The Honourable Member representing Ukwa West and Ukwa East Federal Constituency, Hon. Chief Chris Nkwonta, has extended his congratulations to HRH Eze Chinyeaka Gbarasi-Nwuzor, the newly elected Traditional Ruler of Umuihueze-Akwete Autonomous Community, following his official presentation of staff of office by the Abia State Government. Eze Gbarasi-Nwuzor becomes the ONYENWEALA (VIII) of Umuihueze-Akwete after the community had been without a monarch for 44 years.
The previous ruler, HRM Eze Trueman Akpara, passed away in 1980, leading to decades of leadership crises, legal battles, and misunderstandings within the community. After years of conflict, a committee led by Hon. Uzoma Nkem Abonta recommended a rotational system for the Ezeship, which culminated in the peaceful election of the new monarch.
During a courtesy visit to Eze Gbarasi-Nwuzor’s palace, Hon. Nkwonta praised the monarch as a reputable figure committed to development and social harmony. He expressed his pride in witnessing the resolution of the leadership crisis and commended the community for restoring peace after over two decades of turmoil.
Nkwonta reaffirmed his commitment to effective representation for the Ukwa West/Ukwa East Federal Constituency, focusing on people-centered development. The new monarch, who is also a successful entrepreneur and Managing Director of Dancosta Oil & Gas, was elected unanimously by community delegates, known as Mbichiri Ezi, in accordance with local tradition.
In his remarks, Eze Gbarasi-Nwuzor expressed gratitude to the community for electing him and promised to work diligently to foster development and maintain peace. He also praised Hon. Nkwonta for his support and contributions to his emergence as monarch and the peace efforts in the community.
The monarch extended an olive branch to his former opponents, inviting them to join him in advancing the community’s progress. He also thanked the Abia State Government for conducting a fair plebiscite and for presenting him with the staff of office promptly.
The royal visit concluded with Hon. Nkwonta being honored with the prestigious Akwete cloth and other gifts by the traditional ruler and community elders.
