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Profiles of Ogbona Prominent Persons

Leave a Comment / Profiles of Some of Ogbona Men and Women /

Pastor (Mrs.) Julie Inu Umoru First full ordained RCCG female Pastor in Edo province 3. Currently the state deputy president of National Association of proprietors of private school in Edo state. She is a mother, a teacher, a preacher of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Ogieavianwu gave her a chieftaincy title in 1995 as the UFIOLE of Avianwu as mark of her contribution to Ogbona. Sister Julie, Auntie Julie and Pastor Julie, is a sister and a friend for life. She is one of the early women elites from Ogbona. She always happy for you and your family all the time and also available to help the community anytime. Thank you for your support to our community, care and prayers over the years. A fair skinned baby was born at the crack of dawn on Tuesday, July 9th 1946 to Mr. Joseph and Christiana Anaweokhai in the bustling commercial town of Onitsha, Anambra State. (Formerly known as Eastern Region). The second of six children. That baby was named Juliana Omonemi. Juliana attended Holy Rosary catholic school. She grew up with a desire to be a nun but the untimely death of her mother at age 13 changed the course of her academic and subsequently, her career direction. After the death of her mother, she went to live with her uncle where she completed her Standard six at Immaculata conception convent primary School. After completing her primary education, she went to live with her eldest brother, Chief Vital Anaweokhai in NIFOR. She later went on to Teachers training college in Warri and then went on to complete her Grade 2 in 1966. She later went on to Nigeria College of education, Abraka and bagged an NCE in 1978 and immediately went on to do her NYSC (National Youth Service). Juliana was born a devout Catholic and was baptized and confirmed at Holy Rosary Catholic church, Onitsha. However in 1992 she gave her life to God in Benin City, Edo state. Juliana became a teacher and taught Geography for 27 years before she retired voluntarily in 1993. Juliana’s love for academic stirred her to open her own school. In 1994, Brighter Tomorrow group of schools was born. In March 2002, she joined the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Blessed Parish, Auchi, where she went on to be a full Ordained Pastor in August 2015. Juliana is blessed with 2 children, and 6 Grandchildren.  She is also very blessed with many godchildren and spiritual children. For Juliana, giving her life to Christ is the greatest thing that has happened to her. With all her accomplishments she never fails to ascribe it all to God. She uses the phrase “If Jesus tarries” so often that it’s now been a part of her. Looking at Juliana’s journey over the last 70 years would make anyone awed by the magnificence of God Juliana is fondly called ‘Okpotso’ by her closest friends. When she is not engaged in her School or in Church activities, she enjoys spending time with her children and grandchildren and keeping herself up to date with social media.   Profile of Mrs. Theresa Ekamhefa Abu Mrs. Abu Theresa Ekamhefa was born on 17th March, 1952, her parents are late pa Luke Amiekhamhe, who was the head Christian of Ogbona and Cecelia Amiekhamhe, Attended Saint John primary school, Ogbona and later continued in Lagos  where she obtained primary 6 certificate , married to late Isaac Abu in 1968, was enlisted into the Nigeria police force in March 1978 in Lagos, and rose to the rank of an inspector and later posted to Edo state in 1991 where she worked at the Police Training School and in the Police officers Mess and finally retired successfully in 2012 without blemish after 35yrs. To God be the glory. She lives in Benin City In a male dominated profession she was able to rise to the position of a police inspector. Meet this woman with a great smile and that radiates an atmosphere of love anytime you meet her.     The Profile of Mary Omosike Charles Anwaosi Her names are Mary Omosike Charles Anwaosi, born to the family of Lucy and Charles Anwaosi from Ivhiobore quarter in Ogbona. She was born in Zaria in 1964, but grew up in Ibadan Oyo state, where she had her primary/secondary education, then later relocated to the United Kingdom where she obtained a diploma from South Bank polytechnic, South East London. She moved to the United States of America where and lived there for 20 years and graduated from Long Island University, Brooklyn, New York with a BSc in Business management. Also attended one of the best beauty schools in New York USA, Tinny’s Beauty and figure where she became a trained aesthetician (Laser Cosmetics Surgeon) qualified to work with laser beams. She also obtained certification as a licensed practical nurse (LPN) from the Staten Island University New York USA with several years of experience in nursing practical in the USA. Mary relocated to Nigeria in the year 1999 and became the first person to introduce permanent cosmetics (permanent makeup and body tattoo) to the beauty industry in Nigeria, and has received various awards to that respect. She is the brain behind the popular outfit known as Twinkul Skincare and laser treatment located at Emporium plaza Allen Avenue Ikeja Lagos and a branch at Centro Lekki Mall, Lekki phase 1, Lekki Lagos. Her clientele list consist of high-profile personnel such as the late Stella Obasanjo. She was the coordinator of the Better Life for rural women an NGO initiated by late Mariam Babangida. She is a member of the Rotary club International and also a member of the Association of practitioner of Spa and medical aesthetics of Nigeria.    Dr. Dorothy Lovina Kufeji (Nee Asapokhai) First Female medical doctor from Ogbona (Paediatric Surgeon) Dorothy Kufeji FRCS (Eng.), FRCS (Paed), specialises in neonatal surgery and paediatric colorectal surgery at Guys and St Thomas’ hospital in London. She performed the first laparoscopic ACE

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Biographies of Some of the Great Ogbona Men and Women

Leave a Comment / Biographies of Ogbona Past Leaders, History and Culture of Ogbona /

