The traditional ruler of the Mbaukwu community in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State, Igwe Peter Anugwu, has made a remarkable gesture by officially donating his expansive palace compound to the Pallottine Christian community, a religious body affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church. The donation, which includes the entire palace complex—except for the part where Igwe Anugwu resides—was done as a gesture of thanksgiving to God for the blessings he has received throughout his life.
The handover took place in a ceremony that was witnessed by several dignitaries, including Anambra State’s Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, who hails from the Mbaukwu community. Other traditional rulers and government officials were also present to witness this historic moment, ensuring that it was properly documented for posterity.
According to Igwe Anugwu, the palace was originally constructed over 44 years ago by a foreign company. It includes a two-storey building with 10 sitting rooms, 18 standard rooms, and a basement. This significant infrastructure, which once served as the heart of the royal residence, will now serve a higher purpose under the Catholic community’s care. The monarch explained that his decision to hand over the property was influenced by his desire to show gratitude to God for his prosperity and blessings.
In a statement, Igwe Anugwu revealed that the palace, with its expansive compound, had become less relevant to him and his family, particularly as his children had all moved away. He expressed confidence that the Pallottine Christian community, known for its dedication to spiritual and community work, would make good use of the buildings. The monarch emphasized that the donation was intended to benefit the church and the wider Mbaukwu community, as the religious body would be able to repurpose the structures for educational, religious, and communal activities.
“This is my way of saying thank you to God for all the blessings I’ve received in my lifetime. I want this place to serve a greater purpose, to benefit the community, and to assist in the work of the church. I believe the Pallottine Christian community will put it to good use,” Igwe Anugwu explained.
In addition to expressing his gratitude, Igwe Anugwu’s decision to donate the palace during his lifetime ensures that the handover is officially recognized and avoids any potential future disputes or misunderstandings regarding ownership, particularly when it comes to inheritance matters. By involving other traditional rulers and government representatives, the Igwe ensured that the gesture was formally recorded and acknowledged.
The Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, who attended the event, commended the Igwe for his act of generosity, highlighting the importance of such acts in strengthening community bonds and supporting the church’s mission. Dr. Ibezim, who is also from the Mbaukwu community, expressed his admiration for Igwe Anugwu’s leadership and foresight, noting that the donation would have lasting positive impacts on the area.
“This is a very significant gesture. It shows the Igwe’s deep commitment to the welfare of the community and his belief in the power of the church to bring positive change. We are grateful for this donation and the opportunities it will create for many generations to come,” Dr. Ibezim remarked.
The Pallottine Christian community, upon receiving the keys to the palace, expressed their gratitude for the generous donation. Members of the community, including church leaders and laypersons, were on hand to accept the handover and discuss plans for utilizing the space for religious activities and social services. The community is expected to renovate and repurpose the various rooms and facilities for their programs, which include educational initiatives, religious retreats, and charitable outreach.
The donation of such an expansive property to a religious organization is a rare and commendable act, especially in a society where land and property disputes are common. Igwe Anugwu’s decision to gift the palace ensures that it will serve as a place of spiritual and social enrichment for the Mbaukwu people and the surrounding areas. The church’s role in community development through education, healthcare, and social programs is expected to be enhanced by this new property.
While the event was celebrated with much fanfare, the real significance of the donation lies in the long-term benefits it will bring to the people of Mbaukwu and the wider Anambra State. The palace, with its expansive grounds and buildings, will now be a center for spiritual development and community engagement. The Pallottine Christian community’s programs will likely attract many people, not only from Mbaukwu but from neighboring communities as well.
Furthermore, Igwe Anugwu’s donation underscores the importance of community-minded leadership and the positive role that traditional rulers can play in supporting national development. By transferring the palace to the church, Igwe Anugwu is ensuring that the property will be used to serve the public good, in line with the values of charity, education, and service that are central to the Catholic faith.
As the handover ceremony concluded, Igwe Anugwu received praise from all corners, including local residents, who expressed their appreciation for the Igwe’s leadership and selflessness. The decision to give away such a valuable property is seen as a rare and extraordinary act of generosity, one that will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy for the community.
With this donation, the Igwe has not only ensured that the palace will continue to serve the public good but has also set an example for other traditional rulers across Nigeria. His act demonstrates how property, when no longer needed by its original owners, can be repurposed for the benefit of the broader community, fostering unity and positive social change.
