuoha Autonomous Communities, noting that neither of the two communities in Akpuoha has yet benefited from the palace construction initiative.

The coronation ceremony marked not only the restoration of traditional authority in Akpuoha but also a renewed commitment to unity, service, and sustainable community development under the reign of Igurube Nnekwu III.

By Prince Solomon Okorie

AFIKPO, EBONYI STATE – After a twelve-year leadership vacuum following the passing of HRH Ezeogo J.A. Egwu (Igurube Nnekwu II), the people of Akpuoha Autonomous Community have finally entered a new chapter of traditional stability. The community erupted in celebration today for the coronation of His Royal Highness, Ezeogo Augustine Ogbonnaya, as the Igurube Nnekwu III.

In line with ancient tradition, the newly crowned King marked his ascension by conferring chieftaincy titles upon thirty distinguished personalities who have significantly impacted the lives of the common man and contributed to community development.

Prof. Leonard Uguru: The “Eze Sinachi I” of Akpuoha
Among the prominent awardees was Prof. Leonard Chukwuma Uguru, the Ebonyi State Commissioner for Finance and Economic Development. Despite hailing from Abakaliki Local Government Area, the King and the people of Akpuoha selected him for the prestigious title of Eze Sinachi I of Akpuoha.

Speaking to the press following the ceremony, Prof. Uguru expressed his deep appreciation for the cross-regional recognition:

“I feel delighted because to stay for years without a king is not something to be encouraged. I observe that the Akpuoha people are overjoyed today, courtesy of His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, who recognized this community with a traditional ruler after twelve years of neglect by previous administrations.”

“For me to be selected all the way from Abakaliki Local Government means that my efforts are touching lives even here in Afikpo. This will spur me to increase the momentum of my goodwill. I encourage everyone to be honest and hardworking; the communities we serve keep records of everything—that is posterity.”

The King’s Vision and Appeal to Government
During the ceremony, HRH Igurube Nnekwu III offered prayers for his subjects and the awardees, asking for divine protection, prosperity, and health. While celebrating the new peace in his domain, the Monarch also used the platform to advocate for local development.

Gratitude to Governor Nwifuru: The King commended the Governor for his visionary “People’s Charter of Needs,” particularly the statewide initiative to construct 2-kilometer roads and palace duplexes for traditional rulers.

A Request for Inclusion:The Monarch noted that Akpuoha is yet to benefit from these specific infrastructural projects. He respectfully appealed to Governor Nwifuru to extend the road construction and palace projects to the two communities within Akpuoha Autonomous Community to further cement the administration’s legacy in the area.

Key Highlights of the Event
End of a 12-Year Interregnum: Restoration of traditional authority after more than a decade without a king.
Merit-Based Honors: Chieftaincy titles were awarded to over 30 individuals from within and outside the community.
Political Synergy: The event highlighted the strong bond between the traditional institution and the current state administration.

By Eddie-Johns – Guidepost News International

ABAKALIKI– The leadership of the Labour Party (LP) in Ebonyi State has forcefully debunked rumors suggesting that the party is collapsing its structures into the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

At an expanded stakeholders’ meeting held on Tuesday in Abakaliki, the State Chairman, Chief Henry Ude (Ajimbest), clarified that while the party is participating in a strategic coalition to support the presidential ambition of Mr. Peter Obi, its organizational identity remains independent and unshaken.

Coalition, Not Subjugation
Addressing journalists, Chief Ude emphasized the superiority of the Labour Party’s current political standing compared to the ADC, citing its legislative seats and gubernatorial victory.

The Strength of the LP: “Labour Party has produced governors, senators, and representatives. It is the stronger, more rooted party. We are joining a coalition for a common goal, but nobody is collapsing Labour Party into any other party,” Ude asserted.
New Membership: The Chairman officially welcomed 15 new members into the fold, charging them to be “ambassadors of integrity” for the party.

Local Government Elections and Court Constraints
Regarding the upcoming local government polls, the Chairman noted that internal processes are being handled with caution due to pending legal matters at the national level.

Integrity-Based Nominations: Ude assured that LP forms would not be “robbery forms.” He hinted that to ensure the best candidates emerge, forms might be issued free of charge or at a very modest cost.
Competence Over Capital: “Don’t vote for people because they have money. If possible, the Labour Party will even support aspirants financially to ensure money does not choose our leaders,” he added.

The “Obidient” Movement and Strategic Alliances
The 2023 governorship candidate of the party in Ebonyi, Chief Splendour Oko, echoed the Chairman’s sentiments, stating that the support for Peter Obi transcends traditional party lines.

A Cross-Party Mandate: Oko reminded stakeholders that Obi’s votes in the last election came from members of various political parties who believe in good governance.

