The traditional ruler of Obosi community in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, His Majesty Igwe Chidubem Iweka (Eze Iweka III), has installed three additional ‘Ndiichies’ to occupy the exalted chieftaincy cabinet stool in the community.

Igwe Iweka said the move; coming after 30 years by the famous traditional institution is to fortify the Ndiichies for the onerous tasks ahead, was perfected at the weekend with the installation of an additional three Ndiichies to occupy the exalted chieftaincy cabinet stool in the area.

South-East  gathered that Ndiichie, also known as the “esteemed ancestor” spirits, hold a significant place in traditional Igbo society, as they are respected elders who are highly revered in Igbo society. The Ndiichies are often consulted for guidance and advice. The Ndiichie appeals to the Alusi (deities or spirits) on behalf of their descendants.

The installation ceremony, which was performed by the traditional ruler of Obosi, Igwe Iweka, during a colourful ceremony, was witnessed by first-class members of Obosi royal cabinet, including Chief Godwin Osakwe (Odu Nkata Ukwu Obosi), Chief Hyman Udemba, (Akamkposi Obosi), Chief Linus Mgbakogu (Attah Obosi), and Chief Dr. Ndudi Monago (Igweoba Obosi), among others.

The newly installed cabinet members were Chief Francis Ogbogu from Umuota village, who was installed as Ichie Abummadu of Obosi; Chief Ikechukwu Onwuekwe from Ire village, who was installed as Omodi Daike of Obosi and Chief Samuel Nwobi from Ugamuma village, who was installed as Asegba Igbala of Obosi.

Performing the installation ceremony in Obosi kingdom, at the weekend, the traditional ruler noted that the Ndiichies were picked from their various villages to assist in maintaining the smooth running of Obosi chieftaincy cabinet, based on their antecedents, clouts, and exploits in their various fields of human endeavours.

He expressed optimum that with their inclusion as members of the “revered Obosi royal cabinet, Obosi as a frontline urban community would wax stronger among its contemporaries.”

He said, “Today, we installed our Ndiichies, they are the special category of chiefs in the royal cabinet, which would assist the traditional ruler in his function to the community. This community has not had this category of chiefs for a very long time, because we needed to abide strictly by the laid down criteria.

“This is a big event that we have not done for nearly 30 years. In selecting the Ndiichies, the community chose them based on their character, antecedents, and community service. They have been tested and trusted and they are men of proven integrity.

“You know Obosi community is rich in men of character and proven integrity, the former Commonwealth Secretary-General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku is from this community. We also have other retired and active professionals from different fields. So, the Ndiichies are expected to assist the royal cabinet in ensuring the smooth running of the community.”

On the issue of cultism, youth restiveness, and other social vices which had hitherto retarded progress in Obosi community in the past, Igwe Iweka described those vices as a thing of the past, adding that the royal cabinet in collaboration with other peace-loving Ndichies and the Obosi town union leadership have fought those “cankerworms” to a standstill, which led to the restoration of peace and stability in the area.

The traditional ruler also urged the lawmakers to go ahead and pass the bill against open grazing in the country, which is currently before the National Assembly.

He said it is no longer in doubt that the open grazing method of cattle rearing has caused more harm than good as well as disaffection towards corporate existence in the country, adding that the normal thing all over the world today is the ranching method.

He said, “Open grazing is a stimulant to war. It leads to killings between the herders and farmers. It causes skirmishes in communities. It is quite outdated and an invitation to anarchy, hunger, and starvation. It should be discouraged and replaced with ranching method as applicable in other parts of the world.”

Responding in separate interviews, the three newly installed Ndiichies, Chiefs Ogbogu, Onwuekwe, and Nwobi, commended Igwe Iweka and other cabinet members for deeming them fit for the positions and pledged their loyalty and determination to contribute their quota towards the elevation of Obosi community to an enviable status.