Metro
Uda Nkwa: Legacies of Eze Aro VII, Mazi Kanu Oji, Revisited
As the drumbeat sounded, it echoed memories of Nigeria’s longest-serving monarch, whose legacies transcended generations.
It was Uda Nkwa, a Command Performance depicting the legendary reign of His Majesty Mazi Kanu Oji, Eze Aro VII of Arochukwu Kingdom, before an elite audience in Lagos, on February 2, 2025.
Scripted by Dr Ikechukwu Erojikwe of UNN, the play was produced by Joseph Edgar, and hosted in honour of Eze Aro IX, His Eminence Dr Eberechukwu Oji, at the prestigious Terra Kulture on Victoria Island.
Like the maiden public performance in homeland Arochukwu Kingdom on December 27 – as component part of the events marking the 2024 Aro Day celebration – the Lagos episode was a big show, which attracted top socialites, industry titans, art and culture aficionados, the clergy and foreign nationals.
Performed by a cast of young and talented artistes, the stage show depicted the exceptional leadership sagacity of the legendary Eze Kanu Oji, which earned him honours from the British Empire.
The play demonstrated how the legendary Eze Aro, during his 73-year reign, deployed his God-given wisdom to resolve otherwise knotty issues, and maintain peace in his kingdom.
Following the captivating theatre performance at Terra Kulture, guests were invited to indulge in a delightful refreshment spread, graciously hosted by Princewill Utchay, the group’s chairman.
Under the impressive glow of decorative string led lights at the Prime Chinese Restaurant on Victoria Island, a symbolic evening unfolded, honouring the life of the legendary Eze Kanu Oji.
As the night progressed, vibrant Aro cultural dances intertwined with the rhythmic steps of Urhobo performers, led by Olorogun Oskar Ibru, who energized the atmosphere, compelling guests to their feet.
The celebrations echoed the rich cultural heritage of the Aro Kingdom, known for its spirit and unity.
The event held a sentimental significance, marking not just a celebration of the current Eze Aro, but also serving as a poignant reminder of a gathering from 24 years ago. Specifically on March 12, 2001, the then Eze Aro, Eze Ogbonnaya Okoro, CFR, was warmly welcomed at the same venue, initiating the Aro 2002 Centenary Commemoration of the Aro-British war.
Now, celebrating the iconic Eze Kanu Oji, who ruled for an astonishing 73 years (1914-1987) and was amongst the first traditional rulers conferred with Nigerian’s National honours at inception in 1964, the night felt like a beautiful continuum of tradition and respect for leadership.
Eze Kanu Oji, CFR, CON, OBE, a figure enshrined in respect, represents more than mere lineage; he embodies a legacy deeply intertwined with the nation’s history.
He was hosted by three Nigerian heads of State across decades: Tafawa Balewa in 1965; Olusegun Obasanjo in 1976; and Ibrahim Babaginda in 1986, adding to the weight of his reign and the significance of this night.
As His Eminence Dr. Eberechukwu Oji, the grandson of this revered monarch, he carries forth not only his ancestral legacy but also the hopes of his people.
“It is a unique moment for us,” Princewill Utchay remarked during his opening address, “not merely to celebrate a king but to honour the greatness that has united the Aro Kingdom and the larger Nigerian community.”
Prime Chinese Restaurant plays a pivotal role in this tradition, ensuring that heritage is celebrated amid the culinary delight they provide.
Beyond the cultural festivities, the evening highlighted Eze Aro’s remarkable contributions to the oil industry and his recent engagement at the World Bank/IMF session in Washington, USA, where he advocated sustainable solutions in Africa’s energy sector on October 22, 2024. His journey from the oil fields to esteemed leadership presents an inspiring narrative, resonating with both local and global ambitions.
Indeed the gathering was not for lengthy speeches, as emphasized by the host, but rather to “express gratitude and respect for Eze Eberehukwu Oji’s commitment to unity and development, and to pledge our total support and loyalty to His Eminence Dr Eberechukwu Oji, Eze Aro.
