By CHARLES IWUOHA

Chief Samuel Opuh has been elected the new traditional ruler of Oshiri autonomous community in Onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

There has been attempts to get a new traditional ruler by the community which proved abortive until the last effort that paid off following the death of the traditional ruler of the community, J.U.O Nwogo four years ago.

The election was keenly contested in the community by eight persons.

Opuh polled a total of 10 votes to emerge victorious while his closest rival, Njoku Harrison scored 9 votes.

Obasi Nweze got 7 votes while Ifeanyi Nwagu scored 6 votes. Pius Okoro got 1 votes while three other aspirants didn't get any vote.

Addressing the people of his community after his coronation as “Ezeogo Opuh Akpataeze 1 of Oshiri” at the community ancestral home, Opuh, promised to restore peace, unite his community, restore moral values , brings development and linkages.

"What is happening today in our society is very bad. Our youths are driven from obligations to evil vices and this is what I plan to pay serious attention to. Peace and even development is also my priority.

"As a traditional ruler, if you don't link up with your neighbouring communities, you don't link up with the state, you don't link up at the national level, there is nothing you can do for your community", he stated.

He called on his rivals to join hands with him to develop the community, adding that he has served the community in many capacity which made him to be elected the traditional ruler.

Some stakeholders of the community including Chief Odefa Obasi and Hon.Agu Opuh the Coordinator of Oshiri development center, hailed the emergence of traditional ruler. According to them, the installation of a new king in Oshiri will bring unity, as the winner is known for his active service to humanity in the community.

They however lauded the people of his community for their genuine position in electing a good man with good reputation as their king and urged the new king to rule like King Solomon in the scriptures and be fair to all.

The election was monitored by Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters and Onicha Local Government Area representatives.