By our reporter
June 5, 2025, marked a momentous occasion filled with anticipation, pride, and unity for the people of the Proposed Abiaziem Autonomous Community in Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State.
On this remarkable day, the community officially presented their Eze-Elect, High Chief (Dr.) Edward Nnamdi Obasi, to the leadership of Oguta LGA, ably led by the Executive Chairman, Hon. Ifeanyi Nnani, at the Council Headquarters in Oguta.
In alignment with the provisions of the Imo State Autonomous Communities and Chieftaincy Law of 2006, the constitutional presentation of the Eze-Elect signifies a major step toward achieving full autonomy.
The presentation was conducted in a peaceful and well-organized manner, reinforcing the commitment of Abiaziem community stakeholders to lawful and harmonious leadership transition.
According to community sources, the Ezeship of the Proposed Abiaziem Autonomous Community is not hereditary or ambiguous but guided strictly by a constitution that permits competitive selection.
This process also requires approval and blessings from the traditional head of the parent community—His Royal Majesty, Eze Ihezie Felix Ononuju, the Paramount Ruler of AWA Ancient Kingdom.
PROFILE OF THE EZE-ELECT: HIGH CHIEF (DR.) EDWARD NNAMDI OBASI
Presented by Mazi Christian Igwe, Secretary-General of Abiaziem Town Union, Lagos Branch, the comprehensive profile of High Chief Obasi highlights an illustrious academic, professional, and philanthropic journey:
Academic Qualifications:
- Higher National Diploma in Banking & Finance, Federal Polytechnic Nekede – Best Graduating Student
- MBA in Project Management Technology, Federal University of Technology, Owerri
- Associate Member, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) – Best Student Nationwide in 1994/1995 Accountancy Exams
- Fellow, Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (FCCA), UK
- Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), Alberta and Canada
- Member, California USA Board of Accountancy
- Doctorate in Management, Pebble Hills University, Delaware, USA
- Leadership Certification, Harvard Business School, USA
Professional Experience:
Regional Head of SME & Branch Manager, Ecobank Nigeria PLC
Branch Manager, Intercontinental Bank PLC
Operations Manager, Hallmark Bank PLC
COO & Non-Executive Director, DafriGroup PLC, South Africa
Divisional Financial Analyst, Parkland Fuel Corp
Senior Accounting Consultant, Pembina Pipelines Corp
Founder/Owner, Obasi Agro-Allied Farm & Abiaziem Nigeria Ltd
Traditional Titles:
Traditional Prime Minister, Ikenga II of AWA Ancient Kingdom
Ugo Chinyere I of AWA Ancient Kingdom
Awards & Distinctions:
Best Graduating Student in OND, HND, and MBA
Distinction in Monetary Economics and CIBN Accountancy Exams
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVES
High Chief Obasi has consistently demonstrated his commitment to grassroots development and humanitarian service:
Donated ₦1.5 million for enrolling 100 indigent citizens into the Imo Health Insurance Scheme, a flagship health initiative of Governor Hope Uzodimma
Sponsoring 2025 WAEC registration fees for over 50 Abiaziem students across AWA Secondary School, Izombe Secondary Commercial, and Uchenna Secondary School, Awo Mmamma
Constructing an ultra-modern fish farm in Abiaziem
Renovated Abiaziem Town Hall, Anglican Church, and Royal Archive at AWA
Donated public address systems, chairs, and cash to local churches
Rendered consistent philanthropic support to indigent individuals
Personal Life:
He is married to Ugodiya Lolo Ujunwa Amanfo Obasi and they are blessed with six children. A devout Christian, he worships with the Anglican Communion.
ENDORSEMENTS FROM THE COMMUNITY AND TRADITIONAL INSTITUTIONS
Prominent community leaders including Ezinna Godwin Akah Nwosu (former Secretary General), Mazi Christian Igwe, and Mr. Lawrence Okechukwu Akah lauded the leadership qualities, selflessness, and vision of the Eze-Elect.
They noted that his efforts in securing autonomy, advancing youth education, and improving health services have redefined community service.
His Royal Majesty, Eze Ihezie Felix Ononuju, Paramount Ruler of AWA Ancient Kingdom, described High Chief Obasi as a divine gift to the people of Abiaziem.
He acknowledged the Eze-Elect’s pivotal role in accelerating the autonomy process and advised the people to unite behind him for a prosperous future.
OFFICIAL PRESENTATION AND GOVERNMENT RESPONSE
Receiving the delegation, Hon. Ifeanyi Nnani, Executive Chairman of Oguta LGA, commended the orderly and united approach taken by the Proposed Abiaziem Autonomous Community.
He extended special appreciation to Eze Ihezie Ononuju of AWA and Eze Prof. Dele Amuzienwa of Nkwesi for their fatherly support.
Expressing admiration for the sterling credentials of the Eze-Elect, Hon. Nnani pledged to forward the presentation documents to the relevant state authorities for necessary recognition and approval.
He further urged the Eze-Elect to sustain peace, work collaboratively with stakeholders, and promote development within the community.
APPRECIATION FROM THE EZE-ELECT
In his heartfelt remarks, High Chief (Dr.) Edward Nnamdi Obasi expressed deep gratitude to the leadership of Oguta LGA, the royal fathers, and the good people of Abiaziem for entrusting him with the sacred responsibility of kingship.
He pledged to infuse “a digital touch” into traditional leadership and promised inclusive and developmental leadership that prioritizes youth, women, and elders alike.
DIGNITARIES IN ATTENDANCE
Government Officials:
Hon. Ifeanyi Nnani, Executive Chairman, Oguta LGA
Hon. Joseph Oputa, SA to the Governor on ISOPADEC
Hon. Mrs. Ifeoma Ugochukwu, Leader of Oguta Legislative Council
Hon. Arinze Ufere, Deputy Leader
Hon. Ken Mazi, Secretary to the LGA
Hon. Mrs. Ifunanya Ogbenta, DGAS
Hon. Chief Jefferson Amakiri, Supervisor for Works
Hon. Prince Amaechi Muomah
Hon. Philip Ogazi
Various Heads of Departments, Oguta LGA
Traditional Rulers:
HRM Eze Ihezie Felix Ononuju (Ogidiga I of AWA Ancient Kingdom)
HRM Eze Prof. Dele Amuzienwa (Nkwesi Ancient Kingdom)
Others:
Chiefs, Nze na Ozo Title Holders
Abiaziem Town Union Leaders (past and present)
Branch representatives of the Abiaziem Town Union
Political leaders, women groups, youth organizations, and community stakeholders
The official presentation of High Chief (Dr.) Edward Nnamdi Obasi as Eze-Elect stands as a monumental step in the history of the Proposed Abiaziem Autonomous Community—a step toward unity, progress, and royal rebirth.
