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ST JOHN THE BAPTIST CATHOLIC CHURCH: PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE

Leave a Comment / Churches in Ogbona /

ST JOHN THE BAPTIST CATHOLIC CHURCH: PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE  By Godwin Asekomhe The Catholic Church named after the Patron Saint ” St John The Baptist Catholic Church, Ogbona in Etsako Central Local government Area, Edo State was established in the early 20s. The pioneers of Lay Faithful were: Robert Odogbo, Cletus Eshiemhomoh Anaweokhai Nicholas Apemheye Asekomhe (Apemheye Asekomhe ( the biological father of Evangelizers Godwin Asekomhe). Others were: George Okomilo, Martins Esi Balogun, Richard Asekomhe, David Agbiko Enamhino, Thomas Eragbe, Michael Idodo, Erumhire, Dominic Enamhino, , Bernard Ozibe Ogboalo, and Mathias Ekiegbmhe Atsegwosi.   ” If this pioneering lay faithful members of the young Catholic Church expected grand reception among Ogbona people, it was a a dream taken too far. They were met with fair resistance, opposition and persecution. The local saw the religion as a knife wedge in the heart of the things that held their community together, their way of life with the Scriptural teaching against pagan practices like sacrifices to idols, okhei traditional rites, and their way of life. etc. This soon brought the church head on conllision with the traditionalist. The school was seen as an extension of that alien culture were children were subject to such inhuman treatment as caning and as such most parents refused to send their children to school.” (Pastor Odior Anaweokhai: unpublished search work).   Matters were not helped by lack of able bodied men to steer the affair of the new church. Mr. Robert Odogbo, the pioneer head Christian and Catechist was based in Auchi. All the clergymen were based in Ivhianogbodi. Mr Cletus Anaweokhai and Mr Nicholas Apemheye Asekomhe would go to Ivhianogbodi to collect previous Sundays readings and sermons for Sunday masses at Ogbona. In this regard, Mr Nicholas Apemheye Asekomhe was nick named “Obo no bie” which means Black European and “Uwaya” which means Telegram communication officer.   As we are preparing for the canonical dedication of the new church, let all hands be on the desk and work together to make the dedication gloriously glorious to the glory of our ever glorious God.   ST JOHN THE BAPTIST CATHOLIC CHURCH: PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE PART2. Today marks the beginning of a new dawn in Ogbona as all roads by land sea and air leads to the NEW JERUSALEM OF ETSAKO for the Canonical dedication of St John The Baptist Catholic Church, Ogbona, Etsako Central Local Government of Edo State by His Lordship Most Rev Dr Gabriel G Dunia, the Catholic Bishop of Auchi Diocese with his global entourage. Ogbona is the big heart and the heart of Etsako kingdom. So in the part 2 of our discourse we shall take a look at :   PERSECUTION, SUFFERING AND IMPRISONMENT OF THE PIONEER LAY FAITHFUL MEMBERS OF OGBONA CATHOLIC CHURCH. The arrest, trial, and imprisonment of of the pioneer members of the Catholic Church in Ogbona was the height of the British Colonial iron fist rule in Ogbona, Nigeria and West African Subregion in general at the dawn of the 20th Century. British stronghold in Nigeria was palpable in all spheres of life. . The Great Benin Massacre at the end of the 19th century was icy on the cake. Other smaller kingdoms suffer lesser or greater fate too. Manhandling a Court Bailiff was crass resistance and self assertion against British rule. Consequently everything has to be done to reassert British dominance in the political sphere, hence the summary trial and imprisonment of the early pioneering Lay Faithful in Ogbona in the early 1930, when Mr Agbiko Enamhino had an issue with one of the unbeliever. The battle line was drawn between the christians and the traditionalists in the order of the the battle line drawn between the offsprings of the woman (Eve) and the offsprings of the Serpent (Devil) by God in the Garden of Eden by God ( Gen3vs15; Rev12vs13-17).   Mr Agbiko Enamhino was served a writ of summon by the customary court Bailif from Fugar. The pioneer Catholic Lay Faithful members in Ogbona church resolved to break with the tradition as guarded by their christian faith against bribery and corruption by depriving the Court Bailiff his usual ” four pence, a fowl and tubers of yam.” When the court Bailiff insisted on collecting his entitlement (bribe) with threat and force , he was assaulted. This was a sacrilegious acts . It was fragrant disobedience to a constituted authority based in Auchi, which the British District Office did not find funny nor palatable. The Colonial D O personally came to Fugar to preside over the case. The pioneer members were sentenced to two (2) months imprisonment with fourteen (14) stroke of cane.   ST JOHN THE BAPTIST CATHOLIC CHURCH: THE PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE (PART3). There was no church in Auchi , being predominantly a Muslim Community where the seven (7) pioneer Lay Faithful members of the Catholic Church in Ogbona were jailed for two months as at 1931-1932. While serving their jail term, one strange event that boosted the inspiration, encouragement and boldness of the young Ogbona Catholic Church occurred in the prison cell. The strange occurrence was the discovery of a strange small bell Mr. Nicholas Apemheye Asekomhe while serving two months jail term along with six others pioneer members at Auchi prison on the account of their Catholic faith and the spread of the gospel of Christ in Ogbona and environs. “A day before the completion of their jail term, as usual after praying the Rosary, they all went to sleep, but early in the morning Mr. Nicholas Apemheye Asekomhe woke up to see a strange bell close to where he laid his head like in the days of the Apostles of Christ ( Acts 12vs 1-11). As they all pointed out , nobody entered their room that night. At the end they concluded it could be nothing but the miracle of God to boost their faith and commitment to the great commission of evangelisation” (Pastor Odior Anaweokhai’s unpublished

