Mpam Ancient Kingdom sets January 3, 2026 for coronation of Eze Leonard Ogbata
Community hails cultural rebirth, unity ahead of historic event
Maureen Aguta
The Mpam Ancient Kingdom in Ekwerazu, Ahiazu Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State, has announced January 3, 2026, as the official date for the coronation of His Royal Highness, Eze Leonard Chukwudi Ogbata (Onuguotu II).
According to the organisers, the epoch-making ceremony—expected to draw dignitaries from across Nigeria and the diaspora—will take place at Eke-Mpam Market Square, the traditional headquarters of the community.
In a statement jointly signed by Nze Uchechi Obasi, Chairman of the Coronation Central Planning Committee, and Chief Iyke Anyanwu (Ikukundu), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Media and Publicity, the event was described as a “cultural rebirth and a defining moment” in the history of Mpam.
“The coronation of Eze Ogbata signifies a new dawn for Mpam—one that celebrates our heritage, strengthens our unity, and reaffirms our shared values as a people,” the statement said.
The organisers noted that preparations are in top gear, with several subcommittees overseeing logistics, culture, security, and hospitality to ensure a successful celebration.
A unifying celebration
Community leaders said the coronation would serve as a rallying point for sons and daughters of Mpam, both at home and in the diaspora, rekindling cultural pride and reinforcing the town’s reputation as one of Mbaise’s most culturally vibrant communities.
The President-General of the Mpam Progressive Union (MPU), Hon. Anthony Odom, and His Royal Highness, Eze Leonard Ogbata, have extended an open invitation to all well-meaning citizens, friends, and well-wishers to participate in the ceremony.
They also disclosed that several distinguished individuals—both indigenes and friends of Mpam—will be honoured for their outstanding contributions to community development, leadership, and cultural preservation.
Faith and culture intertwined
Highlighting the spiritual significance of the event, the committee announced that the Coronation High Mass will be presided over by Most Rev. Dr. Simeon Okezuo Nwobi, C.M.F., Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Ahiara.
The celebration will be preceded by a week-long series of cultural and social activities, including youth performances, traditional dances, women’s exhibitions, and a royal banquet—all designed to showcase the rich traditions and creativity of the Mpam people.
A new era of leadership
Eze Leonard Ogbata, described by the organisers as “a leader of humility, faith, and vision,” is expected to usher in a new era of peace, unity, and progress for the Mpam Kingdom.
According to the planning committee, the coronation “will symbolize a renewed commitment to harmony, community service, and cultural preservation—values that have long defined the Mpam spirit.”
As the countdown to January 3 begins, anticipation is already building across Mbaise and beyond for what is being hailed as one of the most significant traditional ceremonies in recent memory.
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