UKWU-OBA/Nigeria: Ukwu-Oba Kingdom in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State on Thursday witnessed a historic transition as His Royal Majesty, Obi Cletus Nkeakam Ochei I, was formally presented with the Staff of Office by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, signaling the dawn of a new era of peace and development.
The colourful ceremony, attended by traditional rulers, government officials, and indigenes from across the state, was described as a milestone in the history of Ukwu-Oba, which recently transitioned from gerontocracy to a centralized monarchical system.
Governor Oborevwori, represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, congratulated the new monarch and commended the community for the maturity displayed during the selection process. He assured the people that his administration values traditional rulers as “custodians of culture, agents of unity, and partners in grassroots development.”
“Though there were challenges, the community has emerged stronger, more united, and ready to embrace peace and progress,” the Governor said, pledging his administration’s commitment to the MORE Agenda, which prioritises rural development, infrastructure, and inclusive governance. He stressed that no community would be left behind in his developmental drive.
Oborevwori urged the people of Ukwu-Oba to rally behind their monarch, stressing that traditional rulers can only succeed with the support, loyalty, and cooperation of their people.
Chairman of Aniocha South Local Government Area, Hon. Jude Chukwunwike, in his goodwill message, pledged the council’s support for the new Obi within available resources. He highlighted the significance of the community’s shift from the age-long Okpala-Uku system to a rotational monarchy between Umuezeli and Umuogba families, describing it as a bold step towards modernization and inclusiveness.
Earlier, the President General of Ukwu-Oba Development Association, Mr. Nwaebichi Mathias, appealed to the state government for infrastructural intervention to boost development in the agrarian community.
Traditional rulers from across Delta State graced the occasion, commending Ukwu-Oba for embracing change while reaffirming their commitment to peace and stability in their respective domains.
The highpoint of the ceremony was the symbolic presentation of the Staff of Office to HRM Obi Cletus Nkeakam Ochei I, amid cheers and jubilation from his subjects, marking his formal recognition as the monarch of Ukwu-Oba Kingdom.
