Vice President Kashim Shettima has been conferred with the chieftaincy title of “Aka Ekpuchi Ọnwa” by a traditional ruler in Ebonyi State, in recognition of his visit to the state and the enduring bonds of unity among Nigerians from different regions.
The title, which translates to “A Hand Cannot Cover the Moon,” was bestowed on him by Eze Fidelis Nwonumara, Eze Nnodo II of Amagu Autonomous Community and Chairman of the Izzi/Nnodo Traditional Rulers Council.
The conferment was disclosed in a statement issued on Monday by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications in the Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha.
Shettima received the honour during his visit to Abakaliki for the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign rally at the Pa Ngele Oruta Township Stadium. He was welcomed by Governor Francis Nwifuru, government officials and party leaders.
Speaking after the conferment, the Vice President described the title as a symbol of the strong bonds that unite Nigerians across geographical, cultural and regional boundaries.
“I have travelled from the far North-East to the South-East, yet I stand here among brothers and sisters. Our ancestors understood that friendship could cross rivers, mountains and kingdoms,” he said.
He further noted that traditional values had long promoted acceptance and hospitality among communities, stressing that “a stranger who is received with love soon becomes a member of the household.”
Shettima described such values of mutual respect, acceptance and togetherness as the foundation of the Nigeria the country must strive to preserve.