By Mokobia Rita
AKWUKWU-IGBO/Nigeria: Mr. Alexander Mokobia, the Oniha of one of the nine quarters in Akwakwu Igbo, Ogbe-Onihe, has marked his first year on the throne with a message of gratitude and renewed commitment, as residents and stakeholders reflect on a year many describe as a period of stability, cultural revival, and growing unity within the community.
One year after his ascension to the revered traditional stool, Mokobia’s leadership has been shaped by deliberate efforts to strengthen communal harmony, reinforce traditional institutions, and lay the groundwork for sustainable development through inclusive engagement.
In his anniversary remarks, the monarch expressed deep appreciation to elders, youths, and residents for their unwavering support, noting that the journey so far has been both demanding and fulfilling.
“Leadership is not about the throne alone; it is about service to the people,” he said. “Over the past year, we have worked together to promote unity among our people and ensure that our community continues to move forward.”
Within the period under review, the Oniha prioritised dialogue and reconciliation, encouraging peaceful coexistence across families and community groups through sustained consultations with elders and opinion leaders.
His administration has also been credited with revitalising cultural heritage, as traditional festivals, community engagements, and cultural awareness initiatives gained renewed prominence, reinforcing the identity and pride of the Akwukwu-Igbo people.
Youth development has remained a central focus, with the monarch advocating greater participation of young people in community affairs, while promoting values of education, discipline, and entrepreneurship as pathways to a stronger future.
Reflecting personally on his journey, Mokobia said he never anticipated becoming the Oniha, urging members of the community to remain upright and truthful in their dealings.
Commendations have continued to trail his leadership, with stakeholders acknowledging the relative peace and cohesion recorded within the community since his ascension.
In goodwill messages, Mr. Jonathan Mokobia praised the monarch’s impact, noting that the community has not recorded any death since his installation, which he described as a testament to divine favour and stable leadership.
Similarly, Mr. Indinwa Samuel described the Oniha as a focused and peace-loving leader, expressing confidence that his reign would take the community to greater heights.
Observers within the kingdom say the past year has witnessed strengthened bonds among various segments of the community, fostering a sense of collective responsibility and shared vision for development.
Looking ahead, the Oniha reaffirmed his commitment to deepening partnerships with government agencies, development organisations, and community groups to accelerate infrastructural growth and improve social wellbeing.
He also called on indigenes at home and in the diaspora to sustain their support for initiatives aimed at advancing the welfare of the people and preserving the core values of the kingdom.
As he begins his second year on the throne, Mokobia expressed optimism that Akwukwu-Igbo is on a steady path toward greater unity, progress, and prosperity.