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Biography of Pa Pius Ebayode Igonor

Leave a Comment / Biographies of Ogbona Past Leaders /

Pa Pius Ebayode Igonor (a.k.a odigba-to baya), beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, in-law, cousin and friend was born in Ogbona, Etsako Central Local Government Area in Edo state, on 7th March 1940 to Mr. and Mrs. Patty Igonor-Oshiakpemhe. He was the fourth of five children and was the only son who lived for over 80 years. He has only one sister who is still alive till date aged 90. Pius Igonor lost his father at a tender age, and dropped out of school from the Native Authority (NA) Primary School in Ogbona, He left in standard two in 1956. He struggled to take care of himself through farm work, which earned him stipends that enabled him to survive. Thereafter, he left home to live with his brother in Ibadan. He worked briefly with a Lawyer named Abdullai Awomolo whom he served diligently. After a while, he decided to pick up a trade. He However, he still got engaged in a part time job as a Horticulturist, with Professor L.A. Thompson of the Department of Classics, University of Ibadan. He was very faithful and dedicated to his duties, as he maintained the beautiful compound No 3. Crowther Lane, which was a masterpiece within the entire University community. He became very well loved by the Thompsons who fondly called him “Pius”. They encouraged him to attend evening classes organized by the Extra-mural Programme at the University of Ibadan. Through this effort, he was able to improve his speaking and writing skills tremendously. Determined to be successful in life, he sought for employment as a Caterer/Supervisor under the Catering unit at the University. left to learn tailoring which he studied for 3 years (1956 – 1959). Following his graduation, he gained a reputation as a top-notch tailor in the community. He got the job with strong recommendation from the Thompsons in the year 1963. During this period, he served diligently at the Independence Hall and the Alexander Brown Hall, College of Medicine, University College Hospital (U.C.H) Ibadan, where he retired in 1985 voluntarily. Nevertheless, because of his need to educate his children to his utmost satisfaction, he took up a contract appointment with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) between 1988- 2001. He was awarded with Certificate of Excellence at the International House of the Institute for his outstanding performance. Pa. Pius was wedded to his amiable wife of over 60 years, Mrs. Theresa Igonor (Nee Esi- Balogun) on 14th October 1961 at the Catholic Church Ogbona. The union is blessed with children and grandchildren. With his wife, Pa Pius went to Canada to visit his children and grandchildren. He lived in Abuja from 2005-2015, after which he decided to relocate to his village in Ogbona, Edo state.

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2022 Aduikukwa

Leave a Comment / History and Culture of Avhianwu Clan" /

2022 Aduikwu kwa Day : Ogbona Sub Clan updated some of the community Rules Aduikwu kwa day is the traditional new year in Avhianwu clan and it was held on Friday 4th March, 2022 The Okpeukpi of Ogbona sub clan head, HRH Chief Willy Idode and the council of chiefs announced changes to the community burial programs to reduce the burden on the people. Is no longer compulsory to buy a cow for your mother or father’s family during burial. However, if you have the means and choose to buy one, is at your discretion. Not compulsory to cook or buy drinks for people while the body is still in the mortuary. Anyone caught eating and drinking in the house of the bereaved will be fined N5,000. Visitors are allowed to drink but cooking is totally out of it

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PRICE OF WAR…. Barr.Felix Jones Osimerha