THE BIOGRAPHY OF HRH ALHAJI PATRICK AJAYI OBOAREKPE (JP) THE GIEAVIANWU OF AVIANWU. His Royal Highness, Alhaji P.A Oboarekpe (JP) was born in the year of our Lord on November 18th, 1922. He was born into the Ogbona ruling house in Avianwu Clan by peasant parents and as such had a humble beginning. GENEALOGY AND PLACE OF BIRTH HRH Alhaji P.A Oboarekpe hails from Ivhitse quarter in Ogbona Sub-clan-head zone of Avianwu Clan. His father Oboarekpe was the eldest son of Akpheokhai of Ivhiste, while his mother Aghiegho Oboarekpe was the eldest daughter of Agbayekhai who hailed from Okotor quarter of Iraokhor in Iraokhor Sub-clan head zone of Avianwu Clan, all in Etsako Central Local Government area of Edo State. HRH Alhaji P.A Oboarekpe was the 4th child of his father. EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND AND ACHIEVEMENTS It was customary in those difficult periods in the introduction of western education in Nigeria that only those children who were not good in farm work, but gifted with intelligence would aspire to obtain western education and they were sent to missionary schools. Patrick Ajayi Oboarekpe as he was known at the time got favoured in this regard.  He started his early primary education in 1937 at the then St. John’s Catholic School, Ogbona, and now Oboarekpe primary school (named after him). He completed and obtained the Standard Six School Leaving Certificate in 1945 at the Sacred Heart Catholic School at Agenebode in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State. In 1946 he was employed as a teacher and was posted to St. Peter’s Catholic School at Afashio, Uzairue, in Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State under the Catholic Mission. He later proceeded to St. John Bosco College at Ubiaja, where he successfully obtained the Teacher’s Grade III certificate in 1948. He worked assiduously as a classroom teacher and later as Headmaster in various locations in Etsako. While in service, he initiated very many innovative activities that attracted many unwilling children to develop the love for education. Through his untiring quest for the expansion of schools in Etsako, he assisted the missionaries in no small measure in the opening up of schools in deep rural communities where he personally accepted payless jobs in teaching rural pupils. He was a sport enthusiast who won many laurels during the Empire Day Sports Meets that were organized under the auspices of the then colonial masters. He was a sprinter, a distant runner, a footballer and a wrestler. TRADITIONAL LEADERSHIP PERIOD While he was still in service, judging from his indomitable organizing ability and his love for corporate values and unity of purpose, he was called by his people to occupy the stool of the leadership of Ogbona, following the exit of the incumbent Ukpi Drummer, late Chief Okozi who was the then village head. In 1955, in response to the yearning and aspiration of the people of Ogbona, he accepted the challenge and took over the reins of office in the community alongside his teaching career. He later found this to be cumbersome, combining these duties and in 1958, he resigned from teaching voluntarily to avail himself full opportunity to govern the community more effectively. During this early period of his reign, he was appointed into the Customary Court Judicial Service Commission and he served as a member of the Customary Court in Fugar, headquarters of Etsako Central Local Government Area from 1967 to 1974. In 1984, following the exit of HRH Alhaji J.A Alao (JP), the then Clan Head of Avianwu, the royal highness scepter fell upon him and he took up the reigns of office  as the Clan Head of Avianwu Clan, as the Ogieavianwu of Avianwu. He was gazette into the throne and office as the Ogieavianwu of Avianwu on the 19th of June 1986 by the Edo Sate Government. He occupied the position of the Ogieavianwu of Avianwu, until he was graciously called to join his ancestors on the 27th of February 2010. NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS                                             TRADITIONAL INSTITUTION REFORMS In the existence of Avianwu clan, he is the first Royal Highness to parade four full-fledged subordinate clan heads in attendance at deliberations on issues affecting the clan. He created 117 villages that are headed by Ikhaemhos in the dispensation of grassroots justice; and three autonomous villages that were formed into a Ruling House known as Ebadi Ruling House. He fought for the expansion of Avianwu into more viable villages and clans to be headed by subordinate clan heads. During his reign, he endorsed and influenced the creation of Etsako Central Local Government Council with the headquarters at Fugar in Avianwu kingdom in Edo State. EDUCATION REFORMS His reign witnessed giant strides in the educational sector, as many new secondary schools were founded. The former St. John’s Grammar School Fugar was upgraded to the status of a Model Unity School. A Skills Acquisition centre was established and completed at Fugar. The extension of the Federal Government UBE schools scheme to Avhianwu. The establishment of Ogbona Grammar school, Ogbona. HEALTH REFORMS The university of Benin Teaching hospital comprehensive health centre was established at Ogbona. The general hospital located at Fugar and many other primary health care centres were established to take care of the health of his subjects. He assisted with the full immunization of his people by imposing penalties on anyone seeking to prevent the success of the exercise within his domain. SECURITY REFORMS He was the first Ogieavianwu to organize a general congress on ways to avert security threat in his area with all the security agencies in attendance. During his reign, he imposed harsh penalties on those embarking on riots, family feuds, possession and use of dangerous weapons, provocation and assaults of any kind. He stopped the dusk to dawn night parties and night ceremonies that had become avenues for criminal activities and constituted a threat to security in the community. SOCIAL REFORMS                                                He supported the organization of various progressive unions, home and abroad; geared towards the development of the

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The History of Catholic Church and Primary School in Ogbona

