- The governor said the Ofo symbol carried profound meaning beyond its physical appearance
- He said the honour symbolised confidence in Mbah’s leadership
- He also congratulated Igwe Nwatu on his golden jubilee on the throne, describing the monarch’s 50-year reign as evidence of divine favour
Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, has pledged to sustain a leadership style anchored on integrity, humility and dedicated service to the people of Nkanu land and the wider Enugu State.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the governor made the commitment on Friday while attending the 50th coronation anniversary of the traditional ruler of Ihuokpara in Nkanu East Local Government Area, His Royal Majesty, Igwe Fidelis Nwatu.
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During the ceremony, Governor Mbah expressed deep appreciation to Igwe Nwatu and other traditional rulers of Nkanu land for honouring him with the presentation of the Ofo staff, a revered Igbo symbol representing authority, truth and justice. He described the gesture as a powerful endorsement rooted in culture and ancestral trust.
The governor said the Ofo symbol carried profound meaning beyond its physical appearance, noting that traditional rulers serve as custodians of ancestral values and channels through which the will of the forebears is expressed. According to him, receiving such an honour from his own people placed a heavy responsibility on his shoulders.
Mbah assured the elders and the entire Enugu populace that the endorsement would further strengthen his resolve to serve with sincerity and commitment, stressing that their confidence in his leadership would not be misplaced.
He also congratulated Igwe Nwatu on his golden jubilee on the throne, describing the monarch’s 50-year reign as evidence of divine favour, ancestral approval and consistent service to his people and Igbo land.
Speaking on welfare, the governor announced that the state government had prioritised improved remuneration for traditional rulers in its current budget. He disclosed that from January 2026, royal fathers across the state would experience a significant upgrade in their welfare packages.
Mbah explained that traditional institutions remain the backbone of cultural identity, history and communal stability, adding that his administration was committed to strengthening the system that preserves these values.
Earlier, while presenting the Ofo staff on behalf of the royal fathers, Igwe Nwatu praised the governor’s performance, citing visible development projects and governance reforms. He said the honour symbolised confidence in Mbah’s leadership and encouragement to continue delivering dividends of democracy.
The celebration also featured the unveiling of Igwe Nwatu’s book titled “Leadership as Service: A Portrait of Stewardship, Justice and Peace,” as well as the cutting of the golden jubilee cake, witnessed by the governor and other dignitaries.
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