Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah of Enugu State has been applauded for his commitment towards the development of traditional institutions and peacebuilding across communities in the state.
The traditional ruler of Ogugu Ntu-egbenese Ancient Kingdom in Awgu Local Government Area of Enugu State, His Royal Majesty, Igwe Aloysius Chidozie Ogbonna Jnr, Ubojene II, made this known on Sunday in his congratulatory message to the newly elected executives of Ogugu Ntu-egbenese Town Union.
He disclosed that Governor Peter Mbah has once more demonstrated his unending commitment to building traditional institutions and fostering development for the grassroots.
According to him, “The community’s recent peaceful election of a President General and recognition of a traditional ruler, both happening for the first time in over 25 years, is a great achievement made possible through the Governor’s leadership.
“This accomplishment was once thought impossible. For more than two decades, Ogugu Ntu-egbenese struggled without a President General or a recognised traditional ruler. Today, thanks to Governor Mbah’s intervention and support, our people can enjoy true representation and peace”.
The monarch also congratulated the newly elected President General of Ogugu Progressives Union General Assembly (OPUGA), Engr Ben Udeh, describing his victory as a reflection of the people’s trust and confidence. He expressed optimism that Engr Udeh’s records of community service will be of great benefit in his new role.
He also extended his gratitude to the Enugu State Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Chieftaincy Matters, led by Deacon Okey Ogbodo, for their proactive approach in ensuring a smooth and credible electoral process in the community. He noted that the ministry’s fair handling of community affairs played a major role in the election’s peaceful outcome.
The Akajiofo Ntu-egbenese also urged all the sons and daughters of Ogugu Ntu-egbenese, both at home and in the diaspora, to unite and support the new leadership, while also reaffirming the palace’s readiness to work with all stakeholders to promote peace, development, and progress in the community.
According to the statement, “I, His Royal Majesty, Igwe Aloysius Chidozie Ogbonna Jnr, Ubojene II of Ogugu Ntu-egbenese Ancient Kingdom, heartily congratulate Engr Ben Udeh on his overwhelming victory during the just-concluded election of the Ogugu Progressives Union General Assembly (OPUGA), held on Saturday at Ogugu Central school field, Amanabo. His emergence as President General is a clear show of confidence and support from the people, and I am certain he will serve with purpose, dedication, and sincerity.
“Engr Ben Udeh’s victory brings about a new chapter in the history of our beloved community, because his leadership journey has been one of service, and now he has been chosen to serve at a greater level. I believe his commitment to community growth and his understanding of our challenges will bring positive changes in the years to come, owing to the competence he has exhibited in his previous assignments for the community.
“I also extend deep appreciation to the Enugu State Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development and Chieftaincy Matters under the able leadership of Deacon Okey Ogbodo. Their proactive approach and fairness in handling matters affecting our people have contributed immensely to the peace and order we now enjoy. Their role in facilitating a smooth and credible OPUGA election is deeply acknowledged.
“Let me specially applaud His Excellency, Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, for his uncommon interest in grassroots development and the rebuilding of traditional institutions. It is under his watch that Ogugu Ntu-egbenese has achieved what seemed impossible for more than 25 years; as we now have both a traditional ruler and a President General. Governor Mbah’s leadership has brought peace to the Ogugu Ntu-egbenese community that had known division for decades.
“This accomplishment is not a small one, and for it, we are truly grateful. The people of Ogugu are experiencing a renewed sense of unity and identity. We are thankful for the Governor’s intervention, support, and sincere desire to see communities like ours prosper.
“We pledge our complete support to Governor Peter Mbah’s administration. We are behind him as he continues to build a better Enugu State. We believe in his vision, and we remain committed to partnering with his government to deliver real development at the grassroots level.
“I call on all well-meaning sons and daughters of Ogugu Ntu-egbenese, both at home and in the diaspora, to rally behind the newly elected President General, Engr Ben Udeh and his executives. Now is the time to embrace peace and unity for the progress of our land. Let us work together and contribute meaningfully to the development of our community.
“As the traditional ruler, I remain committed to providing the necessary support for community growth and stability. My palace will continue to offer guidance, cooperation, and leadership in ensuring that Ogugu Ntu-egbenese moves forward in harmony and with purpose.
“Once again, congratulations to Engr Ben Udeh. May your time in office bring pride and progress to Ogugu. May peace continue to reign in our land”.