The Anambra State Governor has congratulated a royal Icon and the longest serving traditional Monarch, the King of Nnewi, His Royal Highness, Igwe Kenneth Onyeneke Orizu 111, as he celebrated his 59 years on the throne and his 97th birthday in Nnewi, Anambra State.
Professor Charles Soludo commended the monarch for his leadership qualities not just to Nnewi people but to the state and Nigerians, at large.
Governor Soludo noted that the industrial town of Nnewi is like an elephant with huge resources that could build the entire state.
He however expressed dismay over the level of infrastructural decay in the town, noting that his administration would address the issue of roads and other factors affecting the town.
“Nigerian and indeed African leaders have at one time or the other visited Nnewi because of her industrial prowess. The situation today has changed. My administration would ensure that the Nnewi’s lost glory is restored.
“I appeal to Ndi-Nnewi(Nnewi people) to close ranks and work together for the betterment of the town so that Nnewi can once again be called the Japan of Africa as was done in the past,” Governor Soludo stated.
In his sermon,the Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, Anglican Communion, Rt. Rev. Ndubuisi Chukwuka Obi admonished people to emulate the lifestyle of Igwe Dr. K. O. Orizu 111, which has epitomised him as gentleman with honour and respect in Nigeria.
“Igwe is a special gift to mankind,he is not only coming to church but very close to God and he demonstrates God’s Commandments.
This is the beginning of his journey to the celebration of his 100 years on mother earth with good health, “ Bishop Obi stated.
“I appeal to Ndi-Nnewi(Nnewi people) to close ranks and work together for the betterment of the town so that Nnewi can once again, be called the Japan of Africa as was done in the past.” Governor Soludo explained.
On the 2023 general elections, the prominent Nnewi monarch urged the candidates for all the political parties to embark on issue based campaign and avoid abusive languages which according to him may cause tension.
Igwe urged Nigerians to remain peaceful and prayerful in the face of the current economic crises and insecurity.
The Transition Committee (TC) Chairman for Nnewi North Local Goverment Area, Engineer Chris Obiora congratulated the monarch on his birthday and Ofala celebration.
Engineer Obiora pointed out that Nnewi is so blessed to have a charismatic leader as Igwe.He prayed for many years and sound health for the monarch.
The second day of the event has different types of masquerades from far and near and thousands of spectators with their families coming home for Christmas and New Year holidays.
The governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo paid him homeage with other dignitaries.
The presidential candidate for Labour Party (LP) Mr Peter Obi, in the 2023 general elections and other dignitaries attended the 2022 Igwe Nnewi’s Ofala and birthday celebrations.
Lateefah Ibrahim