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THE HISTORY OF CATHOLIC CHURCH AND PRIMARY SCHOOL IN OGBONA BY DEACON JOHN ODIOR ANAWEOKHAI. The history of Primary Education in Ogbona is interwoven with that of the Catholic Church, in fact, differentiating between both of them is like separating garri from cassava. Until 1927, there was neither church nor school in Ogbona. Nonetheless, western missionaries did come to Ogbona occasionally for evangelical and administrative purposes. The guest house between the Asekhauno and the Odogbo families housed such itinerant preachers and District Officers. There were three men that threw everything at their disposal to ensure Ogbona had a church and a school. Eramha Esi Balogun was an itinerant trader that travelled to the major cities of Onitsha, Ibadan, Ilorin and other places for his business. He discovered to his chagrin that he was always unnecessarily delayed by the sales clerks. Often times he would be left unattended to simply because he was not educated. Eramha Eshiemomoh Cletus Anaweokhai was working with the catholic mission in Lokoja where he could not do much because of his lack of formal education. Eramha Robert Odogbo read up to Standard four in Fugar and was working with the Council in Auchi. Though he could barely read and write, it was not enough to get him far. The few educated ones then had to trek to Fugar. My uncle, Pa James Anaweokhai, 1904 to 1987, did his Standard Six in Fugar in 1918. Going to Fugar was not easy for him at all as he rightly told us. There were only two government schools. The one in Auchi and that of Fugar. The problem of education became a general concern to everybody. From the various discussion held, it was clear to everyone that it would be much easier to get a school from the missionaries than the government. Getting a school from the mission means there must be a formal place of worship in Ogbona. Straightway, Eramha Cletus Anaweokhai and Eramha Robert Odogbo were sent to Agenebode and Ivhiukwe where there were Catholic Church and Catholic schools. Until their third mission they couldn’t secure appointment with the mission. On arrival at Ogbona, the missionaries were overwhelmed by the hospitality of Ogbona. People came out amass to welcome them. Some came with tubers of yam, fowl, goats, garri. Others came with eggs etc. Instantly, the guest house which had undergone renovation was converted to church and primary school and Eramha Robert Odogbo was made the Catechist and Head Christian from 1927 to 1948. Eramha Cletus was the second Catechist from 1948 to 1976. Eramha Richard Asekomhe was another pioneer member too. They all wedded their wives in the Catholic Church in the 1930s.   CHALLENGES FACED BY THE EARLY CHURCH IN OGBONA On the 15th of November, 1932, the first Christian marriage ever took place in Ogbona between Mr. Nicholas Apemheyie Asekomhe and Mrs. Regina Egbekhoze Asekomhe (9née Odior). It signposted the foothold of Christianity in Ogbona after teething and turbulent five years of intimidation, acrimony, ostracism and blackmail. Among the pioneering faithful members, apart from Eramha Robert Odogbo, Cletus Eshiemhomoh Anaweokhai, Esi Martins Balogun, Richard Asekomhe and Nicholas Apemheyie Asekomhe, others were George Okomilo, David Agbiko Enamino, Thomas Eragbhe, Michael Idode Irumire, Dominic Emoabino, Bernard Ozibe Ogbualo and Matthias Ekiegbemhe Atsegwasi among others. If the likes of Eramha Esi, Odogbo and Anaweokhai expected grand reception of Christianity and western education among Ogbona people, it was a dream taken too far. They were met with stiff resistance. The Locals saw the new religion as a knife wedged in the heart of the things that held their culture together. Scriptural teachings against heathen practices like sacrifices to idols, Okhei rites etc. soon brought the church head on collusion with the traditionalists. The school was seen as an extension of that alien culture where children were subjected to such inhuman treatment as caning and as such most parents refused to send their wards to school. Matters were not helped by the lack of able men to steer the affairs of the new religion. Until 1929, Eramha Robert Odogbo, the pioneer head Christian and catechist was still based in Auchi. All the clergymen were based in Ivianokpodi, Agenebode. Either Eramha Nicholas Asekomhe or Eramha Cletus Anaweokhai would go to Ivianokpodi to get the previous Sunday sermon for Sunday service. The early Christians in Ogbona suffered a lot of humiliation and persecution among their kinsmen. Songs were composed to make jest of them. The most popular being the well known ENE SI BO NE REKHA NE YUKA. Illiterate people who prided themselves as Christians. Matters came to head in 1931 when Eramha Agbiko Enamino had an issue with one of the unbelievers. The battle line was drawn between the Christians and the traditionalists. Eramha Enamino was served a writ of summon by the customary court bailiff from Fugar. The Christian faithful decided to break with tradition, perhaps, guided by their Christian faith against bribery and corruption by denying the bailiff his usual entitlements of four pence, a fowl and tubers of yam. When the bailiff insisted with overt threats on getting his entitlement, he was manhandled. This was a sacrilegious act which the Auchi based British District Officer did not find funny. He personally came to Fugar to preside over the Case. All the seven culprits including, Eramha David Agbiko Enamino, George Okomilo, Robert Odogbo, Cletus Anaweokhai, Nicholas Asekomhe Martins Esi and Richard Asekomhe were found culpable and were summarily given fourteen strokes of cane each with two month of imprisonment which were served at Auchi prison.   POWER PLAY, INTRIGUES, MIRACLE & BACKSLIDE IN     THE EARLY CHURCH   IN OGBONA. The arrest, trial and imprisonment of the pioneer parishioners of the young catholic in Ogbona was the height of the British colonialist iron fist rule in Ogbona and Nigeria in general. At the dawn of the 20th century, British stronghold on Nigeria was palpable in all spheres of life. The great Benin Massacre at the turn of the 19th

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Ogbona Rulers of the Twentieth Century from 1892 to 2017

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OGBONA RULERS OF THE TWENTIETH CENTURY FROM 1892 TO 2017 S/N OKPHE UKPI KINDRED DATES 1 Aikpabeghie (OKPHE UKPI) Ivhioverai 1892 – 1904 2 Anyai (OKPHE UKPI) Handed over to Ototo when he was imprisoned for his role during the Dogbonoba war Ivhiorevho 1904 – 1908 3 Ototo (OKPHE UKPI) Ivhitse 1908 – 1914 4 Enakhumhe (Warrant Chief) Appointed by the British Administration Ivhiobore 1914 – 1917 5 Ikhumhetse (Warrant Chief) son of Enakhumhe Ivhiobore 1917 – 1918 6 Okozi (Warrant Chief) Removed on restoration of Ukpi holding system in 1931 Ivhiulaghua 1920 – 1931 7 Aleghe (OKPHE UKPI) appointed at the restoration of Ukpi holding Ivhioroke 1931 – 1938 8 Atsegwasi (OKPHE UKPI) ruled for 3 months Ivhiosano 1941 – 1941 9 Okozi (OKPHE UKPI) same Okozi that Warrant Chief of Ogbona 1920-1931 Ivhiulaghua 1942 – 1954 10 Patrick Ajayi Oboarekpe (A primary school Teacher) became the OKPHE UKPI of Ogbona and vacated the Ukpi holding on becoming the Ogieavhianwu of Avhianwu in 1986 Ivhitse 1955 – 1994 11 Chief Thomas Ajayie Osigbemhe (JP) a retired civil servant-Permanent Secretary (8/10/1994 – 2008) Ivhiozima 8/10/1994 – 2008 Chief William Idode, Okphe Ukpi of Ogbona (Politician and Community Leader) Ivhiobore 2008 – DATE NEXT ORDER OF ROTATION ACCORDING TO KINDRED AS AT APRIL 2017 12 Akpabeghie Egboise Title  Chief Bernard Ikhanoba 13 Ivhiorevho Ogboikpise Title  Chief Patrick K. Ikhane 14 Ivhioroke Utokho Ukpi Na evho Title  Chief Stephen Apakhade 15 Ivhido Utokho Ukpi Na ape Title  Chief Jacob Utu Orbih

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Palace of Okphe-Ukpi of Ogbona Approved Villages (3rd Edition)

