Lead Counsel to Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Ifeanyi Ejiofor has been conferred with a chieftaincy title by Ezumeru community in Oraifite, Ekwusigo Local Government Area of Anambra State.
Ejiofor was honoured by Obi of Ezumeri-Oraifite, His Royal Majesty, Chief Michael Obaa together with a media guru, Sir Oseloka Offor and 26 other personalities for their outstanding contributions to the development of the area and the state in general.
Speaking during the Ezumeru General Mass Return at the Obi Ezumeru Palace, President, Ezumeru Progressive Union, Offor Obiora said the occasion, the first in over 10 years, was borne out of passion to exchange views towards progress and peaceful coexistence of the people.
He identified insecurity, infrastructural development and skill acquisition centre as among the challenges facing the town, urging members to pull resources together to tackling the problems and to develop the area.
He said, “The Mass Return ceremony is an opportunity to interact with one another as brothers and sisters and to discuss important issues that will bring peace and harmony among us for future development.
“You will recall we’re barely two years in office as elected executive charged with numerous functions which centred on development and peace among our subjects.
“Since then, we’ve been working tirelessly to make reasonable changes in the areas of security, conflict resolutions, peace among brothers and improvement of our cultural heritage.”
Also speaking, President General, Oraifite, Sir Vic Dike commended the Ezumeru leadership for packaging the event, which he described as remarkable, challenging other communities to emulate them.
“Ezumeru is just one quarter in Oraifite and for them to see the need to come together, underscores their values. That’s why I’m here to identify with them and I hope other quarters will emulate them.
“Just like any other society, we’re not immuned from Nigeria problems, youth unemployment, insecurity and other vices. But I urge everyone to be patient, whatever we can do for ourselves, we do and don’t wait for the government.
“I also advise the youths to shun illegal ventures but try to add value to the society, just as they expose any form of criminality in their area,” he added.
Responding to his recognition, Oseloka,
Director of Communications, Anglican Diocese on the Niger said his title, IYAA-ASALLE Of Oraifite was predicted on his service to his community and humanity.
He said, “My people appreciated the fact that over the years I’ve powered the wheel to serve them, placing selflessness, transperacy and accountability above personal interest in my dealings.
“For them, I remain a worthy ambassador with the IYAA-ASALLE title, meaning, “A Real Man With Noble Character Anchored On Right Values & Princely Posture Delivering Uncommon Services To His People Uncompromisingly .
“The title is a heavy one which someone has to shoulder. I’m ready to make a lot of sacrifices for my community and take her to the next level. I’ll ensure justice, equity and fairness in all spheres.”
Oseloka further revealed he was among those who controlled rulership of Onitsha kingdom, with the late Onowu under Igwe Ukagbue, pledging his readiness to replicate in Ezumeru what he did in other communities.
“I’ll send ripples that will invade homes with some lyrics. My message will be loud enough for people to hear. When we thunder and sneeze, others will catch cold,” he added.
The media general said the mass return event offered the people opportunity to push for the things that belonged to them, and to ensure youths were gainfully employed to assist in the development of the town.
Earlier, His Royal Majesty, Chief Michael Obaa prayed for God’s blessings on the people of his community, including long life, good health and prosperity.
“The mass return is a time for our people, both at home and diaspora to converge, unite, see themselves, have merriment and discuss way forward for our community.
“This year will witness award presentation and Chieftaincy titles and display of masquerades. We’ll raise funds for civic center and other developmental projects,” he added.