Leave a Comment / History and Culture of Ogbona /

PRICE OF WAR…. Barr.Felix Jones Osimerha This is the EDC Primary School headmaster’s residence that is still standing but uninhabited now. In the mid 1960s, it was housing the headmaster and was one of the good “modern” houses in Ogbona village. Most houses were thatched roof and very susceptible to fire from the naked Ugburi which was a stick of chaff made from palm nuts after palm oil have been extracted from them. I remember one early night in the mid 1960s, how the zinc roof house of Papa Okhakuobomhe was engulfed in fire. We rushed to the scene and watched from Papa Ighiegwe’s house adjacent to the burning house. We heard that petrol was being poured into a basin when someone brought in the naked light that ignited the petrol. We heard shouts that the fire be curtailed as it can cause all the houses in the village to be burnt down, as the zinc sheets will turn red and be flying to other houses. We the children believed this story and feared that our houses will also be burnt. One late afternoon, a monkey ran out from the direction of the present house of Papa Odalumhe and it was vigorously pursued by young men and it ran across the sticks fence of the EDC primary school into the school. It was hotly pursued and it climbed one of the palm trees that were in the area of the school closed to the school garden. That day, the palm tree was fell and the monkey killed. In Ogbona it was regarded that if an animal strayed into the village and killed, it must be taken to the eldest man, who after consultation with other elders and the gods, a decision is taken on what to do to the animal. On this occasion, I learnt the monkey was given to the youths. On another day during a burial ceremony at Ivhianaga center where a small roundabout is today, an Antelepe strayed into the venue and it was pursued and killed. Many years later I saw a beautiful animal of the deer family with seven different colors killed in the same manner. It was brought to my maternal father, Papa Momoh Umole who was the eldest man in Ogbona at the time. I asked my grandfather, the name of the animal and he said he does not know the name and confessed that in his 100 years on earth as at that time, he had never seen such an animal. I was emotional and shedded tears, why such a beautiful animal much smaller than the Antelepe was killed because it strayed into the village. I was made to understand that it was a bad omen for a bush animal to stray into the village. Such animal is called Eliamhi itsape and it breeds trouble. General Bolivia captured this Eliamhi Itsape in his hit song “Obanor” General Boliviia started the song with” Obanor ye, Eliamhi Itsape lor konemho na, emhorele or relena oooh” (pardon my poor vernacular). At Ivhianaga Quarters center opposite Papa Esue’s house was a large tree we called Obada and logs of wood were arranged under it where men relaxed from the scorching sun after the farm work or on Ekhue market days when many did not go to the farms. The Obada tree was subsequently fell and there lies the intersections of the three roads with a small roundabout today. I can still remember that the logs and arranged wood under the Obada tree is called “Ogidigba” and there was a similar one in front of Papa Okhamera’s one storey building in Ivhiorevho quarters. Yea I remember the few one storey buildings “upstairs” in Ogbona then. There were the Anetekhai’s upstairs, Inaede’s upstairs, iyornagbe Eghieye’s upstairs, Okhamera’s upstairs, Ikhane’s Upstairs, Omadimhe’s upstairs, Orbih’s upstairs, Asekome (Akaka) ‘s upstairs, Abu’ s upstairs, Anabor’s upstairs, Itsuokor’s upstairs and another behind present day Anaweokhai ‘s house and that was the upstairs, a youth jumped down from through the window and we saw him then as a superman. I still know this youth who is a grandfather now………..just living the memories of the past in Ogbona. Barr.Felix Jones Osimerha