Unwavering Loyalty: “Wherever Peter Obi is, we follow him because we believe he can deliver the Nigeria we desire,” Oko stated, reaffirming the state chapter’s commitment to the Obidient Movement.

Criticism of “Outrageous” APC Nomination Fees. The State Secretary, Comrade Innocent Igiri, used the occasion to condemn the All Progressives Congress (APC) for its high cost of nomination forms for the local government elections.

“At a time when Nigerians are struggling to survive, charging ₦30 million for a nomination form is insensitive and criminally inclined,” Igiri remarked.

He questioned how ordinary citizens could participate in governance under such financial barriers and urged Nigerians to remain hopeful, stating that the “era of corruption and bad leadership is nearing its end.”

Key Meeting Outcome cum Labour Party position: ADC merger rumor categorically denied. Labour Party is in a coalition, not a merger. 2027 strategy full support for Peter Obi through the Obidient Movement.
Local government forms  expected to be low-cost or free to encourage competence.
Political philosophy competence over wealth;  leadership by the people, not by money.

By Eddie-Johns – Guidepost News International

ABAKALIKI– The leadership of the Labour Party (LP) in Ebonyi State has forcefully debunked rumors suggesting that the party is collapsing its structures into the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

At an expanded stakeholders’ meeting held on Tuesday in Abakaliki, the State Chairman, Chief Henry Ude (Ajimbest), clarified that while the party is participating in a strategic coalition to support the presidential ambition of Mr. Peter Obi, its organizational identity remains independent and unshaken.

Coalition, Not Subjugation
Addressing journalists, Chief Ude emphasized the superiority of the Labour Party’s current political standing compared to the ADC, citing its legislative seats and gubernatorial victory.

The Strength of the LP: “Labour Party has produced governors, senators, and representatives. It is the stronger, more rooted party. We are joining a coalition for a common goal, but nobody is collapsing Labour Party into any other party,” Ude asserted.
New Membership: The Chairman officially welcomed 15 new members into the fold, charging them to be “ambassadors of integrity” for the party.

Local Government Elections and Court Constraints
Regarding the upcoming local government polls, the Chairman noted that internal processes are being handled with caution due to pending legal matters at the national level.

Integrity-Based Nominations: Ude assured that LP forms would not be “robbery forms.” He hinted that to ensure the best candidates emerge, forms might be issued free of charge or at a very modest cost.
Competence Over Capital: “Don’t vote for people because they have money. If possible, the Labour Party will even support aspirants financially to ensure money does not choose our leaders,” he added.

The “Obidient” Movement and Strategic Alliances
The 2023 governorship candidate of the party in Ebonyi, Chief Splendour Oko, echoed the Chairman’s sentiments, stating that the support for Peter Obi transcends traditional party lines.

A Cross-Party Mandate: Oko reminded stakeholders that Obi’s votes in the last election came from members of various political parties who believe in good governance.

Unwavering Loyalty: “Wherever Peter Obi is, we follow him because we believe he can deliver the Nigeria we desire,” Oko stated, reaffirming the state chapter’s commitment to the Obidient Movement.

Criticism of “Outrageous” APC Nomination Fees. The State Secretary, Comrade Innocent Igiri, used the occasion to condemn the All Progressives Congress (APC) for its high cost of nomination forms for the local government elections.

“At a time when Nigerians are struggling to survive, charging ₦30 million for a nomination form is insensitive and criminally inclined,” Igiri remarked.

He questioned how ordinary citizens could participate in governance under such financial barriers and urged Nigerians to remain hopeful, stating that the “era of corruption and bad leadership is nearing its end.”

Key Meeting Outcome cum Labour Party position: ADC merger rumor categorically denied. Labour Party is in a coalition, not a merger. 2027 strategy full support for Peter Obi through the Obidient Movement.
Local government forms  expected to be low-cost or free to encourage competence.
Political philosophy competence over wealth;  leadership by the people, not by money.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) Independent Campaign Council has been officially inaugurated in Ebonyi State, marking a significant step toward building a broad-based coalition for political change ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking at the inauguration, the State Coordinator, Mr. Johnson Chukwu, expressed deep dissatisfaction with the prevailing insecurity and worsening economic hardship across the country. He emphasized the urgent need for a united front—bringing together citizens from diverse political parties and backgrounds who are disillusioned with bad governance—to mobilize support for the ADC’s 2027 presidential agenda and other elective positions. According to him, the council will also serve as a platform for advocacy, civic education, and a return to the values envisioned by Nigeria’s founding fathers.

