The governorship candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Enugu State, Sir Chinyeaka Ohaa, popularly known as Odalije, has visited his ancestral home in Obuofia, Awkunanaw, to seek the blessings and support of the traditional elders ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
Ohaa was received in Obuofia on Wednesday by prominent members of the NDC, including his running mate, High Chief Omeje Frank Okenwa (Okenwa N’Oba); the party’s Enugu West Senatorial candidate, Hon. Uche Eneh; the NDC House of Representatives candidate, Dr. John Nwokeabia; and various House of Assembly candidates and other party leaders.
The occasion also attracted the participation of elders representing the major Awkunanaw clans, including Akaegbegu, Amodu, Obuofia and Amaechi Awkunanaw.
The elders gathered to receive Ohaa and formally express their support for his 2027 political ambition. A traditional offer was also presented to the governorship candidate as a symbol of acceptance and solidarity.
The visit came after Ohaa was clarified as eligible to contest the election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The NDC candidate subsequently deemed it important to return to his ancestral home to seek the blessings of the elders and fathers of his community before proceeding with his political journey.
In a traditional display of unity, the elders prayed for Ohaa and offered their blessings for his ambition. They also expressed their support for his vision and wished him success in his political pursuit.
The traditional offer presented to the candidate was described as having deep cultural significance in Nkanu land, where such gestures can symbolise acceptance, goodwill and ancestral support for an important undertaking.
The ancestral visit was followed by a large reception attended by people from across Nkanu, including various Ogene groups, market women, artisans and other members of the public.
Speaking at the gathering, Ohaa pledged to work with people from all parts of Enugu State if elected governor, promising to pursue an administration that would promote unity and restore orderliness across the state.
He expressed appreciation to the traditional elders and the people of Awkunanaw for their reception and support, stressing the importance of working together across communities to advance the development of Enugu State.
The event was attended by party supporters, community leaders and residents who gathered to witness the reception and ancestral blessing of the NDC governorship candidate.