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Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited Donates a Block of 15 Classrooms, 3 Science Labs, ICT Centre, Borehole, Others to Ogbona Secondary School, Ogbona, Etsako Central, Edo State

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Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited Donates a Block of 15 Classrooms, 3 Science Labs, ICT Centre, Borehole, Others to Ogbona Secondary School, Ogbona, Etsako Central, Edo State By Elias Inaede   Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited, an affiliate of ExxonMobil, has  donated a block of I5 Classrooms with State of the art  facilities to Ogbona Secondary School, Ogbona.   The building has  components of 3 Science laboratories, an ICT Centre, a Reading Room, Principal and Vice Principal’s Offices, Staff Common Room, 20 toilets and furnishing and Equipment of 450 Students Desks/Teachers Tables/Chairs, Lab Equipment, 60 Computers and Accessories, Generator/Generator house and a borehole.   The importance of quality education no doubt  especially Science technology World over cannot be overemphasized in view of the fact that therein lies the key  to unlocking a community’s technological advancement. The paying of lip service to education by successive governments in Nigeria  has contributed to the fallen of education standard in most parts of the country.   The result of this negligence on the part of government is obvious. Many of the State owned Schools are without qualified teachers, Vital Resource Centre, good Science laboratories as well as teaching aids .The consequences are both for the students and the host community.   Commissioning the project, the Catholic Bishop of Auchi Diocese, His Lordship,  Most Reverend Dr. Gabriel Dunia prayed for the donors and their partners  for yielding to the Clarion call of the Community.   Bishop Dunia appreciated the donors for their love towards the progress and well-being of the Students of the school and the community.   The  Okphe Ukpi of Ogbona,  HRH  Willy Idode  appealed to the State Government to accept the challenge of putting the projects to profitable use. He enumerated some of the school  needs to include adequate number of teachers in all subjects areas, books and other learning materials amongst others.   The traditional Ruler commended Esso Exploration and Mr. Gilbert Odior for remembering the community and urged other Corporate Organizations to emulate such gestures for the overall improvement of the Nigerian Society.   In his address, Representative of Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited at the ceremony Mr. Peter Agba, said,  Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited, a subsidiary of ExxonMobil heeded the Clarion call of Ogbona Community and decided to construct a story building in the School with the following components : 15 Classrooms, 3 Science  laboratory,an I CT Centre, a Reading Room, Principal and Vice Principal’s Offices and Staff Common Room.   While wishing the Students best of learning in the new facility Mr. Aigba also appealed to the State Government for better staffing of the School to ensure the proper utilization of the State of the art  facilities donated by Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited to improve the quality of learning in the School.   In her goodwill message,  Edo State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Joan Osa Oviawe, said , the donation by Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited was a demonstration of their Corporate responsibility to contribute to the educational development in the Country.   The  Senior Secondary  School Principal , Mr. Thaddeus Anabor,  commended Esso Exploration, adding that,  the task of building and rebuilding a citadel of learning was an enormous one that requires unity and cooperation from all and sundry.   He also commended Ogbona Elites Forum for the employment and regular payment of thirteen temporal  teachers in the past six years to impact the standard of learning in the School.

