Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, and former Senator Florence Ita-Giwa have paid glowing tributes to the Obi of Onitsha, His Majesty Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Ugochukwu, describing him as a symbol of peace, integrity, humility, and exemplary traditional leadership.
The dignitaries spoke on Friday during the monarch’s 85th birthday celebration held in Victoria Island, Lagos, where they reflected on his remarkable contributions to nation-building, his decades of service, and his role in promoting unity across Nigeria.
Former President Obasanjo recalled his long-standing relationship with the revered monarch, noting that although the monarch’s ascension to the throne was once met with opposition from some quarters, history has vindicated his leadership.
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According to Obasanjo, the Obi of Onitsha has consistently demonstrated exceptional qualities of peace and reconciliation.
“You have manifested boldly to me that you are a man of peace and a peacemaker,” Obasanjo said.
The former president revealed that traditional rulers from every part of the country, including the North, South, East, and West, hold the Obi of Onitsha in high esteem for his leadership style and commitment to national unity.
He also praised the monarch’s willingness to participate whenever called upon to contribute to national development.
Obasanjo equally commended Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for attending the event despite his demanding political schedule ahead of the Ekiti governorship election.
He described the governor’s presence as “a great sacrifice” and appreciated him for honouring the monarch.
Speaking lightheartedly about his age, Obasanjo expressed confidence that he would continue to celebrate future milestones with the monarch.
“I am still going strong. I will be there when you are 90, 95 and even 100 years old,” he said.
Governor Sanwo-Olu described the Obi of Onitsha as a man of destiny whose life has redefined the institution of traditional leadership through humility, wisdom, and service.
The governor noted that the celebration marked not only the monarch’s 85th birthday but also more than two decades on the throne, as both milestones coincided.
Sanwo-Olu commended the monarch for decades of distinguished service to Nigeria in various capacities, saying many people remain unaware of the enormous contributions he has made to national development.
He recounted learning about the monarch’s humble upbringing, including how he reportedly sold firewood to finance his education, describing the story as an inspiration to younger generations.
The governor further praised the Obi of Onitsha’s ability to foster peace, bridge divides, and unite people across ethnic, political, and religious lines.
He prayed for continued strength, good health, and many more years of impactful leadership for the traditional ruler.
Former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi described himself as one of the happiest people at the celebration, saying he was determined to attend despite travel delays because he considers the monarch a father figure.
Peter Obi recalled working closely with the traditional ruler during his tenure as governor, when the Obi of Onitsha served as Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council.
He narrated how some people had advised him against appointing respected senior traditional rulers into leadership positions, warning that they would challenge his administration.
Contrary to those fears, Obi said their honest counsel strengthened governance rather than weakened it.
“They caused me trouble because they always told me the truth,” he said, noting that their sincere advice made a significant difference in the administration of the state.
He thanked the monarch for his unwavering support and prayed for God’s continued blessings upon him.
Former Senator Florence Ita-Giwa described the Obi of Onitsha as one of Nigeria’s most respected and revered traditional rulers.
She said the monarch did not acquire greatness after ascending the throne but came into the position with an impressive pedigree that prepared him for leadership.
Ita-Giwa praised his resilience in preserving the dignity of the throne despite the challenges associated with traditional institutions.
She added that, if given the opportunity, she would gladly dedicate herself to serving in the monarch’s kingdom out of respect for his leadership.
The former senator prayed for the monarch to enjoy many more fruitful years on the throne.
Responding to the tributes, the Obi of Onitsha thanked the distinguished guests for honouring him with their presence.
The monarch reflected on his long-standing relationships with many of the dignitaries in attendance, including former President Obasanjo, whom he said had supported him during his journey to the throne.
He acknowledged that succession to the Onitsha throne, like many traditional stools, had been characterised by controversies and rivalries, but appreciated those who stood by him throughout the process.
The monarch also spoke warmly of his friendship with Governor Sanwo-Olu, joking that they shared a common bond as “Surulere boys.”
Reflecting on his birthday, the Obi of Onitsha explained that he traditionally regards birthdays as moments for quiet reflection and gratitude to God rather than elaborate celebrations.
He expressed surprise at the scale of the festivities organised in his honour and thanked everyone for their goodwill, prayers and gifts.
The celebration brought together prominent political leaders, traditional rulers, business executives, and other distinguished Nigerians who gathered to honour one of the country’s longest-serving and most respected monarchs.
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