A section of leaders and representatives of Okwuabala Autonomous Community in Orlu Local Government Area of Imo State, led by the community’s President General, Chief Sir. Jude Nwokeji, on Thursday, November 5, 2025, presented Most (Snr.) Apostle Kingsley Innocent (a.k.a. TalknaDo) — who holds the traditional title of Oke Nze Dara Dike Obodo Jiri di Ebube — as their most preferred candidate to ascend the vacant throne of the Traditional Ruler of Okwuabala Ancient Kingdom.
The delegation paid a courtesy visit to the Honourable Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Chief Mrs. Rubby Emele, at her office in Owerri, to formally inform the state government of their choice.
Speaking during the visit, the legal adviser, Barr. Richard Okwudili, expressed appreciation to the Commissioner for granting them audience despite her busy schedule, noting that their mission was to brief her on developments in Okwuabala and to reaffirm their loyalty to the Governor of Imo State, His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma. “We are here to pay a solidarity visit and to appreciate the good work being done by your office under this administration. You are indeed a mother to us in many ways, managing the affairs of local governments and traditional institutions in Imo State,” Barr. Okwudili said.
He informed the Commissioner of the demise of their late traditional ruler, which created a vacuum and subsequent tension over who should succeed him. According to him, the community’s constitution provides for a rotational system among the villages, and based on this principle, the people saw Most Snr. Apostle Kingsley Innocent (TalknaDo) as their most outstanding candidate.
The lawyer further described the cleric as a renowned philanthropist and servant of God who has contributed immensely to the socio-economic development of the community. He listed his achievements, including sponsoring the annual Iriji (New Yam) cultural festival, establishing a filling station, eatery and bakery which have created numerous jobs, and in addition energized the garri processing plant in his Community.
He also highlighted the Apostle’s efforts in fostering peace and security through collaboration between community leaders and youths, as well as his advocacy for partnership with the government’s “Search and Flush” security initiative. The community, he added, has also earmarked a large expanse of land for the siting of a secondary school, and they appealed for the government’s support toward its establishment.
Another member of the delegation, High Chief George Egwuatu, who serves as Chief of Staff to the Chairman, Imo State Council of Traditional Rulers, HRM Eze Dr. E. C. Okeke, CFR, reiterated that TalknaDo has been a pillar of support for both the community and the All Progressives Congress (APC). According to him, Apostle Innocent personally sponsored all APC activities in Okwuabala and even donated an apartment for the party’s secretariat, including his continued financial support to the Okwuabala leading to a healthy financial standing for the community.
The Community Leader, Chief Alosius Obineme, clarified claims of TalknaDo initial non-interest on the race for the Ezeship of Okwuabala autonomous community, the Town Union President, Chief Sir Jude Nwokeji, Youth Leader, Chinedu Sixtus Omeda, Women Leader, Mrs Chuma Rachael Chisom, Chief Hilary Chukwudebelu of Council of Elders, Hon. Ebuka Henry Chukwudebelu (Councillor) who delivered the vote of thanks among others spoke unanimously on endorsing Apostle Innocent as the most reliable, capable, and God-fearing son fit to ascend the ancient throne.
In her response, Hon. Chief Mrs. Emele acknowledged the delegation’s submission and commended their peaceful approach but urged the community to maintain calm and order as the government continues to review the situation surrounding the succession process.
She noted that the Ministry was already aware of the developments, including the presentation of another candidate, Professor Oderaa Unamma, who had earlier been introduced as Eze-elect, and that the government’s priority is to ensure peace and fairness in resolving the matter. “Peace is priceless. I urge everyone to remain calm and law-abiding while the government finalizes its position on the Okwuabala Ezeship issue,” the Commissioner stated. “The administration of Governor Hope Uzodimma remains committed to enthroning a suitable traditional ruler in the best interest of the people of Okwuabala.”
Report By Fredrick Njoku