Chief Ezekiel Nwifuru Nwankpu, the father of Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru, has been crowned the traditional ruler of Oferekpe Agbaja Autonomous Community in Izzi Local Government Area, Ebonyi State.
The coronation ceremony, held over the weekend, was attended by prominent figures including former governors Sam Egwu, Martin Elechi, and David Umahi, alongside other stakeholders in the state.
A Family of Unusual Size
Ezeogo Nwifuru Nwankpu, a well-known farmer, was previously married to 30 wives. Over time, those unable to bear children left the marriage, leaving 17 wives currently living with him. He has fathered 108 children from these marriages, including Governor Francis Nwifuru, who is the son of his fourth wife.
Remarkably, 21 of these children have become university graduates, a feat achieved largely through the efforts of their mothers.
New Role as Traditional Ruler
The new monarch now oversees 17 villages as the Chibugo 1 of Oferekpe Agbaja Autonomous Community, which was carved out from the larger Agbaja community in Izzi Local Government Area. Governor Nwifuru officially presented his father with a certificate and staff of office, in accordance with the state’s law on Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters.
A Story of Perseverance
During the event, Governor Nwifuru recounted his family’s struggles with dejection, intimidation, and land disputes in the community. He revealed that the site of his father’s coronation, Oferekpe Agbaja Primary School II, was once part of their family’s land, which was forcibly taken by villagers.
The governor described his father as a hardworking and hospitable man who turned to farming for success. He explained that his father’s decision to marry multiple wives was driven by the need for companionship and assistance in his farming pursuits, especially during a period of hostility and isolation from the community.
Governor’s Appeal for Unity
Governor Nwifuru urged his father to use his new position to promote peace, fairness, and justice in the community, cautioning against seeking revenge for past wrongs.
“Do not use this revered position to seek revenge or perpetuate injustice. Rather, let it be a symbol of unity, fairness, and service to humanity,” the governor said.
The coronation underscores the family’s resilience and the pivotal role of traditional institutions in fostering community development.
