Soludo, Ezeokafor, Monarchs Celebrate Igwe Gibson Nwosu at 90

Traditional Ruler of Awka Kingdom, Obi Gibson Nwosu being congratulated by the Catholic Bishop of Awka Rost Rev Dr Paulinius Ezeokafor

Governor  of Anambra State Prof Charles Soludo, the  State Traditional Rulers Council, and other dignitaries have celebrated the Traditional Ruler of Awka Kingdom, Obi Gibson Nwosu, on the occasion of his 90th birthday.

The celebration comes amid reaffirmation by the Anambra State Government of Obi Gibson Nwosu as the legitimate monarch of the ancient Awka Kingdom, a position strongly supported by the Awka Ruling Council and the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Paulinus Ezeokafor.

In a tribute marking the milestone, Governor Soludo described Obi Gibson Nwosu as a quintessential monarch, a symbol of peace, and a custodian of the rich cultural heritage of the Awka people. 

He noted that attaining the nonagenarian milestone is a profound blessing from God and a testament to a life lived with purpose, discipline, and dedication to the service of humanity.

The Governor further acknowledged the Eze Uzu II’s distinguished career prior to his ascension to the throne, particularly his service as a pioneer aviator, which brought immense pride to the nation. 

He prayed for Almighty God to continue to grant the monarch good health, renewed strength, and enduring wisdom to lead his people.

Speaking on behalf of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council, the Traditional Ruler of Nibo, Igwe Chukwuemeka Ngege, stated:

“As a matter of fact, Igwe Gibson Nwosu is a personal friend. I became a Traditional Ruler before him, and when he ascended the throne of Awka, I welcomed him. We, his fellow Traditional Rulers, wish him well and congratulate him on attaining the age of 90.”

A prominent real estate developer and son of Awka Kingdom, Clem Nwogbo, also expressed his admiration:

“We celebrate with him, and the entire Awka people are happy. This is a significant milestone for both him and the Awka Kingdom. By God’s grace, we hope to gather again to celebrate his centenary in the next ten years.

We are very thankful to the Anambra State Government for taking this decisive stand on the Awka monarchy, which has finally laid to rest this unnecessary controversy. Facts remain facts, and truth remains truth. We salute the government for its boldness and firmness. The Governor has spoken what we all know to be the truth, and we hope everyone in Awka will accept this so that we can move forward and make progress.”

The Traditional Prime Minister (Onowu) of Awka Kingdom, Benjamin Okoye, strongly dismissed rival claims to the throne:

“As you can see, Awka has only one king—no more, no less. Anyone else laying claim to the throne is an impostor. They make noise on social media but have no legitimacy on the ground.

As the Onowu of Awka, it is within my authority and office to identify the rightful Traditional Ruler of Awka.”he said.

The monarch’s first daughter, Mamina Nwosu, described her father as a remarkable man:

“My father is a very humorous man with a great sense of humor. 

He is a great father who always emphasized that ‘Nwanyi bu Nwa’—meaning that the girl child is just as valuable.

 We have always drawn inspiration from him.”she added.

Chairman of the Central Planning Committee for the celebration, Audu Nonyelu, emphasized the clarity of the traditional leadership structure:

“This is not in dispute. You cannot have two traditional rulers in one town. Awka has only one Traditional Ruler. The public should not allow themselves to be misled by individuals who falsely claim to be the Eze Uzu of Awka Kingdom.”he said.

In his remarks, Bishop Paulinus Ezeokafor commended Governor Soludo for decisively addressing the lingering dispute:

“We thank the State Government for taking that bold step to clear the air on the Eze Uzu tussle. It is the government that recognizes and determines the head of the traditional institution.

The government is in charge of all, whether Christian or Traditionalist. This undue tension is not good for our society or for posterity. A society without peace cannot progress.” he stated.