On Friday, March 14, 2025, the Imo State Council of Traditional Rulers officially elected Eze Fredric Nwachukwu as its new Deputy Chairman following the passing of Eze David Osuagwu, who previously held the position.
The election took place at the Owerri Zone Council of Traditional Rulers’ office in the Imo State Council Headquarters, Ezeimo Palace, Mbari, Owerri. The ceremony was attended by several traditional rulers, all dressed in their traditional attire to witness the formal opening of the Deputy Chairman’s office.
Eze C. Okeke, Chairman of the Imo State Council of Traditional Rulers, led the event and prayed for Nwachukwu’s peaceful and successful reign. He remarked that “nature abhors a vacuum,” explaining that the new Deputy Chairman’s appointment was necessary to ensure the continuity of the Council’s activities.
Before his election, Eze Nwachukwu was the traditional custodian of Ngor Ancient Kingdom, Chairman of the Ngor Okpala LGA Council of Traditional Rulers, and the acting Chairman of the Owerri Zone Council of Traditional Rulers.
In his remarks, Eze Okeke, who is also the Chairman of the South East Council of Traditional Rulers, requested a minute of silence in honor of the late Eze Osuagwu. He stressed that the appointment of Nwachukwu was vital for the continued progress of the Owerri Zone Traditional Rulers’ activities.
Eze Okeke further explained that Nwachukwu would serve as the acting Deputy Chairman until he is officially recognized by the Governor of the State. He encouraged Nwachukwu to stay committed to his role and fulfill the high expectations of the Council and the State Government.
The new Deputy Chairman, Eze Nwachukwu, expressed his gratitude for the support and blessings of Ezeimo. He pledged to seek divine guidance in his duties and vowed to rally the Traditional Rulers of Owerri Zone to support the Chairman of the State Council. His first official duty included the royal breaking of the kola nut, a significant tradition.
