In a historic ceremony, the Honourable Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Abia State, Prince Uzo Nwachukwu, presented the Staff of Office to HRH Engr Ndukwe Iko, the newly recognized traditional ruler, the Nnaka 4th of Okon Aku Ohafia.
The event, held at the Ministry of Local Government Chieftaincy Affairs in Umuahia, marked the culmination of a peaceful resolution to leadership dispute in Okon Aku community.
Engr Iko’s emergence as the preferred choice of the people was facilitated by a plebiscite conducted by the ministry, where three contestants stepped down in his favour.
Commissioner Nwachukwu emphasized the importance of peace, fairness, and mediation in resolving traditional leadership disputes, praising the community for embracing peace.
He urged them to work together for development, stating, “Peace is the cornerstone, and without peace, development cannot come.”
HRH Engr Ndukwe Iko expressed gratitude to God and Governor Alex Otti for their support, pledging to prioritize peace, justice, and transparency. He vowed to build on his experience as a former town union president general, correcting past mistakes and uniting the community for rapid development.
The presentation of the Staff of Office officially recognizes HRH Engr Ndukwe Iko as the traditional ruler of Okon Aku Ohafia, ushering in a new era of peace and progress in the community.