As Igwe Uyanwa marks 10 years on the throne

It was a historic display of cultural pride and royal grandeur on September 18, as His Royal Majesty, Igwe Peter A. Uyanwa (Ezedike of Ukwulu Kingdom), celebrated a decade on the throne of his forefathers alongside the annual New Yam Festival (Iwa Ji).

The dual milestone brought together a star-studded gathering of traditional leaders, captains of industry, political figures, and cultural custodians, headlined by the Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, who presided as Chairman of the Occasion.

A central highlight of the festivities was the conferment of the prestigious chieftaincy title Akusinachi Gburugburu on Anambra-born industrialist, High Chief Anthony Ikenna Obele (Okwunze Aguata, Chairman of Mekens Integrated Nigeria Ltd). The title recognises Obele’s extensive philanthropic works, social interventions, and contributions to infrastructure and human development across Nigeria.

The presentation of the official chieftaincy certificate was performed jointly by the traditional ruler of Onitsha, His Majesty Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe (Obi of Onitsha), and Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, underscoring the deep unity among Igbo traditional institutions.

Blessing the newly inducted chief, Igwe Peter Uyanwa invoked the protection of the ancestors: “We are placing upon you the bangle of blessings, of wealth, and of protection. In the days of calamity, the gods of the land and our forefathers shall protect you and your family across Eke, Orie, Afor, and Nkwo.”

Speaking at the event, His Royal Majesty Igwe Mac-Anthony Okonkwo, traditional ruler of Alor Kingdom, lauded the honour bestowed upon Obele, calling it a well-deserved recognition of a selfless leader.

“I am highly delighted because Okwunze Aguata is a very good friend of mine,” Igwe Mac-Anthony remarked. “The Akusinachi Gburugburu title is a fitting tribute to a man who has built roads in Ezinifite and Ogbaru, constructed homes for indigent families, awarded scholarships, and continuously lifted communities beyond Anambra State.”

The celebration featured a rich showcase of Igbo heritage, including masquerade displays, traditional dances, and live performances by renowned indigenous artists, including Amb. Chinyere Udoma, Theresa Onuorah, and Dr. Aro Nwateje.

Despite a heavy downpour during the proceedings, the atmosphere remained vibrant, with attendees embracing the rain as a sign of divine blessing on the harvest season and Igwe Uyanwa’s ongoing decade of stewardship.

Prominent dignitaries in attendance include: former Governor of Anambra State, Sen. Chris Ngige, Obi of Onitsha, His Majesty Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, Chairman, United Nigeria Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, and
Traditional Ruler of Alor Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Igwe Mac-Anthony Okonkwo.

For the people of Ukwulu, the combined celebrations marked not only ten years of Igwe Uyanwa’s reign and a bountiful harvest season, but also a renewed commitment to preserving Igbo culture, fostering communal unity, and honouring leaders dedicated to upliftment.