The Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council, His Imperial Majesty Igwe Chidubem Iweka, Ogalagidi Eze Iweka III, has pledged continuous support to non-indigenes residing in Anambra State.
The revered monarch made the pledge during his 2025 Obiora Iwaji Obosi Festival, where the Association of Non-Indigenes in Anambra State (ANIAS) conferred on him the title of Patron, in recognition of his outstanding leadership and fatherly role in promoting peace and unity across the state.
In his address, Igwe Iweka commended the leadership and members of ANIAS for their peaceful conduct and orderly coexistence with their host communities.
He praised the association for fostering harmonious relationships among residents, regardless of ethnic or religious background.
“I must commend the Association of Non-Indigenes in Anambra State for the peace and discipline they have continued to demonstrate. You have shown true commitment to the progress and unity of our state,” the monarch said.
He further lauded the President of ANIAS, Prince Chigozie Nweke, for his purposeful leadership and effective coordination of the association’s activities.
According to him, the body’s continuous engagement with traditional institutions, town unions, and the state government has greatly contributed to maintaining peace and mutual respect in Anambra.
The monarch expressed his readiness to support the association whenever needed, assuring them of his palace’s open door for guidance and collaboration.
“Your association has genuine intentions to contribute meaningfully to the development of Anambra State. I am impressed by your conduct and commitment, and I promise to support you whenever you call on me,” he stated.
Igwe Iweka also encouraged non-indigenes in the state to continue being law-abiding, cooperative, and supportive of the state government.
He particularly urged them to rally behind the re-election bid of Governor Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, whom he described as a leader with inclusive governance ideals.
“Governor Soludo’s administration has been fair and accommodating to all residents, including non-indigenes. Many of your members have benefited from his policies in education, healthcare, and employment. I encourage you to support him wholeheartedly,” he said.
While presenting the certificate of patronage to the monarch, ANIAS President, Prince Chigozie Nweke, explained that the association decided to honour Igwe Iweka in recognition of his unwavering support to non-indigenes and his strong role in upholding and promoting the traditional institution and culture of Ndi Anambra.
“We, the executive and elders of the Association of Non-Indigenes in Anambra State, are proud of your fatherly guidance and constant support. You have always stood by us and ensured that we are treated fairly in the state. Your leadership is a source of inspiration to us,” Nweke said.
He reaffirmed the association’s commitment to maintaining peace and obedience to the laws of the state, emphasizing that non-indigenes are mobilizing with their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in preparation for the forthcoming governorship election to support Governor Soludo’s re-election.
Nweke also commended the governor for his inclusive style of governance, which he said has benefitted non-indigenes more than any previous administration.
“Governor Soludo has shown fairness to all residents, irrespective of ethnic or religious background. We are happy with his administration and will continue to support him in every possible way,” he added.
In his closing remarks, Prince Nweke appreciated the OONI OF IFE and the ETSU OF NUPE, who graced the event, for their continued efforts in promoting unity and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians.
“We are honoured to have you here. Your presence reinforces our collective commitment to a united and peaceful Nigeria.”
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