By ALEX ENEBELI

The Uhueze-Nenwe Autonomous Community in Aninri Council Area of Enugu State has coronated a retired Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG), Chief Godwin-Chijioke Nwobodo as their new traditional ruler.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Nwobodo served as DIG Zone 7, Abuja, comprising Kaduna, FCT and Niger States and also Fellow of the National Defence College (fdc).

Nwobodo replaced the late Igwe Emmanuel Nwachukwu who died nine years ago, and his coronation attracted members of the community, friends and well-wishers.

Crowning him on Saturday at the Girls High School Nenwe field, the Chairman, Coronation Planning Committee and Execution, Group Captain, Joseph Orji (Rtd), described the event as ‘historic and glorious’.

“Today, we witness history, a day that binds the proud heritage of our forefathers with the hopes and aspirations of a new generation.

“The coronation of Nwobodo is not merely a ceremony, it is a reaffirmation of our collective identity, a symbol of unity and renewal of our commitment to peace and development,” he said.

Orji added that the event reminded them that leadership, when rooted in wisdom and service, would become light that would guide the people forward.

“In Igwe Nwobodo, we see a leader molded by discipline, refined by experience, and driven by compassion.

“As a retired officer and fellow of the Defense College, he brings to the throne a wealth of knowledge, integrity, and an unwavering sense of duty.

“His record of service to humanity is unparalleled. His community stand as testament to a life dedicated to excellence and progress.

“His ascension to the throne is therefore, not only well-deserved but divinely ordained, a blessing to Uhueze Nenwe community and Aninri at large because the Royal Highness Is a leader of the people,” Orji said.

The planning committee chairman, however, called on the people of the community to support Nwobodo for him to succeed.

A member of the community and member of Igwe’s Council of Chiefs, Chief Sunday Esom, explained that the entire community selected Nwobodo as their traditional ruler and reiterated their commitment to support him.

In his acceptance speech, Nwobodo pledged to wear the crown with the fear of God and fully aware that true leadership was about service.

The royal father assured the community that his reign would bring peace, justice, and uphold their cultural heritage as the community was blessed with a proud history of discipline, learning, courage, and service to the nation.

“I stand as a custodian of this heritage committed to preserving these values and inspiring the next generation. We are crowned today at the time when Nigeria faces economic hardship, insecurity and declining trusts in leadership.

“Many families are under pressure and many young people are uncertain about the future, yet God said we should not lose hope.

“This throne shall remain a place of listening, dialogue, justice and reconciliation. It shall be without discrimination whether you supported me or not, I will not discriminate against you,” Nwobodo said.

He extended invitation to all the community members to unite and work together as one, promising to promote peace and safeguard the community by working with the community leaders and lawful authorities as well as promoting the dignity of women.

The event featured both cultural displays and merriment. (NAN)