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BIOGRAPHY OF LATE CHIEF JOHN IKUKU ANABOR (THE EKHAYOUNO OF AVIANWU KINGDOM AND THE OGHIE ISESE OF OGBONA LAND) (THE PEACE MAKER) A.K.A OYEGUN

Leave a Comment / Biographies of Ogbona Past Leaders /

BIOGRAPHY OF LATE CHIEF JOHN IKUKU ANABOR (THE EKHAYOUNO OF AVIANWU KINGDOM AND THE OGHIE ISESE OF OGBONA LAND) (THE PEACE MAKER) A.K.A OYEGUN This great son of Ogbona land was born into the family of Late Chief Anabor Atogwe and Mrs. Omomhiruevho Anabor about 90 years ago . Late Chief John Anabor had a very humble beginning as the father; Chief Anabor Atogwe was one of the most respected Daodu in Avianwu Kingdom. Though he had no formal education, Chief John Anabor at an early age had a clear vision of what life could be and as such equipped himself with a very high level of intelligence that would help him to transform into greatness. Chief Ikuku Anabor made an indisputably rapid progress in life. He started farming career at an early age under the strict supervision of his father. From the little savings he made from farming, he was able to marry and establish a Trading Business in 1960 and 1961 respectively. His marriage to Miss Fatima Orbih ( a woman of excellence ) brought invaluable and estimable progress to the family . The Trading Business established by “Baba Oyegun” as he was fondly called expanded the status of the business to the standard of a supermarket by 1961. Baba Oyegun trans versed the Eastern and Western parts of Nigeria to buy stock for the expanded business. He started with Onitsha Main market but when the Civil War broke out in 1967, he changed his routes to Ibadan and Lagos market. His main sources for his stock were Dugbe and Mokola markets in Ibadan and Oyingbo, Ebute Ero and Idumota markets in Lagos. In 1971, he further expanded the business to include sales of liquor. As at this period, only off License permits were issued to liquor dealers. He was the first trader to obtain an “on Liecence in Avianwu”  “on License” indicates that you can buy and consume liquor at the place of purchase. Baba Oyegun had a great passion for politics. He was a quintessential politician who remained indomitable and unbeatle in his political career. He was never self-centered as equity and fairness were his political philosophy. His political journey started in 1951 when he became one of the founding fathers of NCNC in Afenmai Division. He later defected to Action Group in 1962 till when the military took power via a coup de tat in 1966. When the ban on political activities was lifted in 1978, he pitched his political tent with the National Party of Nigeria (NPN). He was elected the Youth Leader for Avianwu Ward in 1979 till 1983 when the military struck the second time in 1988, when the ban on politics was lifted again, he became a member of the All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP) and later defected to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the year 2005. He was elected the PDP Ward Leader for Ward 4 in 2011; A position he maintained till his demise on the 3rd of November, 2021. It is historically recorded that this bold and fearless politician never lose election in this Ward inspite of the political intimidations and gangsterism perpetuated by the then Ruling Party in the state. Aside politics, Chief John Anabor worked as a civil servant with the Authorities of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital. He was the Head of the Horticulture Unit where he worked meritoriously and compulsorily retired in 2011. Chief John Anabor was a community leader who displayed uncommon leadership qualities. As a result of his sterling leadership qualities and his contributions towards the development of Avianwu Clan, he was honoured with the chieftaincy title of  “Ekhayoumo of  Avianwu Kingdom” by the Late Royal Majesty (HRH Chief P.A Oboarekpe) in the year 2007 . Also, because of his roles in ensuring peace and harmony in Ogbona land, he was installed by the sub-clan head of Ogbona ( HRH Chief Willy Idode) as the Oghie Isese of Ogbona land in year 2012. The Isese Chiefs are the wise men responsible for peaceful resolutions of all family and inter-family conflicts in Ogbona. He was the sage that piloted the affairs of this Palace for almost 10 years. Baba Oyegyun as he was fondly called by his children was an umbrella /pillar of the support to many families. He provided financial, material and guidance services for very many people. He was the patriarch of the Atogwe’s family of Ogbona. He united the entire family and led them in their family meetings which were held weekly. Though he was not literate, he had great passion for education. He starved to ensure that all his children, grand children and foster children got the quality of education they desire. He was full of human kindness. Because of his humane nature, he gave scholarship to five Ogbona indigenes to study in various Higher Institutions of learning. Chief John Ikuku Anabor was born into a Mulism family and given the name “Busari”. He converted to Christianity in 1955 and was baptized into the Catholic Faith in 1957 by Rev. Canaan who was accompanied by Rev. Fr. M. Grace of blessed memory. He wedded his loving wife in the year 2010 to further buttress his commitment to Christendom. He was a cheerful giver and a pillar of support to church development. His assistance towards church development was not restricted to the Catholic Church alone. Chief John Anabor made friends and kept them till old age. He had them in quantum and in droves, both old and young, males and females, strong and feeble, rich and poor, particularly the later. His friendship with Chief Azuaye Umoru was something else. They were like soul mates and siamese twins. Also, Chief Jacob Orbih, though an In-Law to him, was like his twins brother. Emmanuel Otoaye and Mallam Kasimu Esimhekua were his pet friends. He kept them till he went to rest eternally with his creator . Chief John Ikuku Anabor was a socialite who lived a fulfilled life. There

