A former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Sam Onuigbo, has paid a congratulatory visit to the Director of ABN TV & Radio, Chief Ifeanyi Okali, following his conferment with the prestigious chieftaincy title of “Okwuru Oha” by the Ebem Ohafia traditional institution.
Hon. Onuigbo, who visited alongside members of his team, described the honour as one genuinely earned through years of service, integrity, and commitment to society.
“We came to congratulate you on this honour. Titles may sometimes appear insignificant, but when they are earned as you have earned yours, they become truly meaningful,” he said.
He explained that he was unavoidably absent during the conferment but felt compelled to visit personally upon his return, given his longstanding relationship with Okali.
“This is not an honour purchased, but one earned. Considering our years of partnership, I would have loved to be present. Now that I am back, it is only right that I come to celebrate you,” Onuigbo added.
The former lawmaker noted that the title “Okwuru Oha,” meaning ‘one who speaks for the people,’ aptly reflects Okali’s longstanding role as a voice for the masses, not only in Ohafia and Igboland but across Nigeria and beyond.
He urged the media executive to see the recognition as a motivation to do more, warning against complacency.
“This honour should serve as a foundation for greater achievements. It is a well-deserved recognition, keep up the good work,” he advised.
Responding, Chief Ifeanyi Okali expressed deep appreciation for the visit, describing it as a rare and meaningful gesture.
He revealed that he had previously rejected over 30 chieftaincy offers, many of which were tied to financial demands, insisting that honour should not be commercialised.
“From all the people, you are the one who came to my office to say I deserved this. That shows true grassroots connection,” Okali said.
He recounted an instance where he declined a chieftaincy offer tied to payment arrangements and instead provided media coverage for an event without collecting money or accepting any title.
The ABN TV Director highlighted some of his contributions to his community, including the installation of solar-powered lights in Ebem market, provision of scholarships to students, donation of a large generator, and support for community security initiatives.
Okali also commended the Paramount Ruler of Ebem Ohafia, noting that the monarch’s integrity and non-commercial approach to traditional honours influenced his decision to accept the title.
He added that the conferment, which coincided with the monarch’s 89th birthday and 35th coronation anniversary, reflects genuine recognition of service rather than financial influence.
The visit underscored growing commendations for Chief Okali, with stakeholders describing his chieftaincy title as a true reflection of his impact in media, community development, and public advocacy.
