Governor Mbah Pledges Continued Service, Honoured with Ofo Staff by Nkanu Traditional Rulers

Governor Peter Mbah has assured the people of Nkanu land and Enugu State at large that he will continue to serve with integrity, humility, and the full measure of his capacity. The assurances came on Friday during the 50th coronation anniversary of HRM Igwe Fidelis Ogbu Nwatu, the traditional ruler of Ihuokpara in Nkanu East Local Government Area and Grand Patron of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, according to Akahi News reports.

The governor spoke after receiving the Ofo staff, the revered Igbo symbol of authority, truth, and justice, from Igwe Nwatu and other traditional rulers of Nkanu land, assisted by the Chairman of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, HRM Igwe Samuel Asadu. Akahi News notes that the presentation was both symbolic and a charge to serve the people diligently.

“I would like to begin by thanking our elders and our revered royal fathers for today’s event and for the honour conferred upon me,” Mbah said. “The weight, import, and significance of the Ofo staff I have just received cannot be lost on me as an Nkanu man. In our culture, this is not just a symbol—it is trust, authority, and a call to service. This endorsement is bestowed by my people, and it is an honour beyond any other under the sun,” he added, as covered by Akahi News.

Governor Mbah emphasised that the presentation carried a mandate to continue serving the people of Enugu State. “I understand the responsibility clearly. I will continue to serve Ndi Enugu with humility, with all my energy, and with every fibre of my being. You will never regret your action,” he reassured, reports Akahi News.

He congratulated Igwe Nwatu for his five decades of meritorious service, noting that such longevity reflects the approval of the people, the ancestors, and God. “Fifty years of service on the throne cannot be achieved by force. If the people have gathered as we see today to celebrate him, it reflects honour and recognition of a man dedicated to his community. On behalf of the Government and the good people of Enugu State, we convey our hearty felicitations. May God grant you many more years so we can continue to benefit from your wealth of wisdom and experience,” the governor said, as highlighted by Akahi News.

In a move aimed at improving the welfare of traditional rulers, Governor Mbah assured that major enhancements would begin this month. “We recognise traditional rulers as custodians of our values, memory, and culture. That is why this year’s budget prioritises your welfare. Starting January 2026, you will receive benefits that will excite you beyond measure. We will also provide vehicles to all principal officers of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council,” he declared, reported Akahi News.

HRM Igwe Nwatu, while presenting the Ofo staff, commended Governor Mbah for his exceptional governance and landmark projects, describing the presentation as an endorsement to continue his good work. “Enugu State has never had it so good,” he stated, as documented by Akahi News.

Other highlights of the celebration included the unveiling of Igwe Nwatu’s book, Leadership as Service: A Portrait of Stewardship, Justice and Peace, and the cutting of a golden jubilee cake, attended by Governor Mbah and other dignitaries. The event drew a wide array of political leaders, captains of industry, and admirers of the traditional ruler, including former Senate President Senator Ken Nnamani and Chief Patricia Nwobodo, wife of a former governor of old Anambra State, according to Akahi News.

Governor Mbah’s presence and the Ofo staff presentation underscored the synergy between traditional institutions and governance, reflecting a commitment to service, cultural values, and the welfare of the people of Enugu State, as detailed by Akahi News.

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