BIOGRAPHY OF LATE CHIEF JOHN IKUKU ANABOR (THE EKHAYOUNO OF AVIANWU KINGDOM AND THE OGHIE ISESE OF OGBONA LAND) (THE PEACE MAKER) A.K.A OYEGUN Read More »

GRAND HANDOVER OF OUR GIVE BACK LEGACY PROJECT AMBIENCE ENTRANCE GATE, OVER 700 METERS FRONT PERIMETER FENCE AND THE SECURITY HOUSE TO OUR ALMA MATER

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WELCOME SPEECH BY CLASS OF 1993 GRAND HANDOVER OF OUR GIVE BACK LEGACY PROJECT AMBIENCE ENTRANCE GATE, OVER 700 METERS FRONT PERIMETER FENCE AND THE SECURITY HOUSE TO OUR ALMA MATER. A very warm welcome to the Honourable Comrade Philip Shaibu, Deputy Governor of Edo State, Most Reverend Dr. Gabriel Dunia, Catholic Bishop of Auchi, Esteemed Special Guests, Royal Fathers, Dignitaries, Current and Former Teachers, Fellow Alumni, Ladies and Gentlemen. We also welcome and thank the Chairman for agreeing to Chair this event. We feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to address all of you on the auspicious occasion of the grand handover ceremony of my Class of 1993 Give Back Legacy project: AMBIENCE ENTRANCE GATE, OVER 700 METERS FRONT PERIMETER FENCE AND THE SECURITY HOUSE TO OUR ALMA MATER. Today is very important for us because it also gives us an opportunity to meet with many graduate students, former teachers, and other staff members almost 30 years after. We also get an opportunity to see the infrastructural changes and developments in the school. It is always a thrilling moment for alumni to come back to their school grounds and interact with new students. The Class of 1993 came together a little over a year ago to foster unity, provide desired assistance to members and give back to the school that nurtured our formative years. What we are celebrating today is the power of unity, resilience, friendship, and collaboration, which led to achieving this and many other accomplishments since our reunion. Once again, I am very happy to welcome you all. We have so many activities lined up today, so I request you enjoy this entertaining evening and leave with fond memories. God bless you all. I will now pass it on to the Chairman of this event. His Excellency the Deputy Governor Edo State, The Catholic Bishop Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel Dunia, HRHs, Distinguished Guests, Ladies, and gentlemen. Thank you all for honoring our invitation and sharing this special day with Class of 1993. The Class embarked on constructing a portion of the school perimeter fence firstly to secure the school land, and for the security of students and staff of the school. The idea of the Ambience Gate Entrance is to enhance the prestige and dignity of our Alma Mater and open it up to more possibilities. We consulted with relevant stakeholders on the priority needs of the school before embarking on this onerous but fulfilling initiative. The ground-breaking ceremony held on April 19, 2021, with representation from State Education Inspectorate. We aimed to hand over the project in seven months, being December 2021. Delivering this impressive work of our hands today is a testament to our zeal and tenacity. Fast forward four months later, our class was in ‘fundraising fatigue’ and had to resort to external funding appeal. Our first major endorsements early December was from Chief Dan Orbi, Chief Abu Inu Umoru and my dearest Husband Nnama, who I had to lean on technically and financially from the get-go. Mr. Innocent Anabor, Jane Blankson, Peter Ivaluogwe and I (members of Class Admin), constituted a kitchen cabinet that steadied the ship in faltering moments. Our ever-enthusiastic home girl Emily Aruokhai and Project Engineer/ Supervisor Benjamin Aliu, deserve mention. Today, we can proudly state that we have accomplished approximately 0.7 Kilometre (700 metres) of the front perimeter fencing, brought in ‘NEPA’ light with two high tension electric poles, threw in a few streetlights and even put our school on the World Wide Web! There is still a long way to go to fence the whole school, considering the large expanse of land therein. This is a clarion call to all invited guests, those watching via our live-stream service, Avianwu indigenes in diaspora and people of goodwill, to please give generously towards the fencing of the whole school land. As you are all pleasantly aware, Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited, built and donated an ICT Centre and fully equipped science laboratories to the school, that will be open for use by the school from today! This is a great news that is equally complimented by the imposing new Ambience Gate to herald the New Face of Ogbona Secondary School! We look forward to our great alma matter being made a boarding school and centre of academic excellence. Our school urgently needs government funding and support, including posting quality teachers and taking care of their remunerations. We dare to hope that one day we may be upgraded to a satellite campus and (why not?) a tertiary institution. After all we have the land and clime! Our Class lingo that fired us up in moments of despondency was YES, WE CAN. Today, to the glory of God we can all proudly shout YES, WE DID. May God bless and grant us journey mercies back home to our families. YES, WE DID IT!! Visit us @ www.Ogbonasecondaryschool.com His Royal Highness Chief Willy Idode, welcome address at school building and gate/fence projects handing over to Edo State Government, December 27, 2021 Protocols Today is yet another epoch-making one in our recent history as a community. I am not surprisingly elated, therefore, welcoming your excellency and other  honourable and distinguished guests to this ceremony. As you may already know, two very important projects which are key to the educational development of our community and the advancement of academic pursuit of our children and wards in Ogbona Secondary School are being handed over to the Edo State Government: One-kilometre long perimeter fencing and ambience gate undertaken by the Old Students of Class 1993, and A Block of 15 classrooms; a Reading Room; Principal and Vice Principal’s offices; Staff Common room; 3 Science labs; an ICT Centre furnished with (student desks/Teachers tables/chairs, Lab equipment, Computers/ accessories), Generator House, Generator, Power Supply, and a borehole and 20 toilets. Your excellency, distinguished guests, we are here today because of the benevolence of our children who have pulled their personal resources as well as contacts together

