Gov. Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra says it is an abomination in Igbo tradition for one community to have two traditional rulers, as he called for lasting peace and unity in Awka during the annual Imo Awka festival.
Soludo made the remark during a solidarity visit to the traditional ruler of Awka, Obi Gibson Nwosu, on Saturday.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to peace and infrastructural development in the state capital.
The governor, who said he was the first serving governor of the state to pay homage to the Awka monarch during the festival, described unified leadership as essential for the progress of the community.
Addressing a gathering that included the Traditional Prime Minister of Awka, the President-General of the town union and members of the Ọzọ Awka society, Soludo declared that peace had officially returned to the capital city.
“In Igbo tradition, it is a taboo for one community to have two kings,” he said, while urging residents to sustain unity and support efforts aimed at developing Awka.
The governor described himself as a man of peace and assured the people that his administration remained committed to rebuilding and transforming the state capital.
As part of the administration’s development agenda for Awka, Soludo announced plans to construct a central palace that would serve the community for generations.
He called on the people of Awka to partner with the government in actualising the vision.
On the religious significance of the Imo Awka festival, the governor said the state government recognised and celebrated people of all faiths, adding that freedom of worship remained guaranteed.
He said traditional worshippers should freely practise their customs while Christians also celebrated their faith peacefully and harmoniously.
Soludo commended the President-General of Awka and the Ọzọ Awka title holders for ensuring a peaceful celebration devoid of security breaches.
Earlier, the President-General of Awka, Chief Fred Chinwuba, commended the governor for his peace initiatives and developmental strides in the state, especially in Awka.
The Traditional Prime Minister of the community, Mr Benjamin Okoye, also pledged continued support for the Soludo administration.
