By :Goodluck E. Adubazi, Abuja.
Oraeri, one of the historic communities that make up Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State, has successfully elected a new Ezenri following the demise of its revered monarch, Ogbuefi Dr. Emmanuel Nriagu.
The Ezenri kingship institution remains one of the most sacred and respected traditional stools in Igboland. The Ezenri is regarded not only as a traditional ruler but also as a spiritual leader of the Nri people, vested with divine authority to perform ancient rites and sacred ceremonies that uphold the cultural heritage of the people.
The keenly contested election took place on January 3 at the Oraeri Town Hall, with three candidates initially presented for the throne: Chief Bartholomew Orakaike, Chief Titus Ogbumba, and Chief Ejike Ugoagbala. Chief Orakaike later withdrew from the race, leaving the contest between Chiefs Ogbumba and Ugoagbala.
Out of a total of 430 votes cast, five votes were declared invalid. Chief Titus Ogbumba polled 116 votes, while Chief Ejike Ugoagbala emerged winner with a commanding 309 votes, clinching victory amid widespread acclaim.
The election was conducted under strict adherence to transparency, accountability, fairness, and orderliness—qualities that earned the process broad acceptance and credibility within and outside the community. The electoral committee, led by Hon. Dr. Emma Ezeokafor, was widely commended for its professionalism and integrity.
Adding national significance to the exercise, the election was observed by Regy and Henry Amazing Grace Foundation, led by Abuja-based philanthropist Dr. Regina Duru. A distinguished daughter of the soil, Dr. Regina Duru Ngozi (née Joseph Obi Udoye), personally witnessed the process as an independent observer.
Speaking after the exercise, Dr. Duru—who has served as an election observer with the Women Situation Room and INEC since 1999—praised the Oraeri community for its resilience, maturity, and peaceful conduct throughout the exercise. She also applauded the electoral committee for a job well done, describing the process as a model of best practice.
Dr. Duru further challenged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to learn from the Oraeri experience, particularly in addressing challenges such as ballot box snatching, vote buying, election racketeering, voter intimidation, and the safety of the electorate.
With the successful conclusion of the election, Oraeri has once again demonstrated that credible, peaceful, and community-driven leadership transitions remain achievable, even in a challenging electoral climate.
