His Royal Majesty, Igwe Samuel Asadu (Igwe Ogadagidi), the Traditional Ruler of Edem-Ani Ogwugwu Ancient kingdom in Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu State has reiterated his pledge to continue to rule his people with love, justice and fear of God.
Asadu who is the Chairman of Enugu State Council of Traditional Rulers said this over the weekend during an interdenominational service that preceded his maiden Ofala Festival ceremony on Saturday.
He prayed to God to continue to guide him so that the will of God would subdue his pride in order to align his desire to the perfect purpose of God.
"I dedicate to you my heart, fill it with love and justice for my people. I dedicate to you my will, subdue my pride and align my desires with your perfect purpose.
"Let my throne be founded on Your truth, my reign be a reflection of Your mercy and my legacy be one of faithful service," he said.
Speaking further, the royal father said "When I am weak be my strength, when I am confused be my light, when I am tempted be my shield, I offer this prayer and my life to You, rule in me that I may rule for You," Asadu prayed to God.
In a sermon, Venerable Christian Eze, Archdeacon of Eden Archdeaconry who preached on behalf of other clerics urged God the creator and preserver of mankind who blessed the people of Edemani with a rich cultural heritage and tradition to make the Ofala festival a symbol of renewal of unity and peace.
"Grant your servant Igwe Asadu your heavenly grace, wisdom and strength to lead his people with justice and compassion that they may continue to be united in God's love.
"Grant the traditional ruler who honours you as his creator by starting this Ofala with church service with long and happy reign by strengthening him so that he may vanquish and overcome all his enemies," he said.
The cleric commended Asadu whom he said his traditional stool had not only brought peace and unity in his community but numerous developments that have impacted positively on the people of Edem-Ani Ogwugwu and beyond.
Our correspondent reports that the main Ofala festival started after church service with the presentation of Kolanut by Igwe Asadu to his guests which include traditional rulers, the clergy, government officials, captains of industry, town union presidents, youth leaders market leaders as well as friends and well-wishers from different walks of life.
The celebrant in a word of welcome expressed appreciation to guests who travelled from far and near in spite of their tight schedules to attend his first Ofala, noting that their presence demonstrated the volume of love and regard they have for him as well as the people of Edem-Ani Ogwugwu Ancient Kingdom.
"I appreciate the presence of everybody here today in this my first Ofala festival, may God bless and grant you all journey mercies back to your respective destinations," he said.
Igwe Asadu explained that the occasion would be used to confer chieftaincy titles to some Nigerians in the country who have distinguished themselves in their various field of life as well as rendered selfless service to humanity.
The colourful Ofala has been described by many as one of the best in recent times, as guests from different tribes and religions grace the occasion
Our reporter also reported that assorted traditional dancers and masquerades from different LGAs in Enugu State lavishly entertained guests.
Our correspondent reports that, Her Majesty, Lolo Eberechukwu Asadu the wife of Asadu, some of his children who returned from the United States of America were on hand to give support as well as add colour to the festival.
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