by George Ozalla
Warm embraces, friendly banter and open displays of affection defined proceedings on Monday, December 29, 2025, as members of Umuodebe Kindred converged for their end-of-year meeting in Umuonoli, Ezeoye Quarters of Nibo town, Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State, where the incumbent executive committee led by Nze Ebele Nwegwu was re-elected to continue in office.
The gathering, which brought together members of Umuodebe Kindred from within and outside the community, began with moments of fraternal interaction and informal exchanges before transitioning into deliberations on the affairs of the kindred. The meeting later progressed to a keenly followed election process conducted in a calm and transparent manner by the appointed returning officers, Mr Chukwudi George Ozalla and Somadina Eze.
At the conclusion of the exercise, Nze Ebele Nwegwu (Ukwu Akpo Mbe) was returned as chairman with 37 votes. Christian Ezunu (Mazi Igbo) emerged as vice chairman with 38 votes, while Igwedinma Ebenebe (Ezedinma) secured 40 votes to retain the position of secretary. Chuka Anyanwu was re-elected assistant secretary with 38 votes, Samuel Okafor (Ndubuluililo) returned as financial secretary with 38 votes, and Nze Ifeanyi Obi (Nwawelugo) re-emerged as treasurer with 37 votes. Okechukwu Ezunu was re-elected chief provost with 33 votes, Chibuzor Ekwuozor emerged provost two with 29 votes, Ralu Ezunu (Ezejiego) returned as welfare officer one with 34 votes, Ebele Okeke (Odugboo) as welfare officer two with 31 votes, while Peter Okonkwo retained the office of public relations officer with 31 votes.
Speaking on behalf of the re-elected executive during his acceptance remarks, the chairman, Nze Ebele Nwegwu, thanked members of the general house for the renewed confidence reposed in them. He assured the kindred of their commitment to collective leadership, accountability and sustained unity and development, noting that the mandate would be used to deepen harmony and pursue projects beneficial to all.
The meeting also set the stage for the Umuodebe Kindred end-of-year party and project launch holding later on Tuesday 30th. December, 2025 at Umuonoli hall, during which funds are expected to be raised for the construction of a proposed Umuodebe Plaza. Members described the project as a major step towards providing a lasting investment for present and future generation, promote cultural activities and social engagements of the kindred.
Umuodebe Kindred is part of Umuonoli in Ezeoye Quarters of Nibo town, a community in Awka South Local Government Area known for its strong kinship bonds and emphasis on communal development.