“As the first grandson of Mazi T.K. Utchay the designer of Omu Aro – the Coat of Arms of the Aro Kingdom in 1925 – it is traditional that I align myself with this great king of our time.”
Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, a venerable elder of Arochukwu Kingdom, led the opening prayer, invoking blessings for peace and prosperity in Nigeria, a heartfelt moment that resonated with everyone present.
In her vote of thanks, Prof. Ngozi Osarenren passionately reaffirmed the night’s purpose: to celebrate unity and the bridge-building efforts of Eze Eberechukwu Oji.
Within just a year of his ascendancy, he has been pivotal in forming the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council, forging alliances among various traditional leaders including the Oni of Ife; Dein of Agbor; Jaja of Opobo; Obong of Calabar; Obi of Isingwu; Elegushi of Ikate; Olofin of Isheri; Alara of Ilara; Amanyanabo of Abonnema, amongst others.
As the evening drew to a close, Eze Eberechukwu Oji, flanked by his adorable queen, Ugoeze Nneoma, expressed deep appreciation to Prime Chinese Restaurant, which has consistently served its customers with excellence for over three decades, twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, inviting all Aro people to come together for communal growth and development.
His Eminence promised that the third leg of the play would be staged in Abuja, and subsequently taken to the United Kingdom.
In the spirit of the night, the Echoes of the Drum, laughter and music intertwined with promises of a united future, celebrating not just a lineage but a shared vision of greatness that transcends boundaries.
The legacy of Eze Aro continues to thrive, reminding all present of the rich culture and relentless spirit of the Aro Kingdom, and its importance in the tapestry of Nigeria’s history.
Some of the dignitaries present included a former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, His Excellency, Chief Emeka Anyaoku; former President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa; Professor Ngozi Osarenren of University of Lagos; Treasurer-General of Nzuko Aro Worldwide, Mazi Adindu Elekwa and his wife Maria; former presidents of Nzuko Aro, Lagos branch, Mazi Jideofor Kanu; and Mazi Ejike Onwuchekwa; Chairman of AROSON, Lagos branch, Mazi Chinedu Nwankwo and his wife Nnenna; Dr JK Onwuchekwa and his wife Gift.
Others were the Publisher of Daily Times, Mr. Fidelis Anosike; Mr. Rufai Oseni of Arise TV; Nollywood actress Rita Dominic-Anosike; Showbiz presenter, Yemi Shodimu; Engr. Obioha Chijioke, Mazi Chimezie Orji; oil and gas magnet, Mazi Obioha Okorafor; Full Moon Hotel proprietor, Mazi Chike Okorafor; real estate developer, Mazi Emeka Okoronkwo; Ezienyi Club President, Mazi Udeaha Nwosu and his wife Ebere; Palace Secretary, Mazi Ugo Okoro and his wife Nancy, amongst several others.
The Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, has congratulated the Muslim faithful on the successful completion of this year’s Ramadan fast, and called for sustenance of the spirit of sacrifice, which was exhibited during the holy month for Allah’s intervention in the affairs of the nation.
The Corps Marshal, according to a statement made available to the National Association of Online Security News Publishers (NAOSNP), stated this in his Sallah goodwill message to mark the end of the 2025 Ramadan fast.
Corps Marshal Mohammed maintained that Ramadan fast is one of the pillars of Islamic religion and a period of spiritual rejuvenation which makes it mandatory for Muslims to abstain from food and drinks during the daytime from dusk to dawn throughout the month. This he said nurtures the spirit of love, sacrifice and good neighborliness which should be sustained beyond the festivity in order to attain greater national cohesion, patriotic spirit and peaceful coexistence among the diverse people of the country.
While advising Nigerians to celebrate with care, the Corps Marshal stressed the need for motorists to display great patience, love and compassion for one another, not only during the Sallah celebration but beyond the festivity. He restated the commitment of the FRSC to provide safer road environment during the festive period, saying the massive deployment of officers and men across the commands to manage traffic along the major corridors, especially at the identified black spots is geared toward ensuring free and safe movement during the celebration and everyone must adhere strictly to traffic rules and regulations.
