Chinedum Elekwachi
Deputy Speaker, Anambra State House of Assembly, Hon. Chukwuma Okoye has described the Ozo institution as an important Igbo heritage that must be preserved.
Okoye stated this in Ngodo village, Nise in Awka South Local Government Area during the initiation of Chief Ejiamatu Damian Enekwechi into the ancient Ozo-Owulu of Nise Aniyi Kingdom, as well as taking of title Ozo Ejiamatu N’Anyi.
The event also saw the induction of his wife, Lady Ifeoma Enekwechi into the prestigious Iyom (Otu-Odu) Society as Iyom Ugwumsinachi.
The Deputy Speaker, representing Awka South II constituency noted that Ozo title holders command respect and authority in their communities and are truth tellers at all times.
Chairman of Ozo Nise Ichie Emeka Aghasili (Onwa Nise) described the ozo title as one of the highest traditional institutions in Igbo land, reserved strictly for men of proven integrity, good character and legitimate means of livelihood.
“Ozo title holders are custodians of truth and justice in the community, often called upon to resolve disputes and give fair judgments.
“Candidates undergo thorough screening before initiation,” he said.
Genuine wealth
He noted that wealth through genuine means is important for an Ozo holder to remain independent and incorruptible.
Aghasili maintained that the title is not for people of questionable character.
“Chief Ejiamatu has demonstrated credibility and commitment to community service and the legacy of his late father, also an Ozo title holder.”
Chief Executive Officer of Anambra State Bureau of Public Procurement, Mr Okechukwu Ezeobi said the Ozo institution predated colonial governance.
He said the institution functions as a traditional parliamentary and judicial system where elders of integrity resolve community issues.
He emphasized the need to protect and sustain Igbo cultural institutions, describing Chief Ejiamatu as deserving of the honour.
Commissioner for budget and Economic Planning Mrs. Chiamaka Nnake, noted that Ozo title holders are distinguished people of exemplary character.
She congratulated Ozo Ejiamatu, urging him to remain a role model in the society.
Iyom Sisters
Leader of Iyom Sisters Nise Kingdom, Iyom Kate Oguocha, spoke on the conferment of Iyom title on Lady Ifeoma Enekwechi.
She explained that the title – highest women traditional institution in Nise, built on truth, discipline, peace-making and moral uprightness.
She maintained that the induction of Lady Enekwechi signified her good conduct and acceptance by the people of Nise.
Responding, Chief Ejiamatu Damian Enekwechi, the State Chairman of Anambra Patriots for Soludo expressed gratitude on the honour.
He noted that the title comes with greater responsibility while truth and community service must always take priority over personal interest.
He thanked guests and well-wishers for honouring the occasion and pledged to uphold the values of Ozo institution.
The ceremony underscored enduring relevance of Igbo traditional institutions as pillars of morality, justice and grassroots governance in contemporary society.
It attracted traditional rulers, political leaders, community stakeholders, family members and friends from within and outside Nise Kingdom.
