Media executive James Anya Emeh has congratulated his friend and fellow journalist, Ifeanyi Okali, ahead of Saturday’s rare chieftaincy honour in Ebem Ohafia.
Emeh, who serves as Executive Director of IgbereTV and National President of the Online Media Practitioners Association of Nigeria (OMPAN), described the occasion as a proud moment for the media community.
Okali, the Director of ABN TV & Radio, will on Saturday, April 4, 2026, receive a prestigious chieftaincy title from the Paramount Ruler of Ebem Ohafia Ancient Kingdom, HRH Ezie Ukoha Kalu Ukoha (JP). The conferment is part of the monarch’s 35th Coronation Anniversary and 89th Birthday celebration.
What makes the honour remarkable is that Okali had previously declined over 30 chieftaincy titles across 16 years. His acceptance of this particular title, Emeh noted, speaks volumes about the integrity of the Ebem Ohafia throne.
“Ifeanyi Okali is a brother and a benchmark for integrity in our profession,” Emeh said. “For 16 years, he said no to titles. That he said yes to this one tells you everything about the credibility of the Ebem Ohafia throne. I am proud to call him a colleague. I am prouder to call him a friend.”
Emeh also highlighted Okali’s humanitarian contributions to Ebem Ohafia, including solar-powered streetlights, free education support, JAMB and WAEC sponsorships, water supply, and support for community security.
“Real leaders don’t wait for titles to serve — but titles find them,” Emeh added.
The OMPAN National President called on members of the association to turn out in large numbers for the ceremony, scheduled to hold by 10:00 AM prompt at the Ohafia LGA Pavilion, Ebem Ohafia, with a reception to follow at No. 21 Chief O. K. Ubaka Street / Chief J. K. Ukoha Street.
“We are journalists, but today we are also family. Let us come together to celebrate a man who has lifted our profession,” Emeh urged.
The event is expected to attract dignitaries from across Abia State and beyond.