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OGBONA RULERS OF THE TWENTIETH CENTURY FROM 1892 TO 2017 S/N OKPHE UKPI KINDRED DATES 1 Aikpabeghie (OKPHE UKPI) Ivhioverai 1892 – 1904 2 Anyai (OKPHE UKPI) Handed over to Ototo when he was imprisoned for his role during the Dogbonoba war Ivhiorevho 1904 – 1908 3 Ototo (OKPHE UKPI) Ivhitse 1908 – 1914 4 Enakhumhe (Warrant Chief) Appointed by the British Administration Ivhiobore 1914 – 1917 5 Ikhumhetse (Warrant Chief) son of Enakhumhe Ivhiobore 1917 – 1918 6 Okozi (Warrant Chief) Removed on restoration of Ukpi holding system in 1931 Ivhiulaghua 1920 – 1931 7 Aleghe (OKPHE UKPI) appointed at the restoration of Ukpi holding Ivhioroke 1931 – 1938 8 Atsegwasi (OKPHE UKPI) ruled for 3 months Ivhiosano 1941 – 1941 9 Okozi (OKPHE UKPI) same Okozi that Warrant Chief of Ogbona 1920-1931 Ivhiulaghua 1942 – 1954 10 Patrick Ajayi Oboarekpe (A primary school Teacher) became the OKPHE UKPI of Ogbona and vacated the Ukpi holding on becoming the Ogieavhianwu of Avhianwu in 1986 Ivhitse 1955 – 1994 11 Chief Thomas Ajayie Osigbemhe (JP) a retired civil servant-Permanent Secretary (8/10/1994 – 2008) Ivhiozima 8/10/1994 – 2008 Chief William Idode, Okphe Ukpi of Ogbona (Politician and Community Leader) Ivhiobore 2008 – DATE NEXT ORDER OF ROTATION ACCORDING TO KINDRED AS AT APRIL 2017 12 Akpabeghie Egboise Title  Chief Bernard Ikhanoba 13 Ivhiorevho Ogboikpise Title  Chief Patrick K. Ikhane 14 Ivhioroke Utokho Ukpi Na evho Title  Chief Stephen Apakhade 15 Ivhido Utokho Ukpi Na ape Title  Chief Jacob Utu Orbih   OGBONA SUB-CLAN, VILLAGES AND VILLAGE HEADS AS AT 1st MAY, 2017 Akpagi Ivhiosano Chief Joseph Obeakemhe 3/7/2017 Ivhido Chief Jacob Orbih 3/25/2017 Ivhianaga Chief Bernard Ikhanoba 4/5/2017 Ivhioroke Chief Stephen Aloye Apakhade 8/4/2017 S/N OLD VILLAGES NEW VILLAGES NEW QUARTERS VILLAGE/QTRS HEADS INSTALLATION CONTACT NUMBER 1 Ivhiochie Ivhiobore Agiamhesor Chief Joseph Edogamhe 3-Jun-1986 08122953515, 07064937608 Atogwe Chief Lawrence Iyevhobu 6-Dec-2015 07038558508, ‘08059097487 Emhoepo Chief George Kadiri 2-Mar-2007 08052052203, 07030412997 Oghie Chief Azelake Akabeli 3-May-2010 09050157637, 07032967406 Imela Chief Sunday Oga 26-Jun-2007 07067047766 Ivhiosano Agba Chief Richard Otse 14-Mar-2007 08033327911 Ikhinaede Chief Joseph Obeakemhe 14-Feb-2007 08162393809 Okhakia Chief Vital Anaweokhai 9-Apr-1992 07031967458 Osimua Chief Mathias Akpaibor 19-Jun-2013 08033921962 Ivhitse Akpheokhai Chief Okpobisa Omiawa 10-Sep-1993 07066960311 Enamino Chief Noel Imhoedemhe 4-Jul-2007 08165496223 Innih Chief John Ogedegbe 17-Aug-2013 ,07038879021 Ototo Chief Moses Obadele Ogboalo 15-Sep-1985 S/N OLD VILLAGES NEW VILLAGES NEW QUARTERS VILLAGE/QTRS HEADS INSTALLATION CONTACT NUMBER 2 Ivhido Ivhiobere (Ivhiatso) Anyiora Chief Bernard Damaza 15-Aug-2015 07067443849 Ateghie Chief David Omoghie 08077336677 Anwukpe Chief Jacob Orbih 29-Jul-2006 07038228960 Imhomoh Chief Francis Umago 2-Mar-2007 08067638226 3 Ivhiorevho Ivhiorevho Anyia Chief Francis Irene 07069006832 Ikhane Chief Patrick Ikhane 10-Mar-2003 07035399945 Okhatie Chief Lawrence Ikhiagwa 14-Jun-2007 07069073442 4 Okotor Ivhioroke Aleghe Chief Cyril Okhakumhe 14-Feb-2007 08063445975 Imhonighie Chief Thomas Agbepue 12-Jan-2011 08069403446 Oyemheuno Chief Stephen Apakhade 28-Dec-2009 09036181081 Ivhianaga (Ivhioverai & Ivhiulaghua) Akpabeghie Chief Bernard Ikhanoba 22-Mar-2007 07039279261 Erhagbhe Chief Vincent Otsoi 12-Sep-2014 07068372908 Apekhore Chief Matthias Esue 25-May-2004 08137463687 Okozi Chief Joseph Okozi 14-Jun-2007 Ukhami Chief Daniel Oshiotse 9-Nov-2000 08066319594 Ivhiozima Irume Chief John Ikeku 1-Nov-1994 08073237730 Umogba Chief Matthias B. Isede 26-Mar-2007 07067626664 Uzobonwu Chief Musa Anetekhai 10-Sep-1993 07038436147   PALACE OF OKPHE-UKPI OF OGBONA APPROVED VILLAGES (3RD EDITION) S/N OTADI VILLAGES VILLAGE HEAD 1 PA. JACOB ATEGHE OTOTO CHIEF MOSES OGBOALO 2 PA. MATHIAS OSHAWO AGBAI CHIEF RICHARD OTSE 3 PA. IMOAGENE APEBU ANYIA CHIEF FRANCIS IRENE 4 PA. JULIUS IGBADUMHE ATEGIE CHIEF DAVID OMOGHIE 5 PA. PIUS OKOZI OKOZI CHIEF JOSEPH OKOZI 6 PA. OSHIOKE AGBEPUE IMHONIGHIE CHIEF THOMAS AGBEPUE 7 PA. JOSEPH AMIEKHAMHE ANWUKPE CHIEF JACOB ORBIH 8 PA. ERUA ALUOGHOR OGIHE CHIEF AZELAKE AKABELI 9 PA. PAUL IKHUMHI ERAGBHE CHIEF VINCENT OTSOI 10 PA. ALASA OSIGBEMHE UZOBONWU CHIEF MUSA ANETEKHAI 11 PA. ANTHONY AIGBA AGIAMHESOR CHIEF JOSEPH EDOGAMHE 12 PA. EMITSE ILEGA AIKPABEGHIE CHIEF BERNARD IKHANOBA 13 PA. IKIELU OMIAWA AKPHIOKHAI CHIEF OKPOBISA OMIAWA 14 PA. UNOADE AKO ALEGHE CHIEF CYPRIL OKHAKUMHE 15 PA. PAUL S. ELETA ANYORIA CHIEF BERNARD DAMAZA 16 PA. ANTHONY OGHENA APEKHORE CHIEF MATTHIAS ESUE 17 PA. INNOCENT ITSUOKOR ATOGWE CHIEF LAWRENCE IYEVHOBU 18 PA. MOMOH OMAKHIA EMHOEPO CHIEF GEORGE I. KADIRI 19 PA. CHRISTOPHER EKHASEMOMHE ENAMINO CHIEF NOEL IMHODEMHE 20 PA. JOHN IKHANE IKHANE CHIEF PATRICK IKHANE 21 PA. OSIMEGA OGAH IMELA CHIEF SUNDAY OGAH 22 PA. BENSON KASIMI IMHOMOH CHIEF FRANCIS UMAGOR 23 PA. SALAMI OPIKHARA IKIHINAEDE CHIEF JOSEPH OBEAKEMHE 24 PA. SIMEON OKOMILO INNIH CHIEF  JOHN OGEDEGBE 25 PA. RUFUS BELLO IRUME CHIEF JOHN IKEKU 26 PA. MUSA ITAKU OKHAKIA CHIEF VITAL ANAVHEOKHAI 27 PA. ANDREW OKHAMERA OKHATIE CHIEF LAWRENCE IKHIAGWA 28 PA. MICHAEL KANO ABU OSIMUA CHIEF MATTHIAS AKPAIBOR 29 PA. KAYODE OKHOTOR OYEMHEUNO CHIEF STEPHEN APAKHADE 30 PA.  JOSPEH OSHITSE UKHAMI CHIEF DANIEL OSHIOTSE 31 PA. MATTHIAS ISEDE UMOGBA CHIEF MATTHIAS ISEDE 32 NON-INDIGINS REPRESENTATIVE CHIEF ABDULLAHI ESHEIEMOGHE 33 NON-INDIGINS REPRESENTATIVE CHIEF YAYA YUSUF   H.H. CHIEF WILLY IDODE                                            CHIEF GEORGE KADIRI THE OKPHE-UKPI OF OGBONA                                   SECRETARY, OKPHE-UKPI-IN COUNCIL AND SUB-CLAN HEAD OF AVHIANWU Profile of Chief William Idode, Okphe Ukpi of Ogbona Williams Uloko Idode was born 4th April 1959 to Mr. Momodu Ojakpai idode and Mrs. Lametu Amiunomhene Idogho both of Ivhiobore quarters Ogbona. He left home very early to live with his uncle Dr.  J. B. Idode in Benin City in 1970. He completed his primary education in Benin City at Arinze Primary School in 1972. Attended Western Boys High School Benin City 1972 -1977. Willie then left for Kaduna to start life on his own where he gained employment with Nigeria Defense Industry. He returned home to take up an appointment as teacher in 1979 due to pressure from his parents. The struggles continued for some time to go back to school and meet with financial and family challenges. He has to stay close to his father when the father became very sick because others were not around home. The father died in 1986. His death free him to go into business both local and international business (buying and selling), contract jobs, mining of solid mineral and later, petroleum products business. In 1996 he went

