Pastor Solomon Ezumah Elected First “Onye-ndu Ndigbo” in Niger State, Signifying New Era of Igbo-Traditional Ties.
By Yahaya Zakka Minna.
In a historic move, Pastor Solomon Ndubuisi Ogbonnaya Ezumah has been appointed as the inaugural “Onye-ndu Ndigbo” in Niger State, following a recent mandate from the South Eastern Traditional Rulers’ Council. This decision marks the abolition of the “Eze-Igbo” title outside the core Igbo-speaking states.
Following his official unveiling by the ‘Ime-obi,’ the highest decision-making authority in Igbo tradition, and the Ohaneze-Ndigbo in Niger State, Ezumah expressed his commitment to fostering the longstanding relationship between the Igbo community and the host tribes within the Bida Emirate Council, a relationship that dates back to 1902.
A retired civil servant, Ezumah emphasized the collaborative spirit that has defined the coexistence of the Igbo people and the Nupe-speaking community in the region. He noted that the majority of the Igbo population in Bida are engaged in trade, with a small percentage holding professional positions, and highlighted that there have been no reported incidents of violence against the Igbo community throughout this extensive history.
Ezumah paid tribute to the Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, praising the Nupe people for their welcoming nature, which has significantly contributed to the harmonious relationship enjoyed by the Igbo residents in the area.
In a speech at the unveiling ceremony, the outgoing Ohaneze-Ndigbo President for Niger State, Chief Emmanuel Ezeugo, urged the new leader to respect the traditions, culture, and faith of the host community. He encouraged Ezumah to promote unity and inclusivity among all Igbo people in decisions impacting their welfare.
Chief Ezeugo further praised the entrepreneurial spirit of the Igbo community and urged them to serve as exemplary representatives of their heritage, not just in Bida Emirate but throughout Niger State and beyond.
