The Imo State Council of Traditional Rulers has elected Eze Fredric Nwachukwu as its new Deputy Chairman, following the passing of Eze David Osuagwu, the former occupant of the position.
Leading the formal event, the Imo State Chairman of the Council, Eze C. Okeke, extended prayers for Nwachukwu’s peaceful and successful reign, emphasizing that leadership transitions are necessary as “nature abhors a vacuum.”
The election took place at the Owerri Zone Council of Traditional Rulers’ office within the Ezeimo Palace, Mbari, Owerri. Dressed in their regal traditional attire, royal fathers gathered to witness the formal inauguration of the new Deputy Chairman’s office.
Until his appointment, Eze Nwachukwu served as the traditional custodian of Ngor Ancient Kingdom, Chairman of the Ngor Okpala LGA Council of Traditional Rulers, and acting Chairman of the Owerri Zone Council of Traditional Rulers.
Declaring the office open, Eze Okeke, who also chairs the South East Council of Traditional Rulers, led a minute of silence to honor Eze Osuagwu’s memory before explaining the importance of the transition.
He clarified that Eze Nwachukwu would act as Deputy Chairman of the State Council and oversee Traditional Rulers of Owerri Zone pending his official recognition by the State Governor.
Urging commitment to duty, Eze Okeke advised the new Deputy Chairman to maintain integrity and uphold the Council’s values, stressing the need for traditional rulers to ensure security and preserve the culture and traditions of their domains.
In his acceptance speech, Eze Nwachukwu expressed gratitude for the support and blessings from Ezeimo, assuring that he would seek God’s guidance in his leadership role.
Performing his first official duty in office, he conducted the ritual of the royal breaking of the kola nut and pledged to unify the Traditional Rulers of Owerri Zone in support of the State Council Chairman.
