The monarch of Arochukwu in Abia State, Dr Eberechukwu Oji, has promised to unite the people of the ancient kingdom for progress and development.

Mr Oji made the vow on Saturday at a ceremony in Arochukwu to celebrate his coronation and ascension to the throne.

His speech was entitled “History beckons: A brighter future begins in Aro Kingdom.”

He said that the path to reclaiming the lost opportunities and rekindling progress demands a foundation built upon trust, understanding and harmony.

He stated, “Our kingdom’s strength lies in the bonds that tie us together as one indomitable force. With humility, magnanimity and selflessness, I vow to bridge the divides that have hindered our progress. I promise to lead with the fear of God and respect for everyone. I am committed to bringing utmost dignity and attract the highest respect to the throne of Eze Aro, commanding national estimation and recognition as a first class monarchy.”

The royal father, who emerged after a long-drawn kingship tussle with other princes in the family, extended an olive branch to other aspirants to the throne.

He added, “The Eze Aro throne has been a symbol of our collective strength, unity and cherished traditions. The recent contestations for the throne were not merely trials of ambition but tests of our resolve. Today, I extend my hand in brotherhood to all the princes of our dear kingdom for in unity lies our true power. Our elders say, ‘Gidi gidi bu ugwu eze’ (unity is strength). Unity and wisdom have preserved our ancient kingdom through the centuries. It was unity and resilience that helped the Arochukwu Kingdom survive the British invasion of 1901 and continue to thrive today.

“Now, more than ever, we need that unity of purpose to reinforce our commitment to our kingdom’s legacy.”

Mr Oji promised to continue to engage in regional and national efforts that aligned with his agenda of elevating the Aro kingdom to new heights of glory and development.

He pledged to lead a renaissance, harnessing the ingenuity of the people “to reclaim our heritage and forge a path to a stronger, more prosperous future. Our kingdom, once the beacon of Igbo civilisation, must rise again to its rightful place of prominence.’’

He appealed to the people to join hands with him, saying, “I cannot do it alone.

He said, “I will need the wise counsel of our elders and support of everyone to write a new chapter in our history. Together we will revive our cultural heritage, enhance our educational institutions and promote economic initiatives that will restore the enviable glory of Arochukwu.”

In a brief remark at the event that brought home prominent sons and daughters of the town, the state governor, Alex Otti, who hails from the area, expressed delight over the choice of Mr Oji.

Mr Otti said that the majority of Aro people were happy with Mr Oji’s emergence as the new traditional ruler.

He said that “power comes from God” and any society that does not have leadership is cursed.

“Gone are the days, all over the world, when people chose their worst rather than their best. I want to say, without the fear of contradiction, that the Aro people made the best choice,” he said.

He expressed confidence that as an accomplished and prosperous personality, with proven integrity, honesty and hard work, Mr Oji would deploy his personal resources in the development of Aro “than putting his hand in the till of the community.”

He, therefore, urged the people to give him the necessary support to succeed in taking the town to greatness.

The event was attended by the leadership of the state Council of Traditional Rulers and royal fathers from different parts of the country.

Also at the ceremony was a high-level delegation of senior pastors from the Redeemed Christian Church of God, where Mr Oji serves as a pastor.

(NAN)