“I call on all Nigerians to join the campaign to make our roads free and safe not only during the celebration, but beyond it by avoiding speeding, overloading and use of one way,” the Corps Marshal stated
Shehu commended the personnel of the FRSC for the initiative and sacrifice they make in creating safer road environment despite the challenges posed by recalcitrant drivers who disobey traffic rules and regulations without consideration to others, reassuring them of Management’s commitment to initiating policies and programs that could address their welfare needs, especially in the area of improved working and living conditions; capacity development and regular promotion exercises in rewarding excellence.The Corps Marshal further expressed appreciation to the present administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing the necessary logistics and moral support to inspire sacrifices among the personnel, saying Management will not rest in its oars in reciprocating the gestures through increased productivity and improved service delivery by the Corps,” he added
While praying Allah to guide and protect this nation towards peace, stability and development, the Corps Marshal enjoined all Nigerians to embrace the lessons of the Ramadan fast and work towards making the nation’s highways safe for all for enhanced socioeconomic activities.
“As the lead agency for road traffic management and safety administration in the country, the FRSC will continue to improve on its technological innovations for improved traffic management system in the country and everyone must recommit to the campaign to restore sanity to our roads,” the Corps Marshal said.
It would recalled that Eid el fitri celebration is the festival to mark the end of the Ramadan fast by Muslims who embarked on the one month spiritual exercise during which they abstained from food and drinks as well as sexual intimacy from dusk to dawn. It’s also one of the periods of the year with heightened human and vehicular movements which necessitate special operations by the FRSC to ensure free and safe road environment for all road travelers throughout the holiday period.
In the event of a crash or any emergencies, members of the public are enjoined to call the National Emergency line: 122 or report directly to the studio of the FRSC National Traffic Radio, 107.1fm for prompt response.
Adron Homes and Properties extends warm greetings to the Muslim community across Nigeria and beyond as we celebrate the joyous occasion of Eid-al-Fitr.
As we mark the end of Ramadan, a season of faith, sacrifice, and devotion, we reflect on the values of unity, gratitude, and generosity that define this celebration. The blessings of fasting and prayers bring peace, progress, and abundance to our beloved nation, and we pray for continued harmony, stability, and prosperity for Nigeria and its people.
At Adron Homes, this season is also a time to express our heartfelt appreciation to our esteemed customers. Your trust, loyalty, and commitment to choosing Adron Homes as your partner in the journey to homeownership mean everything to us. Your belief in our vision inspires us to continue providing affordable, luxurious, and accessible housing solutions, making homeownership a reality for all.
As you celebrate Eid with your loved ones, may your homes be filled with peace, joy, and countless blessings. We remain dedicated to building vibrant communities where families can thrive and create lasting memories.
Eid Mubarak! Thank you for being part of the Adron Homes family.
The Assistant Inspector General of Police, in charge of Zone 2, AIG Adegoke M. Fayoade, on Thursday, decorated DCP Olayinka Ajeigbe, ACP Saheed Olayinka Egbeyemi, ACP Kazeem Kabir Afolabi and others as Deputy and Assistant Commissioners of Police at the Zonal Command Headquarters, Onikan, Lagos.
A statement by the Zonal Public Relations Officer, CSP Ayuba Ummah, and made available to the National Association of Online Security News Publishers (NAOSNP), noted that AIG Fayoade appreciated the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, and the Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC), DIG Hashimu Argungu (Rtd) for approving the promotion of the new Deputy and Assistant Commissioners of Police.
AIG Fayoade enjoined them to be good supervisors to their subordinates, portray the Force in good light and be more devoted as unto whom much is given, much is expected. He also emphasized the need for people friendly policing to enhance public trust.
DCP Olayinka Ajeigbe on behalf of newly promoted Officers in his vote of thanks expressed gratitude to the Almighty also appreciate the IGP and PSC Chairman for finding them deserving of the enviable ranks as they promise to live up to expectations, and be more responsible in their respective duty posts.
