Chief Eze Douglas Opera Honoured as Peace Advocate Ambassador in Abuja
The city of Abuja witnessed a majestic convergence of tradition and civic responsibility on Friday as Chief Eze Douglas Opera Iheme, the revered Eze Udo I of Tasha, AMAC, FCT, was decorated as a Peace Advocate Ambassador by the Peace Advocacy and Ethical Value Network. The ceremony, staged at the prestigious National Merit Award House, Maitama, carried the profound theme: “Peace Advocacy and the Maintenance of Ethical Values in the Society.”
The gathering drew a distinguished audience of peace ambassadors, traditional rulers, civil society leaders, and government dignitaries, all united by the conviction that peace and ethical rebirth are the cornerstones of national progress.
For years, Chief Eze Douglas Opera Iheme has been celebrated as a custodian of peace, unity, and cultural heritage in the Tasha community. His recognition as Peace Advocate Ambassador was more than a personal triumph; it was a public affirmation of his role as a traditional ruler whose leadership has been defined by fairness, inclusivity, and the pursuit of justice.
Draped in regal attire befitting his throne, the Chief — fondly hailed as Eze Udo I, the “King of Peace” — entered the grand hall to a thunderous ovation. His presence reminded the audience that traditional authority, when rooted in ethical values, remains an unshakable pillar of peace in society.
In his keynote remarks, Ambassador Eze B, President of the Peace Advocacy and Ethical Value Network, praised Chief Opera Iheme’s leadership trajectory, describing him as a royal luminary whose throne is a sanctuary of peace and ethical values.
“Today we are not just celebrating a man, but a message — the message of peace advocacy and the maintenance of ethical values in the society. Chief Eze Douglas embodies this message through his reign as Eze Udo I. He is a leader who has shown that ethical governance and peaceful coexistence must guide our communities if Nigeria is to prosper,” Ambassador Ufor declared to resounding applause.
The organization, widely respected for its nationwide campaigns on peace education, civic responsibility, and moral reorientation, underscored that honouring Chief Opera Iheme was part of its broader mission to spotlight leaders who blend traditional authority with modern values of justice, accountability, and harmony.
The ceremony highlighted the growing appreciation of traditional rulers as critical stakeholders in Nigeria’s democratic and developmental journey. By combining royal influence with civic advocacy, leaders like Chief Opera Iheme embody the balance between heritage and modern governance.
As Abuja’s elite, diplomats, and grassroots representatives mingled in the grand halls of the National Merit Award House, one message stood out: peace is not merely an aspiration, but a duty — and leaders like Chief Eze Douglas Opera Iheme are the torchbearers of this noble cause.
Chief Opera Iheme’s Response
In his acceptance speech, the newly decorated Peace Advocate Ambassador expressed gratitude and renewed his vow to serve as a beacon of unity and moral guidance.
“As Eze Udo I of Tasha, I wear this honour not for myself alone, but for my people and for every community that believes peace is possible. To advocate peace is to protect the soul of a nation; to maintain ethical values is to preserve its conscience. I dedicate this recognition to the pursuit of harmony, justice, and development in AMAC and beyond,” Chief Opera Iheme declared, drawing a standing ovation.
The colourful ceremony featured musical performances, and goodwill messages that reflected Nigeria’s unity in diversity. The cultural displays celebrated not just the honouree but also the deeper theme of peace and ethics in society.
Among the dignitaries present were fellow traditional rulers, ambassadors of peace from across the FCT, civic activists, and youth leaders. Many delivered glowing tributes, describing Chief Opera Iheme as “a royal father whose reign radiates moral clarity and whose throne is anchored in justice.”
Other distinguished personalities were also decorated with peace ambassadorial honours, reinforcing the network’s mission to build a coalition of ethical leaders across Nigeria
The event ultimately underscored a powerful message: peace is not just an aspiration, but a responsibility, and it is only sustainable when anchored on ethical values. By blending his royal majesty with civic advocacy, Chief Eze Douglas Opera Iheme has become a symbol of what the future of leadership in Nigeria must look like.
As the curtains fell on the ceremony at the National Merit Award House, one truth echoed in the hearts of the attendees — “Peace Advocacy and the Maintenance of Ethical Values in the Society” is not just a theme, but a mandate, and Chief Eze Douglas Opera Iheme stands as one of its brightest champions.