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Town Planning and Works Committee Ogbona Advisory Committee

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Town Planning and Works Committee Ogbona Advisory Committee First Committee Meeting June 05, 2010 The Chairman’s Residence, Omole Phase 1 Estate, Lagos Minutes of Meeting  Attendance Register:   S/N Name Email address Contact Numbers 1 Gilbert Odior geodior@yahoo.com 08022903457 2 Paulinus Ifaorumhe eraga_54@yahoo.com 08077757781 3 Pascal Osigbemhe Ascalos_54@yahoo.com 07035848784 4 Thomas Ikhaghu tikhaghu@yahoo.com 08066630028 5 Peter Odior petrodion@yahoo.com 07068831077   Date: June 05, 2010 Place: The chairman’s Residence Omole Phase 1, Lagos Minutes of meeting Introductions and Meeting Objectives The meeting started at 1:20pm with an opening prayer by Thomas Ikhaghu. The chairman presented a welcome address outlining the different areas he believes the committee has been asked to address.  He explained the task ahead the committee and implores the members to work towards realizing the objectives set out by the Advisory Council on behalf of the Ukpe-Ukpi and the community. A copy of his address is attached. Terms of reference and agenda from the chairman’s address were; Town Planning includes: Layout Street naming Boundaries with neighboring communities. Works includes: Infrastructure Installation of Transformer Another Transformer from Jacob Orbih Relocation of the market Electricity Communication Market structures. Haphazard Development Extension Land Lock Lack of Planning Scattered development Land fragmentation. Among the issues discussed were: Town Planning New Roads and Layout The chairman briefed on the observed haphazrd development of the new areas in the Ogbona Community without provision for access roads, electricity network etc. Thomas Ikhaghu was requested to prepare a sketch of all the existing road network and possible new roads in the community.  Also, the need for a proper layout of the developing areas was discussed with a proposed road every 200m to link existing roads.  The Town Planning and Works Committee will look at the road network sketch in their next meeting and workout modality to create the new road network. Peter Odior reported that the road linking from Iraokhor road to Atsegwasi’s house has been awarded to be tarred by the Local Government. He was however, asked to speak to the Council Chairman over the road leading from Atsegwasi’s house to the Auchi-Agenebode road (Old road) and also to speak with Ukpe-Ukpi on how to get a bulldozer to open the new roads. Street Naming A proper street naming was discussed and was generally agreed to develop a geneology of the village through history, meet with the elders and Ukpe-Ukpi to trace the history and its prominent citizens. The major streets will be named to reflect our history. Also the smaller street can be named after individual who will pay a stipulated amount to the community apart from the Local Government fee. Bounderies with other Communities. After a brief discussion on the issues and challenges sorrounding our boundaries with our neighbouring communities, it was recommended that a new committee should be set up to work in hands with the Judiciary committee. Works   Ogbona Market. The Committee was briefed on the proposed location for the new Community market along the Auchi-Agenebode road. Thomas Ikhaghu and Peter Odior were asked to visit the proposed site for the new market. Their report should include the size of market, existing structures or houses that will be affected now and in future expansion. Also propose how to relocate them and possible areas of relocation. Thomas Ikhaghu and Peter Odior were also requested look at the parcel of land between the Comprehensive Health Centre road and Ogbona Community Grammar School. However, some disadvantages of this location were identified: too close to the Grammar school, not far from Iraokhor Market and too far from Okotor quarters. The New Transformers There is a new transformer donated by Government to the community. Mr. Peter Odior was asked to see the Local Govt. for the installation of the transformer. It should be installed in the southern part of Ogbona where there are lots of development and low voltage anytime there is light.   The transformer installed near the Orbih’s compound is currently not been used due issues sorrounding the installation. Paulinus was asked to discuss the Transformer issue with Dan Orbih and the contractor Jacob Orbih. This additional transformer will help to provide power in the new growing areas. Communication The current MTN network at Ogbona is found to be inadequate and there is need for other networks like Glo, Zain, Visa etc. The Committee would approach people that talkk with these networks to bring their present to Ogbona. Mr. Pascal Osigbemhe agreed to visit Glo Zonal office in Benin as soon as possible. Infrastructure The need to complete existing town hall was expressed and details on way forward for this project will be discussed in a future Advisory Council meetings and recommendation made to the Ukpe-Ukpi. In re-planning the community, there is need to reserve land for community cemetery, parks, playground, motor parks etc. It was also observed that the community does not have its own land but a system has to be put in place to acquire land for common use. There are 2 water boreholes in Ogbona, one at Ivhido Quarters and the other on Imiava road. The 2 boreholes are not currently connected to the Public power supply. The transformer from the Local Government for the Imiava road borehole was taken away by the Chairman and is yet to be replaced with an appropriate one. The one located by Dan Orbih in Ivhido currently operate on Diesel generator only and fueling is an issue.  A new borehole needs to be sunk in another location to serve the new development and piping of the Imiava road borehole to distribute water to the town should be done in stages. Next meeting will take place at Ogbona before the next Advisory Council meeting scheduled for August 28, 2010. Closing Remarks The Chairman thanked members for attendance and participation in the meeting. He enjoins the members to work in their various ways for the general interest of the Ogbona community and work towards having some results by the next meeting.ent some light entertainment. Closing

