Obiano congratulates Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Achebe on 20th coronation anniversary

By BARBARA KALU, Awka –

Former Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano, has congratulated Igwe Alfred Achebe on his 20th coronation anniversary as the Obi of Onitsha.

Achebe ascended the throne on May 14, 2002, at the age of 61 years.

Obiano in his congratulatory message on Saturday, said the anniversary was remarkable because Achebe had delivered innovative leadership on the ancient throne and retained its deep cultural values.

The former governor noted that the traditional ruler had reigned with relative peace and in good health.

According to him, Igwe Achebe’s leadership extends beyond his immediate domain; it has brought respect to the traditional institution not only in Anambra, but in the entire southeast geopolitical zone.

“His commitment to the growth and development of political and cultural advancement has ensured the relevance of traditional institutions in modern governance structure.

“ `Agbogidi’ has indeed developed a modern palace and ceremonial grounds with luxuriant green vegetation’’ he stated.

Obiano added that Onitsha had remained culturally relevant within a cosmopolitan setting as well as being one of the most welcoming cities in the world.

“I must thank you most immensely as I enjoyed a very healthy work relationship with you and your subjects throughout my eight-year tenure as governor,’’ Obiano also said.