Maxim Uzoatu
Royalty was in full throttle when His Royal Highness, Igwe Raphael Okpaleke, the venerated Igwe Akalabo III of Amesi, in Anambra State, conferred deserving chieftaincy titles on Joachim and Robert Umeozulu, during his 2nd Ofala Festival that marked the third year of his reign on Thursday, January 2, 2025.
It was a grand fest that drew the crème da la crème of society as Joachim Umeozulu bowed in grace to receive his Ichie Chukwuka title by merit, while his brother Robert was bestowed with the title of Aku-Yie-Nwata-Egwu II, after his legendary father, Chief B.O Umeozulu, founder of the pioneer business conglomerate Amesi Commercial Enterprises (ACE) Ltd.
In the spirit of every successful personage being backed up by an Amazon of repute, Joachim received the honour with his charming wife, Lolo Rufina, while Robert stood tall alongside his winsome wife, Lolo (Dr) Vivian Umeozulu.
In a glowing tribute entitled “Elevation of Two Brothers to the Esteemed Nobility Ranks of Ichieship,” a distinguished schoolmate and townsman of the brothers, Ichie (Engr.) Godwin Ubanyionwu, P.E. (Ugochinyere I of Amesi), penned thusly: “Behold a spectacle of grandeur and brilliance as the two illustrious brothers ascended the stage with scintillating grace and unparalleled elegance adorned with their well-deserved Chieftaincy titles. Joachim Umeozulu now stands as Ichie Chukwuka, a beacon of steadfastness, while Robert Umeozulu takes on the distinguished mantle of Ichie Akuyie Nwata Egwu II of Amesi, epitomizing honour and cultural pride. Adding to the radiance of this event was the newly crowned Lolo Rufina Umeozulu, Joachim’s wife, whose presence was nothing short of enchantment. With elegance and panache, she sashayed and graced the Ofala platform; her eyes illuminated the arena with dazzling light, and the mesmerizing swirls of her dress unleashed a river of imagination, captivating all who beheld her.
“As we reflect on this remarkable occasion, let us remember that a man can go hither and thither, and do this and that, but in the end, he measures himself and is measured by the principles upon which he makes his stand. Truly, we are made better through introspection and reflection, for inside each happy heart, every reflection engenders a song and a dance.
“The Akalabo Festival of 2024 in Amesi stands as a monumental celebration, elevating two of our Old Boys Association (St Peter’s Secondary School, Achina) members to celestial heights of recognition and honour. This historic event is not merely a celebration but the culmination of years of dedicated service and the sui generis contributions to the Amesi community. Whether from their vantage points in the United States or firmly rooted on the cherished soil of motherland, their endeavours have profoundly impacted considerable lives, bringing immense pride to our people.
“To all the celebrants, I offer my delightful and profound congratulations! They have not only earned this moment of triumph but also the warm embrace of prodigious friendship and solicitude from a grateful and admiring community. Guided by your altruistic spirit and progressive vision, the dawn of the Abọnwagu region’s greatest days is yet to come.”
In the camaraderie of the epoch-making event, Joachim (Ichie Chukwuka) and Robert (Ichie Akuyie) were joined in the groove by their old mates and lifelong friends such as the Osuorah brothers Arthur and Chuma, Sir Joe Okpala, Ogbuefi Dona Azubike, Ichie Ugochinyere and this reporter, yours truly.
The ever rendering Umeozulu brothers, Joachim and Robert, are richly worthy of celebration for representing the best in humankind.
Royalty bespeaks them in every facet of being as splendid advertisements and ambassadors of the community, Igbo heritage and the Nigerian nation at large.
Let’s toast to the great health of Chief IkeChukwuka and Chief Akuyienwataegwu!
