Old age is a special grace from God especially when it comes with soundness of mind and health.
Speaking at Awka Civic center during the selection and installation of Chief James Ikwunne Ijeoma of Umuogbu Village as “Otochalu Awaka” also known as the oldest man in Awka, Governor Soludo said that his administration has offered appointment to many Awka indegenes, adding that he has so far inaugurated some roads for either construction or reconstruction which Awka community benefitted a large share.
Governor Soludo who was represented by the Commissioner for Culture, Tourism and Entertainment, Mr Don Onyenji commended the people of Awka for following due process in the selection of the oldest man in the community who is aged 106 , and disclosed that he has given approval for the Anambra Arts and culture festival early next year.
He urged the people of Awka community to find ways of reviving the Black Smith industry which Awka Community is known for.
The Traditional Ruler of Awka, Igwe Gibson Nwosu, thanked God for restoring relative peace to the community, and encouraged members of the community to join hands to make Awka greater.
Traditional Prime Minister of Awka, Chief Benjamin Okoye and the President General of Awka Development Union Nigeria, Chief Kanayo Nwogbo who spoke through the administrative secretary, Chief Alexander Nwachukwu, thanked Governor Soludo for restoring relative peace to Awka through his actions, in addition to giving some of her indigenes appointments in his government and reassured him of their support.
In a remark, the new Otochalu-Awka, Chief Ijeoma thanked God for keeping him alive till date, and prayed for peace, love and more progress in Awka.
Some stakeholders in Awka community, Chief Ken Ekwenugo and Rotarian Abuchi Nwozor, as well as the President General of the Women’s wing of Awka Development Union, Barrister Ogechukwu Ekweozor described the selection and installation of the oldest man in Awka as a great thing that has happened in Awka and expressed optimism that the event will bring more harmonious coexistence, even as they prayed God to give the oldest man sound health.
Also present at the event which attracted representatives of the whole thirty-three villages that make up Awka community, were the Deputy Present General of the town, Chief Onyebuchi Nwobu, and the Speaker Ezeuzu In-Council, Chief Nwaeze Okoli, among others
