By Emmanuel Tobechukwu Aniagoh
The ancient town of Okpuno in Awka South LGA of Anambra State was agog over the weekend when Hon. Emeka Igwe, the renowned philanthropist added another feather to his cap as he was conferred by the paramount ruler of the kingdom, HRM Igwe Engr. S. I Okafor, Igwe Ogene Okpuno, with the Chieftaincy title – ETO O DIKE NA OKPUNO.
The ceremony which took place at the monarch’s palace was performed with pomp and pageantry as dignitaries from all walks of life includng; Government Functionaries, APGA Stakeholders, TeamVIE, prominent sons and daughters of Awka South LGA, Family, Friends and Well Wishers were on hand to support the technocrat and add glamour to the occasion.
Conferring the Chieftaincy title on the leading aspirant for State House of Assembly, Awka South Constituency A, Igwe Okafor stated that the honour was in recognition of Emeka Igwe’s unrepentant love for the people of Okpuno and his avowed resolved to always stand on the path of empathy , thereby earning himself a pride of place in the community and Anambra State at large.
He described Igwe as a tree planted by the river side that bears good fruits, pointing out his service to God and humanity is unquantifiable.
Prince Emmanuel Obinna Ndigwe, a philanropist, pointed out that Hon. Emeka Igwe’s character has been unquestionable and he does not have not any baggage of corruption. He added that Nnayelugo Na Awka has attended greatness with high moral standing, adding that he deserves more great honours.
Responding, Eto O Dike Na Okpuno thanked the traditional ruler and promised to be a good ambassador of the people, adding that she was elated by the honour done to him.
“I am highly delighted for the honour done to me. I have maintained flourishing relationship with ndi Okpuno, not just as friends, but as brothers. ”
“Everything that concerns Okpuno concerns me. So, for me, Okpuno is a home to me. When you cry, I will cry; when you laugh, I laugh, your course will be my course. I will ever remain grateful to God for preparing us as partners in progress. ”
Dignitaries who came to felicitate with Igwe on his conferment includes, in no particular order; Uche Nworah, MD Anambra Broadcasting Service; Hillary Obigwe, Accountant General, Obi Adaida, Agulu Awka Youth Leader; Emeka Okonkwo; Norbert Obi, APGA State Chairman, Chineye Ibenta; Barr. Udeoba Obiora, Awka South LG Party Chairman; Dr Joe Akabuike, Commissioner for hlHealth, Hon. Uche Okafor, Commissioner for Transportation; Ken Mmaduakor, PG Ihiala; Prof Solo chukwulobelu SSG; Hon. Primus Odili, Chief of Staff; Chief Chinedu obidigwe; Leo Nwoba, Awka South LG Chairman; Crown prince of Enugwu Ukwu; Bonaventure Enemali, Commissioner for Youth Development and Creative Economy; amongst others.
Hon. Emeka Igwe later treat guests and invited dignitaries to a well prepared and arranged entertainment at his resident, No 6 Chief Gabriel Igwe Street, Amiwko, Awka.