Soludo Visits Awka Monarch, Calls For Peace, Unity At Imo Awka Festival

|By Ejike Abana (ABS Government House Correspondent)

Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has called for sustained peace, unity and infrastructural development in Awka, as he paid a solidarity visit to the traditional ruler of Awka, His Majesty, Obi Gibson Nwosu, during the annual Imo Awka festival.

Governor Soludo, who became the first sitting governor to pay homage to the Awka monarch during the cultural celebration, stressed the importance of unity in traditional governance. 

He noted that, according to Igbo tradition, it is an abomination for a single community to recognise two kings.

Addressing a gathering that included the Prime Minister of Awka, the President-General of the town union, the Ọzọ Awka society and other stakeholders, the Governor declared that peace has been restored in Awka, the state capital.

Describing himself as a “man of peace,” Governor Soludo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the rebuilding and transformation of Awka. He also announced plans to construct a modern central palace that would serve the community for generations, urging residents to partner with government in achieving the vision.

On the religious aspect of the festival, the Governor said Anambra State promotes freedom of worship and supports all faiths, adding that traditionalists and Christians are free to observe their respective practices in harmony.

He commended community leaders, including the President-General of Awka, Chief Fred Chinwuba, and the Traditional Prime Minister of Awka, Engineer Benjamin Okoye, for ensuring a peaceful celebration without security incidents.

In their remarks, the Awka community leaders expressed appreciation to the Governor for his peace initiatives and development projects, particularly within Awka, and pledged continued support for his administration.