By Alex Enebeli

Ohom Orba community in Udenu Local Government Area of Enugu State on Saturday held its first Ofala Festival, honouring the Enugu Deputy Governor, Mrs Cecilia Ezeilo, with a chieftaincy title in the process.

Ezeilo was conferred with the chieftaincy title “Nwannedimba”, meaning “A brother in a distance land”, by the Ohom Orba traditional ruler, Everestus Onah, for her contributions towards humanity.

Others bestowed with chieftaincy titles include Speaker, Enugu State House of Assembly, Mr Edward Ubosi, Member representing Igboeze North and Udenu Federal Constituency, Engr. Simon Atigwe and many others.

The festival which began with the Holy Mass, celebrated by the Vicar General Nsukka Diocese, Rev. Fr. Gregory Nnamani, had Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi and many other dignitaries in attendance.

Speaking at the event, Onah said Ofala festival is aimed at thanking God for preserving their lives and also serves as a unifying factor for people of Ohom Orba.

He stated that they would use the festival to attract the presence of some top government officials on the developmental needs of the community as well as thank God for making their son, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, governor for eight years.

“It is with great joy and deep sense of humility and thanksgiving to Almighty God that we are here today.

“We wish to use the festival to recognise and award titles to deserving men and women who have imparted so much on humanity and the Ohom community.

“This is very significant because it is my first Ofala and I want to thank God who sustained us so far,” Onah said.

Onah lauded Ugwuanyi for his contributions towards the community and Enugu State in general, saying, “He is the worthy son of Ohom and corner stone on which today’s event is built”.

Earlier, Nnamani urged the traditional ruler to use his exalted office to ensure that truth prevails all the times.

He told him: “stop fearing men and remove whatever that will hinder you from saying the truth,” saying that many Christians lack conviction to follow the truth”.

Receiving the title, Ezeilo expressed satisfaction over the title and pledged to do more for the community and Nigeria in general.

“This title is an honour to me and it will spur me to serve humanity more,” Ezeilo said. (NAN)

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