A strong humanitarian tone ran through the event, with particular emphasis on the plight of women. Addressing the gathering, the State Women Leader, Barr. Mrs. Ogbodo Ifeama, noted that women bear a disproportionate burden of the nation’s crises, from violence that claims the lives of husbands and children to economic instability that erodes household purchasing power. She stressed that these realities make the call for good governance not only political but moral.

In a separate address, Mr. Zion called on members to demonstrate unwavering commitment by leveraging knowledge, intellect, and grassroots mobilization to drive the ADC’s 2027 agenda. He lamented what he described as a betrayal of the founding fathers’ vision, insisting that only collective action can deliver a “new Nigeria” where lives and property are secure.

Officiating the inauguration, Engr. Dr. Sunday Opoke described the council as a coalition and collaboration of like-minded Nigerians drawn from various support groups and political backgrounds, united by fatigue with poor governance. He charged the newly inaugurated leaders to be trustworthy, law-abiding, and effective, stressing that the council must embody the principles of good governance it advocates.

He further announced that all appointments would undergo a 60-day probationary period, after which members may be confirmed, dropped, or asked to resign based on performance. Newly appointed executives were directed to submit their acceptance or rejection letters within 48 hours (by 17/01/2026).

Key Resolutions

• Mobilize all available resources—knowledge, intellect, and grassroots networks—to advance the ADC’s 2027 agenda.
• Build widespread support for the newly inaugurated council.
• Promote good governance through sustained civic education.
• Ensure all campaign activities strictly comply with the law and party constitution.
• Uphold and demonstrate the values of good governance in conduct and service.

List of Appointed State Executives

1. Coordinator: Johnson Chukwu (Ohaozara)
2. Deputy Coordinator: Emmanuel Michael Umeoha (Ohaukwu)
3. State Secretary: Okey Darlington (Ikwo)
4. Assistant Secretary: Akputa Franklin (Ebonyi)
5. Publicity Secretary: Prince Solomon Okorie (Ohaozara)
6. Deputy Publicity Secretary: Mgbabor Celestine (Ebonyi)
7. Treasurer: Isha Chinedu Charity
8. Financial Secretary: Hon. Adanma Josephine O. (Ohaozara)
9. Woman Leader: Barr. Mrs. Ogbodo Ifeama (Ezza South)
10. Deputy Woman Leader: Mrs. Ude Blessing N. (Ivo)
11. Organizing Secretary: Sunday Edene (Izzi)
12. State Auditor: Nwankwegu Ebuka (Abakaliki)
13. Youth Leader: Barr. Ibeabuchi Levi Ajah (Ivo)
14. Deputy Youth Leader: Ifeanyi Mgbebu Abraham (Ikwo)
15. Legal Adviser: Barr. Nworie Collins (Ishielu)
16. Ebonyi North Zonal Coordinator: Akpata Emeka (Izzi)

The event concluded with a resounding call for unity and lawful engagement, captured in the council’s rallying message:

“Together, we can make a New Nigeria possible.”

Signed:
Johnson Chukwu – Coordinator, Ebonyi State Chapter
Prince Solomon Okorie – Publicity Secretary, Ebonyi State

By Prince Solomon Okorie

Hon. Nwaleke Ifeanyi, an All Progressives Congress (APC) councillorship aspirant for Nwigbeke Ward 2 in Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, has expressed strong confidence in his electoral prospects while unveiling a leadership philosophy rooted in peace, continuity, and people-oriented development.

Speaking shortly after purchasing his APC nomination and expression of interest forms, Hon. Ifeanyi described his ambition as divinely guided, emphasizing that his quest for office is not driven by radical change but by a resolve to consolidate on existing achievements. He noted that his primary objective is to build upon the prevailing peace and progress recorded under the administration of the Ebonyi State Governor, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Builder Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru.

According to him, the peaceful atmosphere currently enjoyed by communities in the area is the product of purposeful leadership, which he attributed to Governor Nwifuru’s commitment to unity, stability, and inclusive governance. He stressed that peace remains the foundation upon which all meaningful development can thrive.

Hon. Ifeanyi stated that, if elected, his administration would focus on taking the “people’s charter of needs” to the grassroots by engaging directly with constituents to identify and address their peculiar challenges. He maintained that effective leadership is about enhancement and value addition rather than dismantling existing structures.

“The greatest achievement of any leader is peace,” he said, adding that without peace, infrastructural and socio-economic developments are vulnerable to destruction. He pledged to prioritize peace-building while ensuring that democratic dividends reach the people at the ward level.

He further commended Governor Nwifuru for recording over three years without major crises in the state, a feat he described as unprecedented in the last three decades. He assured supporters that his leadership would align with the governor’s vision by sustaining peace and delivering people-centered governance.

