The Umuahia North Council of Traditional Rulers, has conferred the title of ‘Kpakpando Umuahia Gburugburu’ on High Chief Victor Chiedozie Ikeji.
High Chief Victor Ikeji(Kpakpando Ohuhu)
The conferment which was done at the Umuahia North Council Headquarters, was part of the celebration to mark the first Iwa ji festival of the two clans that make up Umuahia North Local Government Area, Ibeku and Ohuhu.
In an interview with the press, High Chief Ikeji, who is also the Kpakpando Ohuhu, said the new feather to his cap came as a result of his selfless service to his people, stating that with the new chieftaincy conferment as the ‘Kpakpando Umuahia Gburugburu’, he would continue to support the progress and development of Umuahia, because to whom much is given,much is expected.
Speaking on the numerous recognitions done on him in recent time, High Chief Ikeji, revealed that when a people or community decides to honour an individual back to back, it simply means there are qualities that are endearing about that particular individual.This, he maintained is his case, as he has received over four chieftaincy titles from within Umuahia and over four from outside Umuahia.
“This is not a new terrain for me. Am familiar with these titles,but the most cherished is the one given to me by my Autonomous community.It is not a thing to be taken for granted”, he stated.
“Though nothing very special i will say has brought these titles to me. One thing i know for sure is that am sold out to service to my people.That is my calling. Whichever way i can bring succour to my people, i do not hesitate. I always avail myself when the need arises”.
Ikeji, however, dedicated the new title to the people of Umuahia in general, stating that its a call for more service.
The Occasion further witnessed the recognition of other sons of Ibeku and Ohuhu land, who have contributed immensely to the growth of Umuahia.
Among other Awardees and Title Recipients were the Director General,World Trade Organization, Dr Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, the Speaker of Abia state House of Assembly, Rt.Hon Chinedum Orji, the former ABSIEC Chairman, Justice Igbozuruike Akomas, the Commissioner for Finance, Dr Aham Uko, the Immediate past Commissioner for Lands and Survey, Barr Suleiman Ukandu.
Recall that the ‘Iwaji’ festival is an annual ceremony across Igbo land that is very strategic to the life and existence of the igbo race.It takes a direct bearing and cultural significance from the Christian faith and affords one the opportunity to render thanks to the Almighty God for a bountiful harvest of the chief crop the Yam( Ji).
The ‘Iwaji’ ceremony is also a time to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Ndi Igbo and as well, chat a fresh course for developmental strides in various communities.
