The Abiriba community in Bende Local Government Area, on Sunday, pulled down to Abia State national royal fathers for the 21st traditional coronation anniversary of its paramount ruler and the Enachioken of Abiriba, HRM Eze Kalu Kalu Ogbu IV.

Eze Ogbu IV who is the 17th Enachioken of Abiriba used the occasion to award traditional recognition to many eminent and resourceful men of impact from within and beyond the Abiriba Kingdom.

Those recognized include the Abia State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Ude Oko Chukwu, Sen. Enyi Abaribe of Abia South District, Hon. Uko Nkole of Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency, Sen. Istifanus D. Gyang of Plateau North District, and John Okiyi Kalu, the Abia State Commissioner for Trade and Investment.

Those in attendance include HRM, Eze Ndubuisi Nwabeke, chairman of Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers, Mazi Augustine Kanu Okoro, the Regent King of Arochukwu Kingdom, HRM Dr. Umar Muhammed Atiku, the Lamido of Akko, HRM, Alh (Dr.) Abubakar Buba, Atare 2 of Mai Tula, HRH Alh Umar Musa, the Uchu Ninzo 15th, and HRM Dr. Muhammad sambo Haruna, the Emir of Wuse, among others.


Earlier in his address, the Chairman of the Anniversary Committee, Rtn. George Ezikpe Okiyi said the recognitions are an “acknowledgement and appreciation of noble efforts that are worthy of emulation”.


Fielding questions from newsmen, John Okiyi Kalu, the Abia State Commissioner for Trade and Investment expressed his excitement that the title, ‘Nwandugbom’ lastly held by his grandfather, has finally been returned to his lineage through him and thanked the Enachioken for the honour.