The father of Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has been crowned the traditional ruler of Oferekpe Agbaja Autonomous Community in Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
Chief Ezekiel Nwifuru Nwankpu, now known as Ezeogo Nwankpu, was decorated as the Chibugo 1 of the community during a grand ceremony.
The coronation has sparked widespread attention due to his unique family structure and his contributions to the community.
Ezeogo Nwankpu, a respected farmer, is famous for his extensive household.
He has married 30 wives, though some left due to childlessness, and now lives with 17 wives.
The king is the proud father of 108 children, with 25 of them having graduated from higher institutions.
Among his children is Governor Francis Nwifuru, born to his fourth wife.
Speaking at the coronation, Governor Nwifuru recounted the family’s struggles with their community in the past.
He revealed how his family suffered dejection, intimidation, and the loss of his uncle, who was killed in the village square.
“Our family land was forcefully taken,” the governor said, adding that the land now houses the Oferekpe Agbaja Primary School II, where the coronation took place.
The governor praised his father’s resilience in the face of such adversity, describing him as a hardworking and loving man who provided for his large family through farming.
Governor Nwifuru explained that his father’s decision to marry multiple wives was driven by isolation and maltreatment from the community.
“Due to the maltreatment from his relatives and neighbors, my father sought companionship and helping hands to support his dreams as a prosperous farmer,” the governor said.
He noted that despite these challenges, his father built a legacy of love and hard work within the family.
“All his wives and children work hard to train themselves in school, and that is why we have 25 graduates in my family,” he said proudly.
During the ceremony, Governor Nwifuru advised his father to rule with fairness, generosity, and a focus on unity.
He urged the new king to avoid vindictiveness and reign with God’s guidance.
“My father should be a king that ensures peace and unity in our community,” the governor said.
The coronation attracted prominent figures from within and outside Ebonyi State.
Former Minister of Power, Chief Godwin Ogbaga, who chaired the occasion, praised Ezeogo Nwankpu for his contributions to societal development.
Ogbaga credited the coronation to Governor Nwifuru’s leadership, which enabled the creation of the autonomous community.
Among the dignitaries present were former governors Dr. Sam Egwu, Chief Martin Elechi, and Senator David Umahi.
Also in attendance were the three senators and six members of the House of Representatives representing Ebonyi State, as well as state executives and local government chairmen.
As the Chibugo 1 of Oferekpe Agbaja Autonomous Community, Ezeogo Nwankpu will preside over 17 villages.
His new role is expected to bring development and unity to the community, further cementing his legacy as a patriarch and leader.
The coronation marks not just a personal milestone for the Nwankpu family but also a significant moment in the history of Oferekpe Agbaja.
The family’s story, from hardship to royalty, stands as a testament to resilience and determination.
For the people of Oferekpe Agbaja, the crowning of Ezeogo Nwankpu signals the beginning of a new chapter of hope and progress.
