Born in 1881, Eze Ugbonyamba was the son of Igwe Iwuchukwu Ezeifekaibeya, the 17th Obi of Otolo and Igwe of Nnewi. His early life was deeply rooted in the traditions and cultural heritage of the Nnofo Royal lineage, one of the most revered in Igbo history. Following his father’s death in 1904, the young Eze Ugbonyamba ascended the throne, becoming the 18th Igwe of Nnewi Kingdom.
Eze Ugbonyamba’s reign began at a turbulent time, as the British forces led by Major Harry Moorhouse and Hugh Trenchard were extending colonial control over Igboland. Nnewi laid down arms in 1904 after significant resistance, marking the beginning of British influence in the region. Despite the challenges, the British recognized Eze Ugbonyamba as the rightful ruler and extended their political support to his administration.1
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Encounter with the British
Eze Ugbonyamba’s reign coincided with the British colonial administration’s effort to establish control over Nnewi. On December 24, 1904, a formal reception was held at Nkwo Nnewi, where local leaders welcomed the British delegation. While Eze Ugbonyamba was initially absent, his cousin, Eze Odumegwu, represented Nnewi. During this encounter, Major Moorhouse sought to recognize a single ruler for the town. Eze Odumegwu, however, deferred the honor to Eze Ugbonyamba, asserting that he was the legitimate king.
The period also witnessed significant resistance from the inhabitants of Nnewi, many of whom initially refused to surrender their weapons. In response, Trenchard’s forces adopted harsh measures, including the destruction of homes belonging to those who harbored arms. Eventually, weapons were surrendered at Nkwo Nnewi and destroyed in the presence of British troops. Trenchard earned the nickname “Nwangwele” (“young lizard” in Igbo) due to his slender figure and imposing demeanor during these operations.2
Reign
Eze Ugbonyamba’s reign was marked by both traditional achievements and cultural transformation:
- Territorial Expansion: Under his leadership, Nnewi secured land from neighboring communities such as Ichi through successful military campaigns. Soldiers were resettled in areas like Abubo, Nnewichi, and Akabukwu.
- Introduction of Christianity: His reign saw the gradual introduction of Christianity to Nnewi, which began influencing both his family and the broader community.
- Ozo Titleholder: Eze Ugbonyamba took the prestigious Nri Ozo title, adopting the Ozo name “Eze Ugbonyamba.” This title solidified his spiritual and political authority within the kingdom.
Family Life
Eze Ugbonyamba had a large and influential family, reflecting the polygamous tradition of Igbo royalty. He married approximately 100 wives, including notable figures such as:
- Uzoagbala: Mother of his successor, Josiah Nnaji Orizu II.
- Mgbugo: Renowned for her beauty and commanding respect within the royal household.
- Ejeagwu, Uzumma, Afuekwe, Onyeanu, and others.
Eze Ugbonyamba fathered many children, including:
- Prince Akweke Abyssinia Nwafor Orizu, who became Nigeria’s second Senate President and Acting President.
- He was the grandfather of Igwe Kenneth Onyeneke Orizu III, the current Igwe of Nnewi, continuing the dynasty’s legacy.
Legacy and Achievements
Modernization and Prestige
Eze Ugbonyamba is remembered as a forward-thinking ruler who introduced significant innovations to Nnewi:
- First Car Owner in Eastern Nigeria:
He was the first Igbo person to own a private car. The vehicle, registered as ON1 (Onitsha 1), became a symbol of prestige. When it was delivered from Lagos, the European Provincial Officer at Onitsha was invited to inspect it. The car became a source of pride for Nnewi and the Eastern Region of Nigeria. - Cultural Leadership:
His reign preserved Igbo traditions while navigating the challenges of colonial rule. By taking the Nri Ozo title, he upheld the spiritual heritage of his people. - Military and Political Influence:
Eze Ugbonyamba expanded Nnewi’s territorial boundaries and maintained strong political alliances with neighboring communities.
Death and Succession
Eze Ugbonyamba passed away in 1924 after 20 years on the throne. His death marked the end of an era but paved the way for the continued influence of the Orizu dynasty. He was succeeded by his first son, Josiah Nnaji Orizu II, who became the 19th Igwe of Nnewi.
Legacy and Memory
Eze Ugbonyamba’s contributions to Nnewi’s growth and modernization remain celebrated. His reign laid the groundwork for Nnewi’s prominence as a cultural and economic hub in Igboland. His family has produced generations of influential leaders, including politicians, traditional rulers, and educators.
References (Chicago Style)
- Achebe, Chinua. There Was a Country: A Personal History of Biafra. New York: Penguin Press, 2012.
- Coleman, James S. Nigeria: Background to Nationalism. Berkeley: University of California Press, 1958.
- Falola, Toyin, and Matthew M. Heaton. A History of Nigeria. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2008.
- Nwafor Orizu. Without Bitterness: Western Nations in Post-war Africa. London: Zik Enterprises, 1944.
- Uche, Ngozi. “The Legacy of Eze Ugbonyamba.” The Guardian, December 15, 2004.
- Wikipedia Contributors. “Igwe Orizu I.” Wikipedia: The Free Encyclopedia. Last modified October 2024. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Igwe_Orizu_I.
- Zik Enterprises. Liberty or Chains—Africa Must Be. Lagos: Zik Enterprises, 1994.
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