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Ogbona Advisory Committee First Committee Meeting

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Ogbona Advisory Committee First Committee Meeting May 01, 2010 The Chairman’s Residence, Ogbona, Edo State Minutes of Meeting  Attendance Register:   S/N Name Email address Contact Numbers 1 Mathias Akpaibor  mathiasakpaibor@yahoo.com 08033721963 2 Ralph. Edogamhe  Raph2010@yahoo.com 07038339000 3 Linus Dunia  chrisdunia@yahoo.com 08033269606 4 Ralph Asekomhe 08056267095 5 Emmanuel Anabor  emmanuelanabor@yahoo.com 08033042506 6 Celina Ateghie  ChiefCelinaateghie@yahoo.com 08056734997 7 Joseph Izuagie  Izuagie@yahoo.com, Jobisco 57@yahoo.com 07035039808 8 Stephen Aigbepue  steveaigbe09@yahoo.co.uk 08035435637 9 Gilbert Odior geodior@yahoo.com 08022903457 10 Paulinus Ifaorumhe eraga_54@yahoo.com 08077757781 11 Joseph Musa lebitus@yahoo.com 08058850058 07030204090 12 Thomas Ikhaghu tikhaghu@yahoo.com 08066630028   Date:                            May 01, 2010 at 10:00 A.M Location:                      The Chairman’s Residence, Ogbona, Edo State   Introductions and Meeting Objectives The meeting started at 11:00 am with an opening prayer by Joseph Musa. This was followed by introduction of participants. Inaugural Committee Meeting Minutes The April 10, 2010 Ogbona Advisory Committee Inauguration meeting minutes were reviewed with some amendments. The motion for adoption of the minutes was moved by Ralph Asekomhe and supported by Paulinus Ifaorumhe. The chairman presented a welcome address and re-iterating the task ahead the committee and implores the members towards realising the objectives set out by the Ukpe-Ukpi and the community. A copy of his address is attached. Terms of reference from the Ukpe-Ukpi were; Organization Generation of positive ideas for the development of our community. Act as think-tank responsible for the development of the community Mobilization of necessary human and material resources. Maintenance of peace and security in our community. Implement approved projects. There was no set agenda for the meeting and discussions were not focused, however, it was generally agreed that we should organize the committee along structured line and also work on our attendance at meetings. The following officers were appointed to run the council.   Matthias Akpaibor         Chairman (appointed by the Ukpe-Ukpi) Raphael Edogamhe       Vice chairman Thomas Ikhaghu            Secretary Chief Celina Ateghie      Assistant secretary   The committee reviewed the Ukpe-Ukpi Inaugural address and terms of reference and broke them down to the following areas: Security Education Town planning/works Health Agriculture Revenue/Markets Cultural Revival/Socialization Judicial committee. The committee decided to organize its work in smaller committees along the above listed areas. Broad terms of each committee were defined and each committee was encouraged to come up with a comprehensive definition of the terms and coverage for its work. Attempts were made to include everyone of the 23 members of the council in one or 2 committees based on the perceived knowledge of the individual and field.   s/n Committee Term Members 1 Security Internal & external Linus Dunia (Chairman) Jet Oshiomogho Theresa Abu 2 Education Formal & Informal education including Moral education etc Dr. Steve Aigbepue (Chairman) Barr Joseph Musa Chief Mrs. C. Eleta   3         Town Planning /works Town planning including Layout, street naming, Land Acquisition, and boundaries with neighbouring communities etc   Works including infrastructure, electricity, communication and market structures Paulinus Ifaorumhe (Chairman) Thomas Ikhaghu Gilbert Odior Peter Odior Felix Osimhera Pascal Osigbemhe   4 Health Child and maternal Health, diseases and prevention, Lecture on health issues e.g. Aids and HIV and other transmittable diseases. Manpower for the community Health Center   Ralph Edogamhe (Chairman) Dr. Felix Orbih Joseph Izuagie Philip Ogedegbe 5 Agriculture Improved varieties of seedlings (cassava, groundnuts etc) Food processing and access to markets. Improved land usage through use of fertilizer and effects of Bush Burning. Cooperative Society and mechanize farming Gilbert Odior (Chairman) Matthias Akpaibor Cecilia Eleta 6 Revenue/Market Access to Markets Banking facilities Foreign investors ( Unicef, World Bank, Unido etc projects/programs Tourism development. Mineral Resources and community rights Emma Anabor (Chairman) Bernard Oboarekpe Felix Osimhera David Joseph Ikhiagwa 7 Cultural Revival/ Socialization Informal education Lecture séries – carrer etc. Cultural modernization (okhe title, age group initiation etc) Attendance at Federation, community & family meetings most especially by youth Ralph Asekomhe (Chairman) Peter Aigba Theresa Abu Paulinus Ifaorumhe 8 Judicial committee Examine pending land cases Action items from the last land cases. Protection of community land Relationship with neighbouring communities Barr Felix Osimhera (Chairman) Barr Joseph Musa Mathias Akpaibor Tom Ikhaghu   Members were advised to co-opt knowledgeable and subject matter experts of Ogbona sons and daughters into their various committees. Each committee is expected to come up with a written documentation of their committee work in the next meeting.     Meeting Schedule The next committee meetings are scheduled for 28 August and 01 October, 2010 at Chief Akpaibor’s Residence, Ogbona. Any Other Business (AOB) It was advised that everybody should have an E-mail for easy dissemination of minutes and notice of meetings. To help run the secretariat the following items were promised by the following: Emmanuel Anabor – desktop computer, Paulinus Ifaorumhe – printer and Gilbert Odior – Stationeries. The house thanked and prayed for them.   The remaining letters of appointment and the Ukpe-Ukpi address to be collected by the chairman and send to members who were not in attendance at the inaugural meeting. The chairman was advised to be in touch with all the members and to encourage attendance at meeting. Also an agenda should be generated to guide the meeting. Pascal Osigbemhe called to apologize for his coming late to the meeting; however, he never made it to the meeting before closing. Other apologies were received from Dr. Felix Orbih and Jacob Oshiomogho for their absence The Ukpe-Ukpi, Chief William Idode came to the meeting venue to thank members for accepting to serve and coming to the meeting. Closing Remarks The Chairman thanked members for attendance and participation in the meeting. He enjoins the members to work in their various committees for the general interest of the Ogbona community. He called Paulinus Ifaorumhe to lead the prayers for our journey mercies and Peter Dunia quick recovery from his accident. He also offered those present some light entertainment. Motion for adjournment was moved by Joseph Musa and supported by Celina Ateghie. Closing prayer was said by Joseph Musa and meeting end at about 1.40 pm     —————–  

