Enugu Monarch, Igwe Ogadagidi Breaks Record with Landmark Conflict Management Workshop for Cabinet Members, Stakeholders
In a bold and unprecedented move that has captured statewide attention, His Royal Majesty, Igwe Samuel Asadu (Jnr.), the traditional ruler of Edem-Ani Ogwugwu Ancient Kingdom in Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu State, has organized a groundbreaking workshop on conflict management for his cabinet members and community stakeholders.
The two-day workshop, held from May 14 to 15, 2025, at The People’s Palace, Edem-Ani, was themed “Skills of Managing Community/Communal Conflict for Edem-Ani Community Leaders/Stakeholders”. The event was facilitated in partnership with Pens and Voices Nigeria Limited, and featured expert sessions by Chief Uchenna Anioke, Executive Director, and Dr. Ambrose Igboke, Director of Training.
The training, which included participants from the Igwe-in-Council, Town Union Executive, and even the monarch’s wife, Lolo Happiness Asadu, focused on equipping community leaders with skills to peacefully resolve disputes, foster harmony, and avoid litigation. Participants were drilled on active listening, effective communication, fairness, equity, and justice—key tools in community-based conflict resolution.
In his opening remarks, Igwe Asadu, popularly known as Igwe Ogadagidi, expressed that the initiative stemmed from his passion for peace and development. He said he was inspired by a five-day conflict resolution training he recently attended in Enugu, organized by Pens and Voices Nigeria Limited and FC International Council of Mediators and Reconciliators, courtesy of Governor Peter Mbah.
“After attending the training in Enugu, I saw the impact it could have on communities. That’s why I decided to bring it home to you—my people. It is a life-changing effort aimed at deepening understanding of mediation, arbitration, and mutual coexistence,” the royal father said.
Igwe Asadu, who also serves as Chairman of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers’ Council, and immediate past Chairman of the South-East Traditional Rulers’ Council, emphasized the power of teamwork in leadership and urged his cabinet to join him in repositioning Edem-Ani Ogwugwu as a model community not just in Enugu State, but across Nigeria.
He also acknowledged the overwhelming support he has received since his ascension to the throne and expressed gratitude to his people, stating: “Your unwavering support is what has brought our community and its leadership to national and continental recognition.”
Participants described the training as historic and transformational. Mrs. Grace Onyishi, Vice President General of the Town Union, hailed the program as the first of its kind and praised the monarch for his foresight and deep love for his people. She urged fellow participants to apply the lessons learned for the good of the community.
Chief Ibe Ajibo, former Vice Chairman of Nsukka LGA and a member of the Igwe’s cabinet, called the workshop “monumental,” and lauded the monarch for his consistent efforts in empowering the people. Chief John Okanya, Chief of Staff to the traditional ruler, and Dr. Sylvanus Ogwuda echoed similar sentiments, commending the initiative as “fantastic and impactful.”
Palace Secretary, Chief Joseph Sunday Ugwuanyi, also praised the monarch's commitment to grassroots peacebuilding, assuring him that the knowledge gained would be put to practical use.
The highpoint of the event was the presentation of certificates to participants, marking a new chapter in Edem-Ani Ogwugwu’s journey toward lasting peace, unity, and sustainable development.
With this milestone, Igwe Ogadagidi has not only made history in Edem-Ani but has also set a powerful example for other traditional institutions across the country.
