The Obi of Onitsha is the traditional ruler of Onitsha, a city in Anambra State, Nigeria. The state and federal governments recognize the Obi’s role.
However, the Obi acts as a spokesperson for the people of Onitsha, representing their interests to higher government levels.
List Of Obi Of Onitsha From Mid-16th Century Till Date
| No | Name | Period |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | (Eze) Chima | Mid-16th century |
| 2 | Oreze | 16th–17th century |
| 3 | Chimaevi | 17th century |
| 4 | Chimukwu | 17th century |
| 5 | Chimaezi | 17th century |
| 6 | Nafia | 17th century |
| 7 | Tasia | 17th century |
| 8 | Eze Aroli | 17th–18th century |
| 9 | Chimedie | 18th century |
| 10 | Omozele | 18th century |
| 11 | Ezeolisa | 18th century |
| 12 | Ijelekpe | 18th–19th century |
| 13 | Udogwu | C. 1820 |
| 14 | Akazue | 1840–1873 |
| 15 | Diali | 1873–1874 |
| 16 | Anazonwu | 1874–1899 |
| 17 | Samuel Okosi | 1901–1931 |
| 18 | James Okosi | 1935–1961 |
| 19 | Joseph Okwudili Onyejekwe | 1962–1970 |
| 20 | Ofala Okechukwu Okagbue | 1970–2001 |
| 21 | Alfred Achebe | 2002–present |
Who Is The First Obi Of Onitsha In Anambra?
The first Obi of Onitsha in Anambra State was Eze Chima, who is sometimes called Ezechima. Eze Chima came from Benin, but there was a conflict in his homeland about who should be the king.
Because of this disagreement, he decided to leave his home. Chima took many followers with him, and together they started a journey.
During their journey, they traveled a long way until they reached the Niger River. When they got there, the group had to make a big decision.
They split into two smaller groups. One part of the group, which included some of Chima’s followers, decided to go south to a place called Aboh.
The other part, led by Chima’s eldest son, Oreze, crossed the Niger River. They moved into a new area that is now known as Onitsha Inland Town.
Oreze, who took the lead after crossing the river, became the first king of this new settlement. Although Eze Chima did not live to see Onitsha, his spirit and legacy continued through his son, Oreze.
Eze Chima and his descendants were given the title “Eze,” which means king. This title later became the official name for the traditional leader of Onitsha.
The duty of the Obi is influential in Onitsha culture and history. It represents leadership and the continuation of Chima’s legacy through his family.
Today, the Obi of Onitsha is still regarded as a powerful figure in the community, connecting the past to the present and ensuring that the traditions and values of the Onitsha people are preserved for future generations.
Who Is The Current Obi Of Onitsha In Anambra?
Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe is the current Obi of Onitsha. He has been the Obi since May 14, 2002. The title of Obi in Onitsha is unique because it is not given through a formal crowning ceremony; instead, the new Obi emerges through a traditional process.
Nnaemeka Achebe succeeded Obi Okechukwu Okagbue, who ruled from 1970 until his passing in 2001. Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe was born on May 14, 1941, in Onitsha, Anambra State, Nigeria.
He attended Government Secondary School in Owerri and later earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from Stanford University in 1966.
He also holds a Master of Business Administration from Columbia University. Before becoming the Obi, Achebe worked at Shell Petroleum Company.
He served as a director for several Shell companies not only in Nigeria but also in other countries, including the UK and Ghana. Also, Achebe has been the Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University since 2015.
He was also the Chancellor of Kogi State University and has served as the chairman of the board of directors for Unilever Nigeria and International Breweries. Achebe is also involved in community development and education.
As a traditional ruler, Obi Achebe has also been active in promoting cultural understanding and cooperation between Nigeria and other countries. He has been a representative on different panels and committees focused on improving the oil sector in Nigeria.
He was instrumental in major inquiries into the country’s petroleum industry, including serving as the chairman of a presidential inquiry into fuel shortages in 2003.
Throughout his career, Achebe has received many honors for his service to the community and country. In 2004, he was awarded the National Honour of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic.