Chief Aloysius Ogbonna (Ikemba) has been elected as the new traditional ruler of Ogugu community in Enugu State, ending a 24-year leadership vacuum since the passing of the late ìgwè Godwin Ochi in 1999. The election, marked by a significant turnout, employed an open secret ballot system with 1230 citizens accredited from the six villages comprising the community. The contestants, Godwin Egbo and Chief Aloysius Ogbonna, symbolized their campaigns with a local fowl and an elephant, respectively.
Chief Aloysius Ogbonna emerged victorious with 867 votes, while Godwin Egbo secured 363 votes, as declared by the electoral committee chaired by Apostle Ethel Chukwura. In his acceptance speech, Chief Ogbonna expressed gratitude for the collective decision of the people to end the prolonged leadership interregnum.
He acknowledged the support received from various quarters, including Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, the President-General of Ogugu community, Deacon Okey Ogbodo, and others. Chief Ogbonna emphasized unity, pledging to collaborate with his opponent, Gidim Godwin Egbo, for the progress of the community, stating, “There is no victory and no vanquished.”
The President-General of Ogugu Progressive Union, Chief Paully Ofido, lauded the successful election as a victory for the community, expressing gratitude for divine assistance in overcoming challenges. He described Chief Ogbonna as a man of high repute committed to the community’s welfare.
Chief Ofido called for unity among community members, both at home and abroad, emphasizing the need to collectively propel Ogugu forward after 24 years of anticipation.
IMAGE: Journalist101
