Indigenes of Nnewi, Anambra State, resident in Abuja at the weekend described 96 year-old Igwe (Dr) K.O.N. Orizu III, as a peaceful man who has presided over the transformation of the ancient kingdom into a thriving industrial hub.
Speaking at a reception organized in honour of the Igwe Nnewi, who is on a visit to the nation’s capital, they praised him for the role he has played in the development of the communities making up the kingdom.
The traditional ruler has been on the throne for over 50 years.
Speaking during the reception, lawmaker representing Nnewi South, Nnewi North and Ekwusigo Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Chris Azubogu, said the monarch has done a lot for the people.
According to him, “the Igwe means a lot to Nnewi people, Anambrarians, and the Igbo nation in general. Today, I can say he is one of the oldest reigning kings in Africa. He was enthroned in 1963 meaning that he has spent 58 years on the throne.
“In that length of time, Nnewi as a kingdom has experienced tremendous growth. Despite the civil war that ended 50 years ago, Nnewi has experienced tremendous growth especially industrially and academically under his royal guidance”.
He noted that even at his age, the Igwe continues to work for the people, adding that “he is very industrious, articulate and calm. He is a wonderful gift to us and that is why we are celebrating him today”.
On his part, the President General of Nnewi Community in Abuja, Ude Ikeotuonye described the monarch as a leader who has guided his people wisely.
He noted that Igwe has over the years taken care of issues affecting the kingdom and its people, stressing that “through his reign, for as long as he has been there, Nnewi has really moved on. I don’t want to blow our trumpet but we all know the position of Nnewi as regards the economy of this country”.
On his part, a retired Director at the Supreme Court and an indigene of Nnewi, Chris Unuigwe said the Igwe has done very well in areas of maintaining peace and security in the kingdom.
“He has led Nnewi very well and he leads by example. That is why we call him ‘Igwe na eje uka’. We respect him a lot. At 96, he has done
Also speaking, Afam Osigwe, SAN, an indigene of Nnewi said the reign of Igwe Orisu III has brought prosperity and peace to the area.
“He has fostered unity among the people and has ensured that disputes affecting the indigenes of the town and those who live and carry on business in the town are amicably settled. We have not had any communal strife or crisis that needed the intervention of the police or the army in the area”, he added.
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