By Oyem Jonathan
The ancient Ukwu-Oba Kingdom in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State has etched a golden page in its history with the formal installation, coronation, and presentation of Staff of Office to His Royal Majesty, Obi Cletus Nkeakam Ochei, the first traditional ruler of the community. The epoch-making ceremony, which held on Thursday, October 2, 2025, was described as a landmark transition in the socio-cultural and political evolution of the agrarian kingdom.
Speaking at the colourful event, the Executive Chairman of Aniocha South, Hon. Pastor Jude Chukwunwike , congratulated the kingdom for successfully navigating the delicate process of enthroning its first monarch after years of reliance on the Okpala-Uku system of leadership. According to him, the decision to embrace a monarchical structure, despite the initial conflicts, represents a bold and strategic departure that would consolidate unity, strengthen communal bonds, and provide clearer direction for the people.
Chukwunwike further appealed to the Delta State Government to accelerate infrastructure development in the area, particularly the opening of access roads to Abah-Unor, Ukwu-Oba, Umute, Adonte, and other adjoining communities. Such intervention, he stressed, would stimulate economic growth, enhance social cohesion, and unlock the vast agricultural potential of the area.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by his Deputy, His Excellency Sir Monday Onyeme, FCA, led a high-powered state delegation to the ceremony. In his goodwill message, the Governor congratulated Obi Nkeakam on his historic ascension to the throne, charging him to lead with fairness, dispense justice without fear or favour, and uphold the rich cultural heritage of his forebears.
“The strength of every progressive society lies in its unity,” the Governor declared. “Your ascension must therefore be a rallying point for peace, inclusiveness, and magnanimity. Be a father to all, and continue to build bridges of harmony among your people.” He assured the gathering that the state government had already put concrete plans in motion to give priority attention to the road network within Aniocha South, particularly those linking the agrarian hinterlands to major markets.
Earlier in an address, the President-General of Ukwu-Oba community, Mr. Mathias Nwaebichi, expressed profound appreciation to the state government, the Aniocha South Council leadership, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders for gracing the historic occasion. He paid glowing tributes to Hon. Pastor Jude Chukwunwike for his visionary leadership and unwavering support for the kingdom. He also reiterated the community’s call for access roads and social amenities that would further transform their fortunes.
The highpoint of the occasion was the symbolic presentation of Staff of Office to HRM Obi Cletus Nkeakam Ochei by the State Deputy Governor, marking his induction into the revered council of traditional rulers’ in Delta State. The presentation was received amidst jubilation, cultural displays, and the pouring of royal blessings.
The event drew an impressive array of dignitaries, including the Commissioner for Technical Education, Hon. Ijeoma Smart Ufoh ; the Executive chairman of Ndokwa West LGA, Hon. Chief Dr. Goddey Obi Nzete, Special Adviser to the Governor on Infrastructure and Investment, Hon. Chief Barr. Nath Igbadi; and Hon. Collins Iwebunor, Executive Director, Delta State Board of Internal Revenue.
Also present were the Leader of the Legislative Arm in Aniocha South, Hon Leonard Nzemeke ; Secretary of Council, Hon. Prince Tony K Ebube ; Head of Personnel Management, Mr. Austin Akaeze; Treasurer of Council, Mr. Sunny Otighie; and Special Adviser to the Council Chairman, Mr. John TeeJay Odiaka . Also present were Hon. Anukwu Tony ,SSA to the executive Governor, Councilors ,supervisory councilors and LG appointees.
The royal gathering was further dignified by the presence of prominent traditional rulers, including HRM Obi Henry Afamefune Kikachukwu JP, Obi of Ubulu-Unor; HRM Obi Anthony Ogboli, Obi of Ejeme-Aniogor; HRM Obi Godwin Onyeweuwa, Obi of Ewulu, and HRM Obi Solomon Ezechinyelugo, Obi of Ashama.
Also in attendance was HRM Obi Austen Ezeagwuna, Obi of Egbudu-Akah, who came in solidarity with their brother monarchs.
With the staff of office now firmly in his grasp, HRM Obi Cletus Nkeakam Ochei today begins his reign as custodian of the Ukwu-Oba throne, charged with the noble task of uniting his people, preserving their heritage, and steering the kingdom toward a new dawn of peace, progress, and prosperity.
