It was an honour for Chief Jude Edemodu when he was selected for the traditional title of Ojede of Ubulu-Okiti by his people for his exemplary character and community service over the years; he immediately set out to make the occasion a memorable one.
But it is said that behind every successful man, there is a woman, hence, Edemodu, who has carved a niche in real estate in Lagos, decided to consult with his wife. He discovered that she was not comfortable with the idea. “My wife was afraid that as a chief, I would marry a second wife to compliment my new status.”
Edemodu said he made her to understand that being a chief is not a ticket to having more wives.
“I have two sons and two daughters from her, which makes me feel fulfilled, so I don’t need a second wife,” he said.
Assuring her that he would not follow the footsteps of people who saw many wives as one of the accompaniments of wealth and prestige, the family started preparing for the auspicious occasion which finally came last Saturday amidst pomp and ceremony at the palace of the Obi of Ubulu-Okiti, HRM, Obi Edward Isichei JP.
Friends and business associates of the celebrant thronged the Edemodu family compound filled with the usual turnout in numbers of indigenes of the community anytime Edemodu, a benefactor of many families is celebrating. This time, it brought added colour as the compound was filled with the immaculate white of the native attire known as Akwa Ocha adorned with colourful red beads.
Edemodu, whose father is the Onishe of Ubulu-Okiti, said he is not new to traditional matters. “Everywhere my father goes, I see the way he is honoured,” hence, even by his age, when invited by the traditional council of the community, Edemodu decided that he would present himself for the Chieftaincy title as the Ojede of Ubulu-Okiti.
Resplendently dressed in white attire and red wrapper adorned with red beads, the couple proceeded in a procession to the Obi’s palace, escorted by a convoy of cars belonging to friends and associates while the people danced to traditional lyrics which was played in tow.
Edemodu and his wife came into the royal hall, at about 1:05 pm. HRM, Obi Edward Isichei came into his royal court accompanied by three other traditional rulers who came with their wives, the Obi of Ubulu-Unor, Obi (Dr.) Kikachukwu, Obi of Ugbodu, HRM, Obi Isinyemeze and Obi of Ezi, Obi Mohanyelim.
After the traditional chalking, Edemodu was presented with the instruments of office and also his wife as his queen.
Obi Isichei then proclaimed him the Ojede of Ubulu-Okiti, a title he will be greeted by from that day hence.
Edemodu said the honour will motivate him to do more for his people.
“I am planning to provide security vans and gadgets to help the vigilante group function better.”
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