Ozo Ejiamatu, Iyom Enekwechi face the camera after their induction
From Isaac Ojo Awka
Ngodo Village in Nise, Awka South LGA of Anambra State recently became a beehive of activities as the Chairman of Anambra Patroits for Soludo(APS) Chief Damian Ejiamatu Enekwechi and his wife, Lady Ifeoma Enekwechi was inducted into Ozo and Iyom institutions respectively.
Chief Enekwechi was inducted into the ancient Ozo-Owulu of Nise Aniyi Kingdom, as well as taking of title Ozo Ejiamatu N’Anyi while his wife, Lady Ifeoma Enekwechi was also inducted into the prestigious Iyom (Out-Odu) Society as Iyom Ugwumsinachi.
The Chairman of Ozo Nise, Ichie Emeka Aghasili (Onwa Nise) who was speaking at the occasion described Ozo institution as one of the highest traditional institutions in Igbo land, reserved strictly for men of proven integrity, good character and legitimate means of livelihood.
He said as a matter of fact that, Chief Ejiamatu was found worthy, having demonstrated credibility and commitment to community service as well as continuing the legacy of his late father, who was also an Ozo title holder.
Similarly, the Deputy Speaker of Anambra State House of Assembly Hon. Chukwuma Okoye who was speaking during the initiation of the Enekwechis into Ozo and Iyom institutions respectively, has described the Ozo institution as an important Igbo heritage that must be preserved.
Also speaking, Convener of Anambra Patriots for Soludo (APS) and Chief Executive Officer(CEO) of Anambra State Bureau of Public Procurement, Arc. Okechukwu Ezeobi said the Ozo institution predated colonial governance.
He said the institution functions as a traditional parliamentary and judicial system where elders of integrity resolve community issues.
He emphasized the need to protect and sustain Igbo cultural institutions, describing Chief Ejiamatu as deserving of the honour.
Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning Mrs. Chiamaka Nnake, noted that Ozo title holders are people of exemplary character who have distinguished themselves over time.
She congratulated Ozo Ejiamatu and his wife, Iyom Enekwechi over their induction into the Ozo and Iyom institutions respectively even as she urgee them to remain role models in the society.
Iyom Enekwechi in a brief chat with journalists thanked God for a successful occasion even as she appreciated the Iyom Sisters Nise Kingdom for finding her worthy to be inducted.
In their separate remarks, Ozo Ejiamatu and his wife, Iyom Enekwechi expressed gratitude on the honour bestowed on them even as they thanked guests and well wishers for honouring the occasion and pledged to uphold the values of Ozo and Iyom institutions.
