By Onwukwe Ezeru, Umuahia
The Abia State branch of the apex socio-cultural body of Ndigbo, Ohanaeze, has adopted an Abia businessman and proprietor, Charles Nzechi Foundation, Charles Nzechi, as its Grand Patron.
Speaking during the occasion which was conducted at his Umuokwenuta, Isingwu country home in Abia North, the President General of Ohanaeze, Gari Igariwo, said that the organization has helped Abia to be peaceful.
Igariwo, spoke through his Vice President, Abia, Chikwe Ndumele. He said that they also want their efforts to be seen as peacemakers. His words: “We want peace in Abia and not trouble. Abia State will still maintain the lead in the league of states in this country. We hope all the troubles in the state will come to an end”.
After conferring the award of excellence on Nzechi as the “Nwannejiagamba” (worthy son), the state President of Ohanaeze, Emmanuel Akparanta, said that the organisation has the problem of representation, hence the acceptance of Nzechi as their Grand Patron for being himself and being humble, especially by exposing his community by deciding to build an edifice there.
He said that Ohanaeze has seen what they want in the man, pointing out that in the state, equity is vital for the survival of the state and for justice to rein, stating, “We do not want sit tight people.
“We are lucky to identify with Nzechi and must not wait for such people to raise up their hands to be chosen. He is the rising sun of Ikwuano/Umuahia and Ohuhu clan (of Umuahia North). Ohanaeze cannot wait to adopt Nzechi for a position dear to us”.
In her speech, the state woman leader of Ohanaeze, Ada Ocho, thanked Nzechi for his numerous empowerment programmes to Abia youths, which she said will reduce restiveness, as well as houses he built for the homeless in the society, stating that he has more to do for Ndigbo.
Responding, Charles Nzechi said he sees himself as an Igboman that is blessed, but not rich and dedicated the award to his late mother, Onyejiuwaoma.
Thanked the group for the peace and development in Igboland and pledged to be an ambassador of Igbo people.
