Eze Anthony Ohaeri, a hearing-impaired individual, has been coronated as the traditional ruler of Umuawa Alaocha II autonomous community in the Ohuhu clan, Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State.
Eze Ohaeri, the first son of the former traditional ruler, is a member of the Joint National Association of People Living with Disabilities in Abia State.
The ceremony, held at the Umuawa Alaocha community school, saw the Special Assistant to the Abia State Governor on Disability matters, Mr David Anyaele, emphasising the government’s commitment to eliminating barriers for persons with disabilities.
Anyaele highlighted the state’s various programs aimed at improving the welfare of citizens.
Abia State Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons With Disabilities, Mr Wisdom Kalu, described the emergence of Eze Ohaeri as a traditional ruler as historic and a testament to the principle of equality. He noted the significance of the event in bolstering the confidence of persons with disabilities in Abia State.
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Eze Ohaeri, in his first address after the coronation, pledged to adopt an inclusive leadership style, ensuring that every member of the community feels a sense of belonging.
Through an interpreter, he expressed his commitment to collaborating with individuals and the government for sustained socio-economic growth.
The new traditional ruler also called for increased government presence in Umuawa Alaocha II while expressing gratitude to his community and the Abia State government for the opportunity to serve as a traditional ruler despite his hearing impairment.