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PROVISION OF A BLOCK OF CLASSROOMS, COMPUTER LABORATORIES AND OFFICES IN OGBONA SECONDARY SCHOOL, OGBONA EDO STATE

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PROVISION OF A BLOCK OF CLASSROOMS, COMPUTER LABORATORIES AND OFFICES IN OGBONA SECONDARY SCHOOL, OGBONA EDO STATE. Ogbona is a community located in Etsako Central local government area in the northern part of Edo state. Traditionally a rusty agrarian community, the leadership of Ogbona had long realized that importance of education for its children and further understood that the various secondary schools in neighbouring communities where her children currently study are not enough to fully cater for the needs of her wards. Thus, through ardent community efforts and uncommon sacrifice Ogbona Secondary was established in 1980. It became not just the darling secondary school of the Ogbona community, but several neighbouring communities began to send their children to Ogbona secondary school in their droves. In 1984, the then Bendel State government (now Edo state) took-over the management of the school from the community. From the take-over period till date, there was basically developmental efforts from the government to improve or add to the structural and academic facilities of the secondary school. Most of the classrooms, laboratories, offices were dilapidated and in dire need of attention. Due to the deplorable state of the school facilities, the Ogbona community sought the assistance of Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited (EEPNL) to give the school an infrastructural facelift. In 2015, Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited, a subsidiary of ExxonMobil, as part of their community work, heeded the clarion of Ogbona community and decided to construct a storey building in the school with the following components: 15 classrooms; 3 Science labs; an ICT Centre; a Reading Room; Principal and Vice Principal’s offices; Staff Common room; and 20 toilets. Furnishing and Equipment (450 student desks/Teachers tables/chairs, Lab equipment, 60 Computers/ accessories) Generator House, Generator, Power Supply, and a borehole  ICT Center Procure and install 20’’ Dell LCD Monitors Projector and Screen, Toshiba, Model TDP-PX10U Liaise with a Service Provider and install a Main Server with a broad bandwidth subscription and associated equipment required for connectivity to the school  Classrooms Procure and install Double Desks and Chairs for the pupils and teachers as described in the bill Procure and install wooden tables of dimensions 1.6m long, 0.8m wide and 0.75m high and chairs Procure and install 6 No. 3.0m x 1.5m x 25mm wall mounted dry erase magnetic white board (1 in each classroom). Procure and Supply 12 (twelve) packets of Dry Erase Marker (Non-Toxic MonAmi White Board Marker). Manufacturer – MonAmi Co Ltd, Thailand. Procure and Supply 12 Dusters (2 for each board) Procure and Supply 12 White Board Cleaner Spray (STRONG)  Offices Procure and install wooden tables of dimensions 1.6m long, 0.8m wide and 0.75m high Procure and install Bookshelves each measuring 0.9m x 0.9m x 0.45 and with.  Toilets & Utility Room Drill 150mm uncased borehole by motorized rotary rig to a depth not less than 100m for installation of 100mm diameter casing (cost to include borehole log & log report detailing equipment graphic plot and data interpretation) Provide and construct water distribution lines complete with all necessary fittings from the borehole to elevated tank and from the elevated tanks to the hook-up points in the classroom block. Design and install a mini water treatment plant to make the water potable. Electrical connections of the facility shall be installed in the utilities room in the classroom block as detailed in the electrical sketch and bill Procure and install 450 X 600X 6mm thick float glass silver-colored mirrors  Mobilization for the project started late 2015 and continued through 2016 to 2018. During the construction there were several changes in the business environment that led to revision in the project cost and timeline. The furnishing was separated from the construction, and it took almost 3 years to award the furnishing part of the project. The mobilization for the furnishing started early 2020 but was quickly disrupted by the Covid-19 and restrictions. Furnishing was completed late 2020 and early 2021 but the project could not be handed over to the community due to disruptions from the various waves of the Covid-19 and security. Other communities moved into their buildings without a handover ceremony, however, Ogbona Secondary school was waiting on a formal handover. Today ceremony marks the official moving into the new building and taking advantage of the opportunities it presents. We wish the students and the community the best of learning in this new facility that is about the best you can find in the whole of Edo state. The community is hereby appealing to the Edo State Government for a better staffing of the school to enable the proper utilization of the laboratories, ICT Centers, and other facilities. We thank you for your presence and attention. His Royal Highness Chief Willy Idode, welcome address at school building and gate/fence projects handing over to Edo State Government, December 27, 2021  Protocols Today is yet another epoch-making one in our recent history as a community. I am not surprisingly elated, therefore, welcoming your excellency and other  honourable and distinguished guests to this ceremony. As you may already know, two very important projects which are key to the educational development of our community and the advancement of academic pursuit of our children and wards in Ogbona Secondary School are being handed over to the Edo State Government: One-kilometre long perimeter fencing and ambience gate undertaken by the Old Students Of Class 1993, and A Block of 15 classrooms; a Reading Room; Principal and Vice Principal’s offices; Staff Common room; 3 Science labs; an ICT Centre furnished with (student desks/Teachers tables/chairs, Lab equipment, 60 Computers/ accessories), Generator House, Generator, Power Supply, and a borehole and 20 toilets. Your excellency, distinguished guests, we are here today because of the benevolence of our children who have pulled their personal resources as well as contacts together for the benefit of the younger generation and the community. On behalf of the elders, leaders and people of Ogbona community, I heartily appreciate these donations. Let me thank in a very special

PROVISION OF A BLOCK OF CLASSROOMS, COMPUTER LABORATORIES AND OFFICES IN OGBONA SECONDARY SCHOOL, OGBONA EDO STATE Read More »

Celebration of The Life and Times of late High Chief Christiana Erua Anabor (1927 — 2021)

