Chukwuma Soludo Strengthens Traditional Institutions, Presents Certificates to Six New Monarchs in Anambra
Chukwuma Soludo Strengthens Traditional Institutions, Presents Certificates to Six New Monarchs in Anambra
GLOBAL EGBERI TV OFUNAMA
February 20, 2026
In a significant move aimed at reinforcing grassroots governance and deepening community development, the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has presented official Certificates of Recognition to six newly elected traditional rulers across the state.
The colourful ceremony, held at the Light House in Awka, symbolised the state government’s continued commitment to strengthening traditional leadership as a pillar of peace, unity, and sustainable development in Anambra communities.
Traditional Institutions as Pillars of Stability
Addressing the monarchs and dignitaries at the event, Governor Soludo emphasised that the office of the traditional ruler derives its authority from town union constitutions in most communities. According to him, these constitutions clearly define the responsibilities and limits of royal authority.
The governor urged the newly recognised monarchs to:
Uphold their community constitutions faithfully
Promote good governance at the grassroots level
Prioritise the welfare of their people
Foster unity, peace, and harmony
Avoid conflicts often witnessed between traditional rulers and Presidents-General
He reminded them that the royal stool is not merely ceremonial but a sacred trust that demands integrity, fairness, and fatherly leadership.
“Be the light and father of all,” the governor charged, encouraging communities to take ownership of their traditional institutions and preserve their dignity.
Government’s Commitment to Community-Based Development
The Anambra State Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, Tony-Collins Nwabunwanne, explained that the emergence of the monarchs followed due process in accordance with their respective town constitutions before final presentation to the governor for recognition.
He further highlighted the effectiveness of the state’s Public-Private-Community Partnership (PPCP) model, noting that:
Individuals and stakeholders are increasingly contributing to community development.
Other states are beginning to replicate Anambra’s approach, particularly under amended local government laws.
This model, he said, has strengthened collaboration between government and communities, accelerating grassroots development.
Traditional Rulers’ Council Expresses Confidence
The Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers’ Council, Igwe Chidubem Iweka, described the newly recognised monarchs as “tested and trusted,” expressing optimism that their leadership would usher in a new era of reduced rancour, animosity, and communal disputes.
He pledged the council’s full support to ensure stability and cooperation across the affected communities.
The Newly Recognised Monarchs
The six traditional rulers officially recognised include:
Igwe Justice Samuel Okoye – Traditional Ruler of Azigbo, Nnewi South LGA
Igwe Clement Onwuka – Traditional Ruler of Isulo, Orumba South LGA
Igwe Uche Okonkwo – Traditional Ruler of Amawbia, Awka South LGA
Igwe Benson Madubuko – Traditional Ruler of Adazi-Ani, Anaocha LGA
Igwe Ejike Ugoagbala – Traditional Ruler of Ora-Eri, Aguata LGA
Igwe Ben Okekeifi – Traditional Ruler of Ndiowu, Orumba North LGA
Their recognition formalises their authority and integrates them fully into the state’s traditional governance structure.
Implications for Governance and Community Peace
This development underscores the strategic importance of traditional institutions in Nigeria’s governance framework. In states like Anambra, monarchs play critical roles in:
Conflict resolution
Cultural preservation
Mobilisation for development projects
Moral guidance within communities
By institutionalising and recognising traditional rulers through constitutional processes, the Soludo administration appears to be positioning Anambra as a model for structured traditional governance.
A Model for Other States?
Observers note that Anambra’s structured approach to chieftaincy matters — anchored on constitutional legitimacy, community consensus, and government oversight — may serve as a template for other Nigerian states grappling with leadership disputes within traditional institutions.
The ceremony at the Light House therefore goes beyond symbolic recognition; it represents a reaffirmation of the synergy between modern governance and traditional authority.
Conclusion
As Anambra continues to pursue development under Governor Soludo’s leadership, the strengthening of traditional institutions signals a deliberate strategy to anchor progress at the grassroots.
With the six newly recognised monarchs now formally empowered, expectations are high that their reigns will foster stability, enhance local development, and reinforce the enduring values of unity and communal harmony in their respective domains.
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