The Igwe of Imeoha Nkerefi, His Royal Highness Igwe Luke Ogbu Ogbuta Okorie (Eze Anyanaecheoha I), has delivered a heartfelt Christmas message calling for unity, peace, and accelerated development across Nkerefi, Enugu State, and Nigeria.
In his Christmas address on December 25, 2025, the monarch extended warm greetings to the people of Nkerefi, residents of Enugu State, Nigerians at home and abroad, and friends of the community worldwide. He described Christmas as a season that embodies peace, unconditional love, and renewed hope, urging citizens to remain grateful to God for protection amid the year’s challenges.
Igwe Okorie encouraged individuals and communities to reject crime, drug abuse, hatred, and division, stressing the need to embrace unity and moral renewal. He highlighted the importance of investing in education, youth empowerment, women’s protection, and care for the elderly, noting that sustainable development depends on collective responsibility.
Commendation of Enugu State Government
The traditional ruler commended Governor Peter Mbah for what he described as visible progress in education, healthcare delivery, road infrastructure, and balanced urban-rural development across the state.
He specifically acknowledged the ongoing Evuna Bridge project and the appointment of Nkerefi indigenes into positions of responsibility, describing them as signs of inclusive governance. The monarch offered prayers for wisdom, unity, and strength for the governor and his team, expressing hope that their leadership would continue to enhance security, prosperity, and investor confidence in Enugu State.
Call for Emergency on Agbani–Nkerefi Road
Igwe Okorie, however, raised serious concern over the deteriorated condition of the Agbani–Nkerefi Road, describing it as a decades-long crisis that has inflicted hardship on farmers, traders, students, pregnant women, and other residents.
He appealed to the Enugu State Government to declare a state of emergency on the road in 2026, noting that repeated promises to reconstruct it have remained unfulfilled. Speaking as a traditional ruler and not a politician, he said the appeal reflects the collective suffering of his people.
According to him, Nkerefi’s strategic position as a border community makes the road’s reconstruction urgent for economic growth, security, and regional connectivity.
Message of Compassion and Hope
The monarch also urged citizens to show compassion to the poor, hungry, and sick during the Christmas season, stressing that true greatness is measured by the number of lives uplifted.
He concluded by wishing the world peace, good health, and progress, while offering prayers and blessings for Nkerefi, Enugu State, Nigeria, and humanity at large.