By Emeka Amaefula
IHO DIMEZE ANCIENT KINGDOM HONOURS HIGH CHIEF SOTONYE TOBY-FULTON WITH PRESTIGIOUS TITLE “UGO NWANYI -I”
Iho, Imo State — A remarkable chapter in inter-state cultural friendship and community leadership is set to unfold as the Iho Dimeze Ancient Kingdom in Ikeduru Local Government Area of Imo State prepares to honour High Chief Sotonye Toby-Fulton, the Amaopuorubo of Opobo Ancient Kingdom and Founder of Rivers State Women Unite for SIM RWUS and Tuby Jug Foundation, with the prestigious chieftaincy title Ugo Nwanyi I of Iho Dimeze — the Eagle Woman.
The forthcoming ceremony celebrates an extraordinary woman whose name has become synonymous with unity, humanitarian service, and spiritual leadership among women across Rivers State.
A Bridge-Builder Among Women of All Backgrounds
High Chief SOTONYE Toby-Fulton has distinguished herself through her exceptional organisational strength, bringing together women from all 23 Local Government Areas of Rivers State—cutting across ethnic, religious, and political divides.
Through her movement, Rivers State Women Unite for SIM RWUS, she mobilized thousands of women to gather in prayer, thanksgiving, and peaceful solidarity, promoting harmony under the administration of His Excellency Sir Siminalayi Fubara, Executive Governor of Rivers State.
Community leaders describe her as “a unifying force whose leadership encourages peace and spiritual growth at a time when society needs both.”
A Heart of Charity Beyond Borders
Her humanitarian outreach extends far beyond politics or geography. High Chief SOTONYE Toby-Fulton is widely revered for her consistent acts of charity—supporting widows, orphans, displaced families, the elderly, and vulnerable persons across different communities.
Her warm relationship with border communities linking Rivers and Imo States has especially endeared her to the people of Iho Dimeze Autonomous Community.
The elders of Iho Dimeze note that her generosity is not merely occasional but a lifestyle:
“Her golden hands of charity have touched lives across tribes, tongues, and states. She stands as an embodiment of grace and compassion.”
Why She Earned the Title “Ugo Nwanyi I”
According to the custodians of tradition, the title Ugo Nwanyi I—the Eagle Woman—is reserved for women whose excellence and character soar above the ordinary.
High Chief SOTONYE Toby-Fulton, they say, embodies the elegance, courage, and far-reaching impact symbolized by the eagle.
Her ability to unify women from varying political leanings, her devotion to community upliftment, and her unwavering commitment to the less privileged made her not just a choice, but the choice for this rare honour.
A Grand Celebration Awaits
The grand conferment ceremony will take place on:
📍 Venue: Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu Stadium, Iho Town
Date: Saturday, 27th December 2025
Time: 9am
The event will be presided over by His Royal Majesty, Eze (Dr.) Martin Chieze Amaku (Dimeze II), one of Nigeria’s youngest and most respected traditional rulers. With cultural troupes, civic dignitaries, women organisations, and guests from across Rivers and Imo States expected to attend, the stadium is anticipated to be a lively sea of colour and celebration.
A Woman of Honour Enters the Ancestral Record
For the people of Iho Dimeze, this chieftaincy title is not merely ceremonial—it is an inscription of High Chief Sotonye Toby-Fulton’s name into the historical and cultural heritage of the kingdom.
For Rivers State, it is another affirmation of the enduring bond between two neighbouring states with shared values.
As the day approaches, anticipation grows for the arrival of the Eagle Woman, whose wings of charity, leadership, and excellence continue to inspire communities far and near.
——–Emeka Amaefula —-+234(0)8111813069—
