U.S.-Based Medical Doctor, Dr. John Onyema, Elected Eze of Umuhu Autonomous Community.
In a landmark event that has rekindled the hopes and cultural pride of Umuhu Autonomous Community, a United States-based medical practitioner, Dr. John Onyema, was on Saturday overwhelmingly elected as the Eze-elect of the community.
The keenly anticipated election, organized by the Umuhu Autonomous Community Electoral Committee, was held at the Ohuhu Community Secondary School, drawing massive turnout from indigenes, traditional rulers, and government representatives. After years of leadership vacuum, the people of Umuhu have now spoken with one voice, choosing Dr. Onyema to ascend the traditional throne that has been left vacant for over seven years.
Speaking to newsmen after the event, Chief Adindu Nwakwuribe described the event as a historic transition that signals a new era for the ancient kingdom, he stated that kingdom has endured years of leadership absence, cultural stagnation, and longing for unity and eulogised the election as widely peaceful, transparent, and a true reflection of the will of the people.
Present at the occasion were officials from the Abia State Government, the Mayor of Umuahia North Local Government Area, Chief Smart Iheoma, and an array of respected royal fathers led by HRM Eze Ngwuli, Chairman of the Ohuhu Council of Traditional Rulers. Others in attendance included HRM Eze Iheanyi Nwokenna, HRM Eze Nnamdi Ofoegbu, as well as prominent sons and daughters of the community who came out en-masse to witness the emergence of their new monarch.
Dr. Onyema’s election has been widely hailed as a unifying moment for Umuhu, as many believe his international exposure, professional pedigree, and deep-rooted ties to the community will usher in a new phase of development, peace, and cultural revival.
The traditional coronation ceremony is expected to follow before the end of the year as the community prepares to formally present their Eze-elect to the relevant authorities.
