Another traditional ruler, a Professor clears petitions hurdle, gets Imo State government recognition

Another traditional ruler, a Professor clears petitions hurdle, gets Imo State government recognition

The Imo State government on Saturday, April 5, 2025 recognised Prof. Eugene Iheanacho as the traditional ruler of Umuakalukwu Emekukwu community.

Handing over the symbolic Staff of Office at the Government House Owerri,  Governor Hope Uzodimma congratulated  Prof Iheanacho for the confidence reposed on him by his people; and the Town Union for the orderly and peaceful conduct that helped in his emergence.

The Governor explained that the delay in recognising Prof. Iheanacho when other monarchs were given Staff of Office recently was to allow government to thoroughly investigate all allegations and petitions arising from the community.

 Uzodimma reiterated that government does not appoint traditional rulers, but only recognises the person so chosen by the community.

He advised Prof Iheanacho to show loyalty and commitment to his community and ensure that all aggrieved parties are reconciled and united.

“In this case, your community has chosen you to be their traditional ruler. Your loyalty and commitment is to your community. Government will work with you to provide and serve members of your community better with the fear of God,” the Governor concluded.

HRH Eze Prof.  Eugene Iheanacho expressed appreciation to the Imo State government and the people of Umuakalukwu for the honour done him.

He extolled Governor Uzodimma for his simplicity and humility, and pledged to rebuild the village market as a mark of honour  to his community  and to portray  the beauty of the modesty exhibited by the Governor.

“When I go home, what I’m going to do is speedily rebuild the rural market where the market women stay, and will be able to imitate you for all to see the beauty in your governance,” he remarked.

Present at the occasion were the Commissioners for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mrs.  Ruby Emele,  Information, Public Orientation and Strategy, Hon. Declan Emelumba, Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice,  Sir C. O. C Akolisa, the Principal Secretary to the Governor, Dr. (Mrs.) Irene Chima, among other members of the Imo State Expanded Executive Council.