Hon. Ifeanyi also referenced the Effium community, which was torn apart by communal crises for over three years before Governor Nwifuru successfully restored peace. He promised to sustain the governor’s peace initiatives and work toward the peaceful return of displaced residents who fled the area due to the conflict. He also appealed to the state government to restore social amenities in the affected communities to fast-track resettlement and normalcy.

In addition, he appreciated Governor Nwifuru for the creation of two new autonomous communities for his people—Alioma and Ezekunna Alioma Autonomous Communities—describing the move as a significant step toward inclusive governance and grassroots development.

The purchase of the nomination and expression of interest forms was witnessed by APC stakeholders, including Comrade Romanus Uzor, who urged youths of the area to rally behind Hon. Ifeanyi’s candidature in the interest of sustained peace, unity, and development.

By Prince Solomon Okorie



Hon. Nwaleke Ifeanyi, an All Progressives Congress (APC) councillorship aspirant for Nwigbeke Ward 2, Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, has expressed strong optimism about his electoral prospects and outlined his leadership philosophy, anchored on peace, continuity, and people-oriented development.

Speaking shortly after purchasing his APC nomination and expression of interest forms, Hon. Ifeanyi described his ambition as divinely guided, stressing that his aspiration is not driven by the desire for radical change but by a commitment to consolidate on existing achievements. He noted that his primary objective is to build upon the prevailing peace and progress established by the administration of the Ebonyi State Governor, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Builder Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru.

According to him, the peaceful atmosphere currently enjoyed by communities in the area is a direct result of purposeful leadership, which he attributed to Governor Nwifuru’s commitment to unity and stability. He emphasized that peace remains the foundation upon which all meaningful development thrives.

Hon. Ifeanyi stated that, if elected, his administration would focus on taking the “people’s charter of needs” to the grassroots by engaging directly with constituents to understand and address their peculiar challenges. He stressed that leadership is about enhancement and value addition rather than dismantling existing structures.

“The greatest achievement of any leader is peace,” he said, adding that without peace, infrastructural and socio-economic developments become vulnerable to destruction. He pledged to prioritize peace-building while ensuring that democratic dividends reach the people at the ward level.

He further commended Governor Nwifuru for recording over three years without major crises in the state, a feat he described as unprecedented in the last three decades. He assured supporters that his leadership would align with the governor’s vision by sustaining peace and delivering people-centered governance.

Hon. Ifeanyi also eulogized the efforts of the current administration at both state and local levels, promising to consolidate on their achievements rather than pursue an overhaul of existing initiatives.

The purchase of the nomination and expression of interest forms was witnessed by APC stakeholders, including Comrade Romanus Uzor, who urged youths of the area to rally support for Hon. Ifeanyi’s candidature in the interest of sustained peace and development.

By Prince Solomon Okorie
Guidepost News International

Ebonyi State Governor, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, has charged youths of Oferekpe Agbaja to embrace education and discipline as the surest pathways to a meaningful and prosperous future.

The governor gave the charge while speaking at the 2026 Oferekpe Agbaja Day celebration held yesterday, where he warned against what he described as the “twin evils” of illicit drug abuse and laziness, stressing that the peace, growth, and stability of any community largely depend on the character of its younger generation.

Emphasizing education as the “surest pathway” to success, Governor Nwifuru announced a comprehensive educational sponsorship policy for the community, stating that the Ebonyi State Government will henceforth sponsor the university education of any indigene of Oferekpe Agbaja from admission to graduation.

In further demonstration of the state’s commitment to academic excellence, the governor awarded a ₦20 million scholarship to Little Miss Chiamaka Fabian Adagba, whose outstanding performance during the event drew wide applause.

Beyond individual support, Governor Nwifuru made major commitments toward the community’s infrastructural and institutional development. He pledged ₦100 million for the construction of the Oferekpe Agbaja Town Hall and confirmed that the University of ICT, Oferekpe, has commenced academic activities in line with National Universities Commission (NUC) guidelines. He urged local youths to take advantage of the institution to build relevant skills for the future.

Speaking to journalists on the sidelines of the event, the governor addressed a viral report involving Ebonyi teenagers allegedly linked to sex trafficking. He reassured the public that the state government had intervened promptly, leading to the successful reunification of the affected children with their families. He added that the Nigeria Police Force is currently investigating the perpetrators to ensure justice is served.

The event also featured a show of generosity by the governor’s father and traditional ruler of the community, HRH Eze Nwifuru Nwankpu, who donated a cow and ₦2 million each to the 17 villages that make up the autonomous community.

Dignitaries at the event, including the Chairman of the occasion, Chief Elias Mbam, commended Governor Nwifuru’s “son of the soil” leadership style and urged the people to sustain unity and peaceful coexistence.

The celebration climaxed with colourful cultural dances and musical performances, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Izzi people.