Ezumeri sacks criminals as the lead counsel to Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Chief Ifeanyi Ejiofor was on Wednesday given a chieftaincy title by the community in Oraifite, Ekwusigo Local Government Area of Anambra State.
Chief Ejiofor was honoured by Obi of Ezumeri-Oraifite, Chief Michael Obaa together with a journalist, Sir Oseloka Offor and 26 other personalities for their outstanding contributions, according to the community, to the development of the area and the State in general.
Addressing the gathering during Ezumeru General Mass Return at the Obi Ezumeru Palace, President General, Ezumeru Progressive Union (EPU), Chief Offoh Obiora said the occasion, the first in over 10 years, was organized out of passion to exchange views towards progress and peaceful coexistence of the people.
Chief Obiora named insecurity, infrastructural development and skill acquisition centre as among the challenges facing the town. He appealed to members of the union to pull their resources together towards tackling the problems and to develop the area.
“The Mass Return ceremony is an opportunity to interact with one another as brothers and sisters and to discuss important issues that will bring peace and harmony among us for future development.
“You will recall we’re barely two years in office as elected executive charged with numerous functions which centred on development and peace among our subjects.
“No hiding place for criminals as people of Ezumeri Oraifite in Ekwusigo local govt join hands to smoke all bad elements in their area out of their holes.
Reports show that the community has become unattractive to criminals following the resolve of the Ezumeri Oraifite youths to make the place a no go area for bandits.
“This peaceful atmosphere was celebrated by the sons and daughters of the community who came home enmasse for the Christmas celebrations.
They organised a big event known as the Ezumeri Day 2023 to celebrate all those who have made outstanding contributions towards the socio-economic development of the Ezumeri Community, “he added.
The President General highlighted their efforts in the area of security , infrastructural development, youth empowerment , adding that the community is moving to new levels in everything.
“Since then, we’ve been working tirelessly to make reasonable changes in the areas of security, conflict resolutions, peace among brothers and improvement of our cultural heritage, “he said.
Also speaking, President General, Oraifite, Sir Vic Dike commended the Ezumeru leadership for packaging the event, which he described as remarkable, challenging other communities to emulate them.
“Ezumeru is just one quarter in Oraifite and for them to see the need to come together, underscores their values. That’s why I’m here to identify with them and I hope other quarters will emulate them.
“Just like any other society, we’re not immuned from Nigeria problems, youth unemployment, insecurity and other vices. But I urge everyone to be patient, whatever we can do for ourselves, we do and don’t wait for the government.
“I also advise the youths to shun illegal ventures but try to add value to the society, just as they expose any form of criminality in their area,” he added.
Responding to his recognition, Oseloka, the Director of Communications, Anglican Diocese on the Niger said his title, IYAA-ASALLE of Oraifite was predicted on his service to his community and humanity.
He said: “My people appreciated the fact that over the years I’ve powered the wheel to serve them, placing selflessness, transparency and accountability above personal interest in my dealings.
“For them, I remain a worthy ambassador with the IYAA-ASALLE title, meaning, a real man with noble character anchored on right values and princely posture delivering uncommon services to his people without compromise.
“The title is a heavy one which someone has to shoulder. I’m ready to make a lot of sacrifices for my community and take it to the next level. I’ll ensure justice, equity and fairness in all spheres, “he said.
Oseloka further revealed he was among those who controlled rulership of Onitsha kingdom, with the late Onowu under Igwe Ukagbue, pledging his readiness to replicate in Ezumeru what he did in other communities.
“I’ll send ripples that will invade homes with some lyrics. My message will be loud enough for people to hear. When we thunder and sneeze, others will catch cold,” he added.
The media professional said the mass return event offered the people opportunity to push for the things that belonged to them, and to ensure youths were gainfully employed to assist in the development of the town.
Earlier, Chief Obaa prayed for God’s blessings on the people of his community, including long life, good health and prosperity.
“The mass return is a time for our people, both at home and diaspora to converge, unite, see themselves, have merriment and discuss way forward for our community.
The community on the occasion raised funds for civic center and other developmental projects.
Picture: 1. Chiefs of the community.
