By Cajetan Mmuta
The traditional ruler of Awka Kingdom, Anambra State, Obi and Eze Uzu III, His Imperial Majesty, Dr Austin Ndigwe has bestowed on the Vice-Chancellor, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Professor Charles Simone with a Humanitarian Service Award.
He also recognized three members of the community as Palace Patrons who would act as advisers to ensure peace, growth and development in the town.
Speaking during the 2021 Annual Otite Awka festival organized by Obi in Council in collaboration with Awka Development Union, Nigeria (ADUN), Ndigwe said the award was in recognition of the VC’s undying love and commitment towards the development of the community.
He assured Prof. Simone that his community would continue to support the university and his administration towards the realization of set goals and aspirations for a better future.
According to the monarch, “We’re giving you this award today in recognition of the undying love and commitment you have towards the growth and development of the community.
“The award is also in recognition of your showing and giving a listening ear to the plight of the people of Awka by bringing justice to issues about admission and job quota.”
Prof. Simone in his remarks thanked the traditional ruler and people of the Awka community for the show of love and hospitality towards his administration.
He described the people of the area as talented and industrious as could be seen by the calibre of teaching and non-teaching staff of the institution whose contributions have helped to shape the institution, its growth and development in line with his vision.
“Apart from being benevolent, our institution will continue to fulfil its obligation through Corporate Social Responsibility to the people of the area as the host community of the university,” he added.
One of the patrons, Ozo Kanayo Onyechi expressed appreciation to the monarch for finding them worthy of the appointment, pledging to bring their wealth of knowledge and experience to bear in course of their assignments.
He said, “We must advise the monarch so he won’t derail. You know as humans, we’re prone to make mistakes. Two heads are better than one and we’re the second heads to him. All efforts are to make Awka a great kingdom.
“This appointment is given to a high ranking ozo title holder in my community who is versed and grounded in the customs and tradition of the town. It’s also given to one who commands respect and has contributed immensely to the growth and development of the community.”
He added, “Awka has come to be good with the Eze Uzu the III in power. Gone were the days the community was ridden with the crisis. Everyone can now sleep with his two eyes closed with the level of peace and tranquillity existing in the town.
“The pockets of cultisms are gradually drying up. Those fomenting troubles have come to realize their mistakes and appreciate that Awka is indivisible. They’re now coming together.
“The state government is already seeing our point, and very soon, it will realize it can’t continue with the divide and rule game. Today, Eze Uzu and all of us are saying enough is enough.”
