By Silvernews
In a significant development, His Royal Highness, Eze Demion Njoku Ekwueme II, the traditional ruler of Nguru Nwekwo Autonomous Community, has officially recognized Umuimeka as one of the kindreds in Oboama Nguru Nwekwo Autonomous Community.
The decision was made last Tuesday during a crucial meeting held at the Eze’s palace in Ogwu Okwu, where community leaders gathered to resolve the long-standing issue regarding the status of Umuimeka. However, tensions flared when a section of the leaders walked out during the presentation of the kolanut, arguing that Umuimeka should not be included in the traditional offering.
Despite the walkout, a roll call confirmed that the seven other kindreds remained present. At this point, Eze Njoku revisited historical records and presented a map from the Aboh Mbaise Local Government headquarters, which officially listed Imeka as one of the eight kindreds in Oboama Nguru Nwekwo.
The traditional ruler urged community members who identify as part of Imeka but are reluctant to adopt the name to respect the rights of those who choose to embrace their ancestral identity. He also reminded them that Umuimeka is not the first kindred to assert its autonomy within the community.
Speaking on the matter, Okenze Ephraim Opara, a high-ranking community leader in Oboama and Nguru Nwekwo, recalled that Umuimeka was blessed by community leaders in a formal ceremony last year. He expressed disappointment that some individuals now question the earlier recognition, making their stance appear inconsistent.
Nze Kawawa Ibeh also weighed in on the issue, emphasizing the need for understanding and acceptance. According to him, “Imeka is a movement whose time has come,” and people must recognize that not everyone wishes to remain under the same structure indefinitely.
Speaking to the people of the area via telephone from his base, the Apex leader of Imeka, Engineer Declan Obiajuwa, urged the children of Imeka to remain law-abiding despite the provocation caused by the walkout at the Eze’s palace.
Nze Macqueen Obiajuwa, Chief Steenles and deacon Kenneth Obiajuwa described the recognition as an act designed by God to liberate the sons of Imeka. They emphasized that the day marked a turning point in the long struggle of the descendants of the former warrant chief in Nguru Nwekwo. They also called on Umuimeka worldwide to celebrate their freedom as declared by Eze Njoku.
As the community navigates these changes, Eze Njoku called for unity and mutual respect, urging all factions to embrace peace and acknowledge the historical and administrative recognition of Umuimeka within Oboama Nguru Nwekwo.
