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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 Dangote Petroleum Refinery has increased the gantry price of petrol and diesel, further tightening pressure on consumers and businesses across Nigeria. This is however, in response to the rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and their ripple effects on global energy markets.
A top official at the refinery, who confirmed the development to our correspondent on Tuesday night, said the facility adjusted its pricing in response to prevailing international crude oil benchmarks and market realities.
The new pricing template shows that petrol rose by N75 per litre to N1,275, representing an increase of about 5.02 per cent, while diesel jumped by N200 per litre to N1,950.
This marks a sharp increase from last month’s prices of N1,200 per litre for petrol and N1,750 for diesel, signalling that diesel is now on track to breach the N2,000 per litre mark at the pump, further intensifying cost pressures across the economy.
“The adjustment is in line with global market trends. You are aware of the ongoing tensions in the Middle East and how they have impacted crude oil prices. These are external factors that directly influence refined product pricing,” the official, who spoke in confidence due to the lack of authorisation to speak on the matter, stated.
He added, “Petrol has been reviewed upward by N75 to N1,275 per litre, which is about a five per cent increase, while diesel has increased more significantly by N200 to N1,950 per litre. These changes reflect the realities of the international market.”
Market data from Petroleumprice.ng corroborated the development, indicating that the latest petrol price reflects a 5.02 per cent increase at the gantry level.
The development comes at a time when stakeholders had hoped that increased local refining capacity would help stabilise domestic fuel prices. However, analysts say Nigeria remains exposed to global oil price volatility due to its reliance on international crude benchmarks for pricing.
The latest hike could trigger a fresh wave of increases in pump prices nationwide, with marketers expected to pass on the additional cost to consumers in the coming days.
Global oil markets have remained volatile in recent weeks due to escalating tensions in the Middle East, a region that accounts for a significant share of the world’s crude oil supply. Any disruption or perceived risk to supply routes often leads to price spikes, which in turn affect refined petroleum products globally.
Nigeria, despite being an oil-producing country, operates a deregulated downstream sector where fuel prices are largely determined by market forces. This means that local prices are influenced by international crude prices, exchange rates, logistics costs, and refinery operations.
The Dangote Petroleum Refinery, Africa’s largest, was expected to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported fuel and help stabilise prices. However, experts note that as long as crude oil pricing remains tied to global benchmarks, domestic fuel prices will continue to fluctuate in response to international developments.
The latest increase also comes amid concerns over affordability, with consumers already grappling with high energy and transportation costs. A sustained price increase could worsen inflationary pressures and slow economic recovery.
A windstorm accompanied by heavy rainfall on Tuesday damaged parts of the newly built Kugbo Bus Terminal in Nyanya, Abuja, raising concern among residents and commuters in the area.
A statement by Lere Olayinka, spokesperson for the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, said the storm, which hit in the afternoon, also affected nearby infrastructure, including the Nyanya pedestrian bridge and several surrounding buildings.
Despite the visible damage, authorities confirmed that no casualties or property losses were reported.
“From preliminary reports, no one was injured, and no vehicle was damaged,” the statement noted.
In response to the incident, the statement said Wike had ordered immediate measures to ensure safety and restore order in the affected area.
“To prevent a breakdown of law and order, as well as ensure the free flow of traffic, the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has directed that security personnel be deployed to the scene, while immediate action will be taken to repair the damages caused by the windstorm,” the statement added.
The incident comes amid growing public concern over delays in the commencement of operations at key bus terminals in the FCT.
Reports indicate that residents have repeatedly urged the FCT administration to fast-track the opening of the Kugbo and Mabushi terminals, which were completed months ago but remain non-operational.
Commuters say the delay has worsened transportation difficulties, particularly for those living in satellite towns such as Nyanya and Karu. Many believe the terminals, once operational, will help regulate transport activities, reduce congestion, and improve safety.
Wike had recently assured residents that operations would begin soon after the Federal Executive Council approved a public-private partnership arrangement for managing the facilities.
Abia State governor, Alex Otti, has drawn the attention of former and incumbent governors of the five South-East states to make positive contributions towards fixing the decaying Law School campus in Enugu.
Reports said that Otti has requested the Chairman of the Council of Legal Education, Emeka Ngige (SAN), to formally write to the governors of the region on the urgent need to rebuild and upgrade the Enugu campus of the Nigerian Law School.
Governor Otti also expressed his readiness to collaborate with his counterparts across the zone to give the campus a comprehensive facelift.
Otti made this known during a meeting of the South East Law Development Initiative (SELDI) held at the Michael Okpara Auditorium in Umuahia.
This was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha.
Responding to concerns raised at the meeting, Governor Otti stated that upon receipt of the formal communication, he would personally engage other South-East governors to pursue a collective intervention aimed at addressing the inadequate infrastructure and deteriorating facilities at the institution.
The governor was reacting to an appeal by Chief Ngige (SAN), who also serves as Chairman of the Council of Legal Education. Chief Ngige drew attention to the deplorable condition of the existing facilities at the Enugu campus and called for urgent support.
In his response, Governor Otti advised Chief Ngige to formally write to the Chairman of the South-East Governors’ Forum and copy him, assuring that he would use the platform to mobilize regional support for the rehabilitation of the campus.
Otti further highlighted that his administration is currently developing what is projected to become one of the best law faculties in Nigeria at Abia State University.
While commending legal practitioners for their critical role as the “last hope of the common man,” the governor urged members of the legal profession to actively participate in politics.
He emphasized that governance should not be left solely in the hands of individuals who depend entirely on politics for their livelihood.
The governor, who briefly stopped by the meeting on his way to attend the wedding reception of his younger sister, expressed appreciation for the contributions of lawyers to society.
“Thank you for what you do for our people. Anyhow you look at it, without the gentlemen of the Bar – and, of course, the Bench – the hope of the common man would be lost,” he said.
“We may not have gotten everything right, but the fact that when someone is oppressed, treated unfairly, or feels their rights have been violated, there is somewhere to turn to – that is what sustains hope.”
Speaking further on political participation, Governor Otti urged professionals across the South-East— – ncluding those from Imo State, Enugu State, and Anambra states – to take a more active role in governance.
“Because we have labeled politicians in a certain way, many of us stayed away. But the decisions they make affect every aspect of our lives,” he added.
Quoting the Greek philosopher Plato, the governor noted that one of the penalties for refusing to participate in politics is being governed by less competent individuals, stressing that such a situation undermines the right to complain about poor leadership.
“We need people who have alternative means of livelihood—people who do not depend on politics to survive—to get involved in governance,” he said.
Governor Otti also expressed gratitude to the senior lawyers for their commendation of his administration’s achievements.
He noted that although his government inherited a challenging situation upon assumption of office, his focus remains on transforming the state and driving sustainable progress.
Earlier in his remarks, Chief Ngige thanked the governor for attending the meeting despite his tight schedule.
He explained that SELDI comprises Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) from the South-East, established to advance the legal profession in the region and provide advisory support when needed.
Members of the group commended Governor Otti for his visible infrastructural strides, noting that they had personally observed significant improvements across
They also pledged to provide pro bono legal services in support of the state government.
The Abia State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ikechukwu Uwanna (SAN) was among the senior legal practitioners present at the meeting.
