The Igbo-Ukwu community in Augusta Local Government Area of Anambra State on August 31, 2024 marked the grand finale of Iri Ji festival at the National Yam House.
This year’s celebration which is the 20th edition of the annual event witnessed series of activities including award of Chieftaincy titles to deserving personalities in Igbo land.
One of the personalities recognized with “Udonechendo” of Igbo land title, Ikechukwu Emenike, an Isuofia-born politician and business man was among the few considered for the honour.
The Igwe of Igbo-Ukwu, His Royal Highness, Alexander Azike and his royal cabinet who honoured Chief Emenike and others said that Emenike deserved the Chieftaincy title considering his hard work and contributions to the upliftment of Igbo culture and tradition.
Chief Emenike was honoured with his wife Chioma who has transformed to his “Lolo” according to Igbo customs and tradition.
Chief Emenike in his acceptance speech thanked the Igwe and his cabinet members for considering him and his wife worthy for the honour.
He said his present status as the “Udonechendo” of Igbo land would spur him to do more for the development of society and upliftment of Igbo cultural heritage.
Chief Emenike is currently the Vice Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Auguata chapter. He is also the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Augustine A. Emenike Nigeria Limited.
He is a specialist in electrical installations, a licensed builder and electrical contractors of high repute.
Chief Emenike was former Chairman of Umueze Village 2010; Ist Vice President of Isuofia People’s Assembly 2017; Chairman electrical committee of the community and member, Isuofia peace committee.
While addressing journalists after receiving the title, Chief Emenike talked about the Anambra State local government elections fixed for September 28 and said that the date was not tenable.
He explained that he did not see the elections taking place that day, saying that there was tendency to have litigations to forestall the conduct of the elections.
He noted that Governor Charles Soludo wanted to take everyone by surprise and insisted that the electoral empire for the Council elections should be the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and not the Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission (ANSIEC).
The Iri Ji Ndigbo festival 2024 in Igbo-Ukwu community attracted many dignitaries from far and near.
One of the personalities was the Honourable Minister, Federal Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John whose address was read by his representative, among others.
