The Onye Ishi Etche, His Eminence Eze E.M.B Opurum, has coronated Simon Nnadozie Nwuzi as the new Paramount ruler of Okudu Mba in Etche Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The eventual installation of Chief Nwuzi as “Ochi Alili “, following his victory at the poll has laid to rest the issue of the occupant of the stool that became vacant at the exit of the former Paramount ruler, late Chief Michael Nwokoshole Oluoh.
The colourful coronation which took place at the palace of the Onye Ishi Etche, in Ndashi, witnessed attendance of traditional rulers, youths and women groups from the area as well as family members.
Speaking after the installation, Eze Opurum, who is the Chairman Etche Supreme Council of Traditional and Chiefs charged Chief Nwuzi to always make peace, justice and fairness his watchwords so as to last long on the throne.
The Onye Ishi Etche remarked that the selection of Nwuzi by his people shows the confidence and high level of trust reposed in him and urged him to always treat them with respect as he occupies the throne.
He stressed that the importance of peace in the communities cannot be over empasised and urged traditional rulers to do everything possible to ensure that peace reigns in all communities in Etcheland.
In his response, the newly installed Ochi Alili, Chief Nnadozie Nwuzi thanked the people for the confidence reposed in him and promised that he would not disappoint them. He said he would always project and protect their interest.
” I am overwhelmed by the enormous support my people gave me. My victory at the election was made possible by God Almighty whom I return all glory to. I will protect the interest of my community and treat each and every member fairly since, cheating and injustice breeds crisis,” he said.
He however advised the youths to shun cultism, violence and all forms of antisocial behaviours, noting that he would not compromise the issue of security.
Elder Philip Iroegbu who spoke on behalf of the community said the choice of Chief Nwuzi was based on his honesty and passion for the interest of the community. He assured that the community would support the new chief to succeed on the throne.
He stated that since Okudu is the traditional headquarters of Mba, there was every need to protect the custom and tradition of the people as shown in the choice of the new regent.
