The emergence of Prof Iheanacho, a lecturer in the Department of Economics, at the Abia State University (ABSU) as the Eze-elect of Umuakaliukwu autonomous community in Owerri North Local Government Area, of Imo state, Saturday, February 22, was trailed by resounding ovations as indigenes and residents of the area who recalled his philanthropic disposition and selfless services jubilated..
Prof Iheanacho’s emerged followed a delegate election conducted at the Okwu Emeka hall, where out of a total of twenty five votes cast, Prof Iheanacho secured 21 votes while his co-contestant Nwaneri, who is also his kinsman from Akalovo, Emekuku secured 4 votes.
It was gathered that, sequel to the demise of their former traditional ruler, His Royal Highness, Eze Cyril Chukwuemeka Njoku about a year ago, completion of mourning period and all necessary rites Akalovo village whose turn it is to produce the next traditional ruler of the community, was told to screen and present two candidates to the community for a delegate election, in line with the rotatory arrangement enshrined in their constitution.
Responding to questions from journalists after his emergence as Eze-elect, Prof Iheanacho in an emotion-laden voice said, “this is one of the best days of my life. I am overwhelmed with the outstanding show of love from members of the community.
I started with them from the Nkwo Emeke market project before I became a lecturer in the university and I have continued with them since then. As I speak to you, I have empowered over 32 youths who are studying different courses in the university under my scholarship program. I also intend to empower some young men who are currently doing nothing to enable them engage in meaningful ventures and contribute their own quota to the socio-economic development of the community”.
He commended his co-contestant for exhibiting the spirit of sportsmanship and promised to work with him towards enhancing the fortunes of the community and her people who he said deserve the best.
The Regent of the community, Chief Nze Herbert Chikiwe, who filled the gap after the death of the former traditional ruler expressed satisfaction with the peaceful and transparent conduct of the election, adding that the Eze-elect will be formally presented to the community in no distant time.
Nze Chikwe urged the newly elected Eze-elect to continue rendering selfless services to the community, while also upholding the virtues of equity, justice and fairness that he is known for.
He advised some of those who are still holding divergent opinions to retrace their steps and join the band wagon. He also stressed the need for peace, unity and mutual co-existence in the entire community.
Also responding to questions from newsmen, the President General of the community Hon A.C. Nwaforo stated that the delegate model of election is in tandem with the community’s constitution.
According to him, “the two contestants are from Akalovo village from where they were shortlisted after an internal screening and selection process that preceeded the all-encompassing delegate election. This method removes unnecessary rivalry, in addition to nipping rancour and acrimoiny that arise from post election squabbles in the bud”.
When contacted for comments after the election, the co-contestant Maxwell Njere, expressed satisfaction with the outcome. He described the election as free and fair and congratulated the winner, Prof Iheanacho, who he said is his brother and age mate from the same village. He promised to work with him for the good of the community and her people.
The election was witnessed by officials of the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Owerri North Local Government Area, the Nigeria Police and the Department of State Security (DSS).