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2016 Annual New Year Resolution/Directives

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2016 ANNUAL NEW YEAR RESOLUTION/DIRECTIVES In keeping with the tradition of Avhianwu the relevant authority has announced that the date for the commencement of the New Year (Aduikukwa) for 2016 New Year celebration will hold on 11th March, 2016.  Since Ogbona is an independent part of Avhianwu who will be part of the event; Chiefs, Elders, Itadis and other opinion leaders met at the Palace of Okphe-Ukpi of Ogbona on 12th February, 2016 to review some existing customs and traditional rites of the people in conformity with the present day reality. The following decisions were taken at the meeting which was presided over by His Royal Highness Chief Willy Idode and moderated by Pa. Jacob Egbu Ateghie, the Senior Adi holder in Ogbona. Installation of Adi for the Kindred: 10 existing senior Adi ad 21 new ones were approved in line with the present 31 villages’ structure in Ogbona.  The 21 new ones shall come below the first 10. Matters affecting Adi administration shall be jointly decided by the 31 Adi holders. Burial Ceremony of Adi Holder: In case of demise of an Adi holder, his funeral should take place within three months.  The next in rank shall take over and install Adi for his kindred. Burial fees: Burial fees shall be as follows: VILLAGE LEVEL QUARTER LEVEL Husband & Wife N2,800 Husband & Wife N740 Single N1,400 Single N370   The money shall be disbursed as stated below:   TOWN LEVEL AMOUNT Eldest Otadi N200 Okphe-Ukpi of Ogbona N200 9 Other Senior Itadi N100 each       21 Other Itadi N70 each VILLAGE LEVEL AMOUNT Senior man in Village N100 Okhaemho N100 2 next senior men in the village N70 each 6 next senior in the village N50 each   The fees must be collected enblock at the point of announcing the date of burial rites in the house of senior man of the village Chief or his representative and others appointed to collect the levies for the elders.   Burial ceremony is prohibited on EVIA DAY.  Anybody who contravene this order shall pay N50, 000 and a mother-goat.   ACCIDENTAL DEATH: The land will be appeased through the Chief Priests of Ebo.  Items needed for the exercise shall be follows: a).        N5,000; (b) Mother Sheep; (c) One bottle of red oil;  (d) One bottle of palm kernel oil (Udemi); (e) snail  (f) Alligator pepper  (h) One jerry can of palm wine.   MANHOOD/WOMANHOOD INITIATION Adolescents’ man/woman of 17 years and above shall be eligible to be initiated into manhood/womanhood ceremonies. This is to enable the celebrant appreciate the beauty and glamour of our custom.  Initiation fees shall be as follows: A. IZOEGBE (ENROLMENT) N2,000 B. IKWUIKUMI 200 C. UKPADEMI (FOOD) N1,000 D. CERTIFICATE N1,000 TOTAL N4,200   INHERITANCE (UKU) It is not the wish of parents (man and woman) to have same sex of children.  It is the Lord’s wish which nobody can alter. Female children can now inherit their father’s property.  Also daughters married to outsiders can also inherit their mother’s property.  The female child will now appoint an Administrator to look after the properties.  Where possible parents are encouraged to write Will or gather their children together and share their properties to them before their demise. INTERNAL MARRIAGE REQUIREMENTS: A separate paper which contains internal marriage requirement in Ogbona has been approved.   ADULTERY (OFIH) Couple should love themselves and do desist from any act that may endanger their lives and that of their children.  However punishment will be on the head of the woman who commits adultery. The above decisions take effect from 11th March. 2016.   H.H. Chief Willy Idode,                    Chief George Kadiri The Okphe-Ukpi of Ogbona and    Secretary, Okphe-Ukpi in Council Sub-Clan Head of Avhianwu       Chief Pa Jacob Egbu Ateghie, The Eldest man-in-Ogbona REVISED CUSTOMARY MARRIAGE REQUIREMENTS The marriage is between Anwu Sons/Daughters and it is therefore applicable in Avhianwu Federation, especially in Ogbona. FOR THE FATHER-IN-LAW Anyio epe-one carton of beer and one hot drink (first day of introduction) Five Jerry cans of Palm Wine Five Cartons of Beer-Two cartons out of the five cartons of bear mention above belong to the brother-in-law (Ivierah), others are for the quarter (Ede). IZISOMHI (Engagement) N500 (Five Hundred Naira) BRIDE PRICE N5,000 (Five Thousand Naira)   FOR THE MOTHER-IN-LAW A).       ISOMHI-IGBIGHU N20, 000 (Twenty Thousand) b).        IKA AND EKO or N10, 000 (Ten Thousand) c).        TWENTY-ONE (21) Tubers of Yams d).        EGWU-EKA (One she goat for the Mother-in-law)   OTHERS REQUIREMENTS a) AKPOGEGE TWO PERSONS FIVE HUNDRED NAIRA EACH  (N1, 000) b) IDI-IBIE (BODY DESIGN)                                                         N1, 000 c) IBETO (PLANTING OF HAIR)                                                  N1, 000 d) IRODE (2 WOMEN ESCORT) N1, 000 e) INWOBOVHARE (Handing over the girl to the bride) N1, 000   COSMETICS FOR THE GIRLS A box of clothes of the girl’s choice 3 Big Saturday Night Powder 8 bottles of pomade (AVIOBO) One Umbrella (AKPAKPA) 2 Up sticks (ALUEUNO)   AKHEIRODE (APPRECIATION FOOD TO THE BRIDE FAMILY) All the cooking should be done according to the custom and tradition.   AMHO-OYA (IPABUA) Bride price is N7,000 (Seven thousand Naira) Any man who impregnate a female and had a without paying the bride price for a period of one year shall pay N50,000; One carton of beer and one Jerry can of palm wine to the community. Thereafter, the man shall negotiate marriage requirements with the Bride’s family to claim the child/children. Any man who denies pregnancy and medical doctor’s report prove otherwise, the man shall pay N65, 000.00 (Sixty-Five Thousand) to the community and thereafter negotiate marriage requirements with the family of the woman. If 9 and 10 above are rejected by the man the child/children belongs to the woman family.   H.H. CHIEF WILLY IDODE                               CHIEF GEORGE KADIRI THE OKPHE-UKPI OF OGBONA                         SECRETARY, OKPHE-UKPI-IN COUNCIL AND SUB-CLAN HEAD OF AVHIANWU   PALACE OF OKPHE-UKPI OF OGBONA APPROVED VILLAGES (3RD EDITION) S/N OTADI VILLAGES VILLAGE

