By Iheanyi Enwerem
The Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport in Owerri erupted into a vibrant cultural carnival as the traditional ruler of Isiama Autonomous Community, HRH Eze Dr. Oliver Chinedu Ohanweh (Obi Gburu Gburu), made a grand return to Imo State following a month-long medical treatment at the renowned Liv Hospital in Istanbul, Turkey. Arriving aboard a ValueJet flight alongside his wife, Ugoeze Ruth Ohanweh, the revered monarch was greeted on the tarmac by hundreds of overjoyed subjects, traditional cabinet members, cultural troupes, and prominent dignitaries celebrating his full recovery and clean bill of health.
IKoro Okigwe observed that the airport transformed into a sea of colorful regalia, praise singing, and traditional drumming, with royal guards and airport personnel according the traditional ruler a fitting reception. A major highlight of the tarmac arrival was an energetic performance by the women of Isiama in synchronized traditional outfits, which delighted the onlookers as Eze Ohanweh and his wife personally joined the troupe on the dance floor.
During the airport reception, the kingdom’s administrative leadership—led by President-General Emeka Iwueze, Esq., Cabinet Chairman Prince Chukwuma Ohanweh, Cabinet Secretary Chief Kevin Ihekwoaba, and PRO Chief Zeb Onuegbu—presented a formal two-page welcome address. The address, read by Chief Onuegbu, described the monarch’s return as a moment of immense joy and spiritual restoration, noting that the entire community from home and the Diaspora had gathered not just to receive a king, but to welcome back their pride, light, and father.
Visibly moved by the overwhelming turnout, Eze Ohanweh attributed his complete recovery to the grace of God and the expertise of a medical team comprising nearly 11 consultants and professors in Istanbul. The monarch declared himself fully renewed and expressed deep relief at being declared fit to resume his royal duties, adding that the intense demonstration of affection by his people made him appreciate the bond between the throne and the kingdom even more.
The monarch extended profound gratitude to key individuals who supported him during his health trial, offering special prayers for Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, for his exceptional compassion and unconditional love. He also acknowledged the vital roles played by prominent business leader Chief Tony Chukwu, HRM Eze Dr. Cletus Ilomuanya, industrialist Chief (Dr.) Alexander Chika Okafor (OON), and Government House Chaplain Rev. Fr. Gilbert Alaribe, who offered continuous spiritual guidance throughout his treatment.
The grand homecoming culminated at the Wisdom Palace in Isiama, Isiala Mbano LGA, where the monarch was honored with a traditional seven-cannon gun salute amid cheers from hundreds of constituents. The palace grounds hosted a lavish feast featuring local delicacies, rich cultural performances, and traditional music, bringing the day to a close in an atmosphere of thanksgiving and renewed hope for the kingdom’s future.