In a resplendent ceremony befitting royalty, Bianca Ojukwu, widow of the late Biafra leader Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu, was conferred with the title Aka Ekpuchi Onwa—“the hand that covers the moon.” This marks her 10th traditional honor in the South-East region of Nigeria.
The title was bestowed by His Royal Highness, Igwe Kenneth Orizu III, the centenarian monarch of the Nnewi Ancient Kingdom. The grand occasion, held during the 61st Ofala Festival in Nnewi, Anambra State, drew a constellation of notable figures including state governors, senators, business magnates, and cultural icons.
The Monarch and His Legacy
Igwe Kenneth Orizu III, Nigeria’s longest-serving traditional ruler, ascended the throne on June 2, 1963, succeeding his father, HRH Josiah Nnaji Igwe Orizu II. Born in 1925, the monarch has reigned for over six decades, maintaining the revered traditions of the Nnewi people while guiding the kingdom into the modern era.
As the 20th ruler of the Nnewi dynasty, Igwe Orizu III presides over one of the oldest monarchies in Eastern Nigeria, with a lineage dating back to the 15th century. The throne’s succession is governed by primogeniture, ensuring its stability and continuity across centuries.
The Ofala Festival, a hallmark of Igbo culture, serves as an annual reaffirmation of the monarch’s leadership and the people’s allegiance. This year’s festival carried added significance as it marked Igwe Orizu’s remarkable centenary—a milestone that underscores his enduring influence and wisdom.
Bianca Ojukwu: A Profile in Diplomacy and Heritage
Bianca Ojukwu is no stranger to accolades. As a lawyer, diplomat, and politician, she has held several high-profile positions, including Nigeria’s Ambassador to Spain and Permanent Representative to the United Nations World Tourism Organization. Currently serving as Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, she continues to represent the nation on the global stage.
Her roots in Igbo culture and heritage have been a consistent theme throughout her life. Accepting the Aka Ekpuchi Onwa title, Bianca emphasized its symbolic significance. “This honor is not just mine but a reflection of the legacy of my late husband, whose vision for the Igbo people remains alive,” she remarked during the ceremony.
The title, which translates to “the hand that covers the moon,” is a poetic tribute to her role as a protector and illuminator of her community.
A Celebration of Culture and Unity
The Ofala Festival was a spectacle of cultural pride, featuring colorful dances, masquerades, and traditional music. Attendees were treated to performances from various cultural troupes, showcasing the richness of Igbo heritage.
Distinguished guests praised the event for its grandeur and the recognition of individuals who have contributed to the progress and preservation of Igbo culture. Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, who attended the ceremony, lauded the monarch’s foresight in honoring Bianca Ojukwu. “She embodies the resilience and brilliance of the Igbo people,” he said.
A Symbol of Endurance and Modernity
Under Igwe Orizu III’s reign, the Nnewi kingdom has navigated the complexities of modernization while retaining its cultural identity. The Ofala Festival is a testament to this balance, blending traditional rites with contemporary ceremonies to foster unity among the people.
Bianca Ojukwu’s conferment during this landmark festival is a reflection of her multifaceted contributions to both Igbo culture and Nigeria’s global diplomacy. It also serves as a reminder of the enduring significance of traditional institutions in shaping societal values.
Legacy and Recognition
The Aka Ekpuchi Onwa title adds another feather to Bianca’s cap, reinforcing her position as a cultural and political luminary. Her late husband, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu, remains an iconic figure in Igbo history, remembered for his leadership during the Biafran struggle. Bianca’s achievements, coupled with her commitment to preserving her husband’s legacy, continue to inspire admiration and respect.
Reflecting on the event, Igwe Orizu III commended Bianca for her unwavering dedication to the Igbo cause. “Her efforts to elevate our people’s dignity and voice have not gone unnoticed,” he said.