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Celebration of The Life and Times of late High Chief Christiana Erua Anabor (1927 — 2021) By Elias Inaede, The death of High Chief Christiana Amina Erua Anabor has indeed created a huge vacuum in the Anabor’s dynasty of Ogbona town in Etsako Central local government area. She was a woman of substance whose footprints are indelible in the annals of Avhianwu community being an illustrious daughter of Ogbona community, her passage would surely be felt by the entire community. Late High Chief Christiana Erua Anabor was a successful business woman who traded across several States and Regions, a successful Politician, a humanist par excellence and a community leader and a Mobilizer of note. Born on the 5th of May 1927 to the family of late Johnny Emokidi and Omonaya Braimoh Omoakhia of blessed memory in Ivhianagah quarter of Ogbona, her life was an epitome of selflessness, humanity. She was a member of the Avhianwu roll call of honour having performed her cooking Ukpe No khua which means cooking all delicacies for the entire community. Late Christiana Amina Erua Anabor was a reference point till death. She was member of many Cultural Organizations such as Izi,Agbi and Atsamukoko dance Groups among others as a result of her love for her community. It is not the abundance of wealth a man acquires that counts, but the way he or she touched the lives of those around him while alive. As a result of her contributions to the development of her community, she was conferred with a prestigious Chieftaincy title as the Oreghokpe of Avhianwu by the then Oghieavhianwu of Avhianwu Clan, HRH Chief Ajayi Patrick Oboarekpe making her the first woman in the entire Clan to be honoured with a Chieftaincy title. She was also a committed member of the Roman Catholic faith and earned many Awards of Recognition and was sponsored to the holy Pilgrimage to Jerusalem which earned her the Justice Of Peace title. She was indeed a woman of many parts whose sojourn on earth brought transformation and uplifing to the downtrodden and the hopeless in the society. Late High Chief Christiana Erua Anabor was a coverage to the less Privileged and the entire Anabor’s dynasty . Her demise, no doubt has created a huge vaccum in the family. She passed on at a time her valuable services were most needed by the family and the community. She was an icon of inestimable value as a result of her humanitarian and Philantropic gestures. The social ceremony which took at the weekend at Oboarekpe Primary School Playing Ground attracted eminent personalities from all walks of life to the community to pay their their last respect to a woman who did her best to promote humanity. A Requiem Mass was held on Sunday 13th September, 2021 in honour of the deceased at St. John De Baptist Catholic Church, Ogbona. In his homily, the Parish Priest, Reverend Father Philip Omohekhe while quoting from the book of Ecclesiastes said life is vanity upon . The Cleric, Charged Believers to dedicate themselves to the expansion of the gospel and humanity in order to receive the blessings of Almighty God. In his tribute, Eldest son of the deceased, Mr. Moses Anabor described her mother as a selfless woman who made a positive impact in the lives of the people around her and the community. In his farewell message, Mr. Emmanuel Anabor said his mother lived a fulfilled life and prayed God to grant her soul eternal rest. In his remark, Son of the deceased , Mr. Simeon Anabor stated that her mother was the candle that burns on both sides and that her legacies would stand the test of time. He added that it is traditionally and Spiritually bestowed on a child to honour his or her parents. He described her mother as an encyclopedia on cultural heritage While eulogising her, the daughter in-law of the deceased, Honourable Justice Juliet Emmanuel Anabor described her as a loving and caring mother and the best friend anyone could wish to have. The first grand Child of the deceased, Hon. Anthony Oshanor Ogboabor said the deceased is t the grand mother one would love to have and prayed God to accept her soul. Late High Chief Christiana Erua Anabor died at the age of 95 years. She is survived by ten Children and many grand and great grand Children.  

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Biography of Asapokhai Umayo Christopher of Ivhiorewoh quarters, Ogbona

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Mr. Asapokhai Umayo Christopher of Ivhiorewoh quarters, Ogbona, Etsako Centra, Edo State. He was born to the family of Late Mr. & Mrs. Enekhume Anthony on the 7th day of May 1951 in Kano State, Nigeria. Mr. Christopher Umayo Asapokhai was the 1st of 7children in a monogamous family. He had his primary education in Kano State and proceeded to St. John’s Grammar School Fugar in Edo State where he sat for his West Africa School Leaving Certificate in the year 1971. He was a well known sports man playing in their basketball team at the time and representing the then Bendel State at State and National tournaments. The famous Hakeem Olajuwon picked interest in basketball while watching Mr. Christopher Asapokhai and his team train back then in Kano State. Sadly, a knee injury brought his sports career to an abrupt end. Mr. Christopher Umayo Asapokhai due to his interest in nursing, wrote the nursing entrance exam and gained admission into the then Bendel State School of Nursing Benin in the year 1975 and completed his training in the year 1977 were he emerged as the best Practical nurse of the year. Mr. Christopher Umayo Asapokhai got employment with the Health Management board, Auchi as a staff nurse in the year 1978. There he got steady promotion until he was transferred to the General Hospital, Obiaruku were he stood out amongst his colleagues. On the the 3rd day of June 1983, he resigned from his job with the State Government after he got employment with the then prestigious Delta Steel Company, Ovwian -Aladja, Delta State. He worked with dedication in the company for 20 years. In 2003 he joined Chevron Nigeria Limited as a contract nurse and retired at 60yrs in the year 2011. Even though he was retired, he was not tired following his workaholic nature. Due to his vast wealth of knowledge, he got employed at Lily Hospital, Warri where he worked in various capacities. He was the head of Trainings at Lily Hospital, Warri till his demise. Uncle Chris as he was fondly called by colleagues and friends was also a registered BLS and ACLS with the American Heart Association. As a Nurse he was so caring, he was more of a friend to his patients than a nurse. He was a mentor to numerous nurses whom he impacted with his knowledge and experience. He was always putting smiles on their faces. To his Colleagues he was more of a brother and a friend, there was never a dull moment with him. Mr. Christopher Umayo Asapokhai found the Lord in the 90s and he remained steadfast in the faith, he practiced his faith at home, work place and the community at large. He was a dedicated member of The Masters Place International Church. Mr Christopher Umayo Asapokhai was happily married to Mary Asapokhai who is also a Nurse by training and they are blessed with four married children and 9 grandchildren to the glory of God. We celebrate you our dear father, father in law, grand father, brother, uncle, friend and adviser. You have left your foot prints in the sand of time and we salute your exemplary Morals. We give thanks to the almighty God for a life which was well spent. Continue to rest in the bosom of Lord. Goodnight!!

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