South East Council of Traditional Rulers Honours High Chief Duru Mike Ejiogu with Onowu of Igboland Title

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The conferment, held during the 25th coronation anniversary of HRM Eze Dr. E. C. Okeke in Owerri, celebrated Ejiogu’s philanthropy, enterprise, and enduring service to Ndigbo.

Owerri, the Imo State capital, stood still on Saturday, August 23, 2025, as culture, tradition, and celebration converged in a historic gathering at the Eze Imo Palace. Custodians of Igbo heritage, political leaders, captains of industry, and opinion moulders assembled to mark the 25th coronation anniversary of His Royal Majesty, Eze Dr. E. C. Okeke CFR (Ezeudo II of Amaifeke Kingdom), Chairman of the Imo State and South East Council of Traditional Rulers.

The highlight of the grand ceremony was the conferment of the Onowu of Igboland chieftaincy title on High Chief Duru Mike Ejiogu, Chairman of Citygate Homes—an illustrious son of Imo State, visionary industrialist, philanthropist, and community leader. Beside him stood his wife, Lolo Ijeoma Ejiogu (Osodieme of Igboland), as the honour was bestowed.

This rare and prestigious recognition was not merely ceremonial; it was a resounding affirmation of High Chief Ejiogu’s lifelong commitment to enterprise, philanthropy, youth empowerment, and community development.

The ceremony drew an august gathering of dignitaries, including Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, who lauded the enduring role of traditional institutions as “pillars of unity and progress.” The presence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, represented by the Honourable Minister of Works, Sen. David Umahi, further underscored the federal government’s respect for culture and traditional leadership.

The event also saw strong representation from the Akuluno United Brothers Association—a pan-Igbo socio-cultural elite group dedicated to driving economic and social development in the South East. Notable members included Chief Ebere Goodwill Uzozie (Chairman, GU Ebeko Group), High Chief Uche Umeh (Omeiheukwu of Imo State), Chief Evans Emesim (Okwumereze of Ukpor Mbadike Kingdom), High Chief Anthony Ikenna Obele, Dr. Chidiebere Gideon Osi (President, Gosima Group), Amb. Dr. Emmanuel Odoh (Odogwu Na Nsukka), and several other prominent Igbo sons and daughters.

As the royal drums resounded and the air swelled with cultural pride, High Chief Duru Mike Ejiogu’s investiture as Onowu Igboland became more than a personal milestone. It was a defining moment for Ndigbo—an affirmation that leadership rooted in service, honour, and cultural preservation will always command celebration.

Speaking after his conferment, High Chief Ejiogu declared:
“This honour is a call to deeper service. By God’s grace, I will continue to use my life, resources, and influence in service to humanity and the preservation of our heritage.”