Nkanu Royal Fathers Endorse Governor Peter Mbah for 2027, Present Ofo Staff in Symbolic Show of Support
Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has received a major political and cultural endorsement ahead of the 2027 general elections, as royal fathers from Nkanu land publicly declared their support for his administration and leadership. The endorsement was symbolised through the presentation of the Ofo staff, a revered Igbo emblem of authority, moral uprightness, and ancestral legitimacy.
The endorsement took place on Friday during the 50th coronation anniversary celebration of His Royal Majesty, Igwe Fidelis Ogbu Nwatu, the traditional ruler of Ihuokpara in Nkanu East Local Government Area. Igwe Nwatu is also the Grand Patron of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council. The ceremony drew a wide array of dignitaries from across the state and beyond, blending cultural heritage with contemporary political significance.
Presenting the Ofo staff on behalf of the Nkanu traditional rulers, Igwe Nwatu, alongside the Chairman of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, His Royal Majesty Igwe Samuel Asadu, cited what they described as Governor Mbah’s exceptional performance in office, landmark infrastructure projects, and governance style. According to the royal fathers, Enugu State has witnessed notable progress under Mbah’s leadership, prompting their collective decision to endorse him for a second term.
In his response, Governor Mbah expressed deep gratitude to the elders and traditional rulers of Nkanu land, describing the honour as profound and spiritually significant. He noted that in Igbo tradition, the Ofo staff goes beyond symbolism, representing trust, justice, and a sacred bond between leadership, the people, and the ancestors.
“What I am holding is not just a symbol,” Mbah said. “Our traditional rulers are the representatives of our ancestors. This endorsement is not ordinary; it is authority and trust conferred on me by my own people. It is an honour that cannot be compared to any other.”
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The governor acknowledged that the endorsement carried responsibility and expectations, assuring the people of Enugu State that he would continue to serve with humility, integrity, and unwavering commitment. He pledged to dedicate all his energy and capacity to governance that would justify the confidence reposed in him by the traditional institution.
Governor Mbah also paid glowing tribute to Igwe Nwatu on his golden jubilee on the throne, describing his 50 years of reign as evidence of divine favour and communal approval. He remarked that such longevity in leadership could only be achieved through selfless service and acceptance by the people.
“Fifty years on the throne is not by force,” Mbah said. “If a ruler has served his people for five decades and is celebrated this way, it shows honour, wisdom, and dedication. On behalf of the government and people of Enugu State, we congratulate him and pray for many more years of service.”
In a significant policy announcement, Governor Mbah reassured traditional rulers across Enugu State of improved welfare beginning from January 2026. He revealed that the state budget had prioritised the welfare of traditional rulers, acknowledging their role as custodians of culture, values, and communal memory.
“When you receive your alerts from January 2026 going forward, you will feel a difference,” he said, promising substantial improvements that would “bring excitement.” He also announced plans to provide vehicles to principal officers of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council.
The event also featured the unveiling of a book authored by Igwe Nwatu titled “Leadership as Service: A Portrait of Stewardship, Justice and Peace,” as well as the cutting of a golden jubilee cake by the celebrant, flanked by Governor Mbah and other dignitaries.
Prominent attendees included former Senate President Ken Nnamani, Chief Patricia Nwobodo—the wife of a former governor of old Anambra State—as well as political leaders, captains of industry, and guests from across Nigeria and the diaspora.
The endorsement by Nkanu royal fathers is widely seen as a significant boost to Governor Mbah’s political standing, particularly within Enugu State’s traditional and grassroots structures, as conversations around the 2027 elections gradually gather momentum.