After Declining Over 30 Titles, Ifeanyi Okali Accepts Rare Honour From Ebem Ohafia Traditional Ruler
An accomplished media practitioner and community advocate, Mr. Ifeanyi Kalu Ubaka Okali, is set to receive a prestigious chieftaincy title from the Paramount Ruler of Ebem Ohafia Ancient Kingdom, His Royal Highness Ezie Ukoha Kalu Ukoha (JP), in what has been described as a rare and highly selective honour.
The conferment forms part of activities marking the monarch’s 35th Coronation Anniversary and 89th birthday celebration, scheduled for Saturday, April 4, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. prompt at the Ohafia Local Government Area Pavilion in Ebem Ohafia, Abia State. A grand reception will follow immediately at No. 21 Chief O. K. Ubaka Street / Chief J. K. Ukoha Street, Ebem Ohafia.
Speaking with journalists ahead of the ceremony, Okali revealed that his decision to accept the title was not taken lightly, noting that he had declined more than 30 chieftaincy titles offered by various communities over the past 16 years.
“This honour is very special to me. I accepted it because it is coming from a place of integrity and true recognition,” he said. “For years, I turned down several titles, but this one stands out because of the credibility of the institution and the personality of the Paramount Ruler.”
He further emphasised that the Ebem Ohafia traditional institution is widely respected for upholding dignity and transparency, particularly in its conferment of titles, adding that such values influenced his decision.
Okali, who is the Director of ABN TV & Radio, Executive Director of Fakzy Communications and Fakzy Media Ltd, and spokesperson of the Ebem Ohafia community, expressed deep appreciation to the monarch, the royal cabinet, and the entire community for finding him worthy of the recognition.
“I am profoundly grateful to His Royal Highness and the good people of Ebem Ohafia. This honour is not just for me, but a call to do even more for my community,” he stated.
Widely regarded as a seasoned investigative journalist, Okali has earned a reputation for impactful community service and grassroots development. His contributions include the installation of solar-powered lighting in Ebem Ohafia market, donation of a motorcycle to the community vigilante group, provision of a large generator set, and facilitation of free education initiatives.
He has also sponsored JAMB and WAEC registrations for students and supported access to potable water, among several other humanitarian interventions aimed at improving the welfare of residents.
Academically, Okali attended Government Primary School, Afikpo, in Ebonyi State, and Emmanuel College, Owerri, in Imo State. He holds a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) degree from the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), and has further training in journalism from the National Broadcast Academy in Lagos and Atlantic International University in the United States.
With over 85 awards and recognitions to his name, he is widely celebrated as a leading voice in media, advocacy, and community development.
The forthcoming ceremony is expected to draw dignitaries from across Abia State and beyond, as the people of Ebem Ohafia gather to celebrate both their revered monarch and one of their distinguished sons.