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The Role of Women in the Development of Avhianwu Land by Chief (Mrs.) Veronica Ayi Ilegar (JP) at Avhianwu Day, 6th April 2015

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THE ROLE OF WOMEN IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF AVIANWU LAND BEING AN ADDRESS BY CHIEF (MRS) VERONICA AYIILEGAR (JP) ON THE OCCASION OF AVHIANWU SONS AND DAUGHTERS CONFERENCE, 6th APRIL 2015 Key points Biblical mention of women and their role from the history of creation and the women in Israel World renowned women Nigerian women activists Formation of NCWS – pioneers of women leadership roles Their place today – ministers, governance, business, entrepreneurship Policies on women and status – Ed, (violence) law and justice, agriculture, women and poverty, economic activities, development projects etc. Women in Avianwu land – hindrances Partnering with women if they must succeed in their roles – consultative approach, thematic areas, programme areas, women and girls in Avianwu community development projects, infrastructural projects, health, micro-credit facilities, Education and training, agriculture, research etc. Conclusion Expectation of number of cultural changes, hall of fame, cultural revival, change of attitude of men towards women, inheritance – wife, property, etc., data bank of our women achievers, inclusion of women in council of chiefs as source of dissemination of information etc.   THE ROLE OF WOMEN IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF AVHIANWU LAND BEING AN ADDRESS BY CHIEF (MRS) VERONICA AYIILEGAR (JP) ON THE OCCASION OF AVHIANWU SONS AND DAUGHTERS CONFERENCE, 6th APRIL 2015 The new America Bible states from Genesis 1-2 the importance of a woman when God created the first Father on earth – Adam and from him, our mother. Eve as a help mate. Similarly, we read from the same bible, the roles played by the women like Deborah, Esther, Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Christ. They played their roles as military leaders, consolers, religious leaders, peace makers, political and social roles to assist in the development of their various communities in Israel. The history of some international women activists and leaders cannot be left out such as Mrs. Indira Ghandi of India, Mrs. Margaret Thatcher of United Kingdom, Mrs. Hillary Clinton and others not mentioned here. In Nigerian history, women leaders like Mrs. Fumilayo Ransom kuti of Abeokuta, Madam Tinubu of Lagos State, Queen Amina of Zaria, and Mrs. Margaret Ekpo of Calabar distinguished themselves in the various roles they played in the development of our country, Nigeria. In recent times, women like the late Pharmacist Dora Akunyuli, Lady (Mrs.) Virginia Etieba, Dr. Mrs. Ngozi Iweala, Dr Obby Ezekwesili, Mrs. Deziani Allison Madueke etc. have displayed before the world that “sex has no brain”. According to Mrs. Adetokunbo Ademola, the first leader of the National Council of Women Societies (NCWS), Nigeria, she remarked that “What a man can do, a woman can also do it”. This body, NCWS, Nigeria, is the most powerful Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) which linked all the regions then, with the aim of bridging the gap between women, irrespective of creed, tribe and class. It is a voice for the women and a platform for dissemination of information on women opinions and a liaison between the women and government. The subsequent leadership ran thus Lady Mrs. Adetokunbo Ademola 1958-64 Dr Mrs. Abimbola Awoniyi 1964-71 Mrs. Kofo Pratt-1971-76 Mrs. R.Doherty-1976-80 Mrs. C.I.Nzeako-1980-84 Mrs. Helen Adefarasin-1984-86 Chief Mrs. Emily lmokhuede-1986-88 Hajia Laila Dongoyaro-1988-90 Dr Mrs. Elizabeth Nwokeafor-1990-2005   Hajia Usman-2005-2009 Chief Mrs. Nkechi Uba 2009 – date In the then Bendel State, now Edo State, we had women like Chief Mrs. Christy Boyo the first women leader 1958 Mrs. Deaconess Grace Osagie Chief Mrs. Agatha Ehiemua Dr Mrs.: P.E.B Uku Chief Mrs. Marcelina Aisebeogun Chief Mrs. Veronica Ayi llegar JP 2002-2008 and Mrs. Grace Omoluru presently. In our Local Government Chapter, the first president. Chief Mrs. V.A. llegar JP followed by Mrs. Scholastica Imodemhe and presently we have Mrs. Queen Braimah. NCWS has representatives both at the Federal, States and Local Governments levels with the various women groups in affiliation with the body. Each nation like Nigeria is in affiliate of the International Headquarters at the Hague. The wife of the former president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Chief Mrs. Marian Babangida played a major role in the lives of the Nigerian women at both international, national and grassroots levels through her popular project tagged “Better Life for Rural Women”. Today, women ethics in the care for their homes, family lives, dressing codes and businesses have transformed to the glory of all Nigerians. Women formed social groups and committees of women in development. Law. Medicine, Banking, Administration etc. From then, the drive for women in politics, poverty alleviation programmes, and others were embedded in the national policy on women which led to the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Youth Development. Despite these achievements, there are problems facing the women in the full participation at national and grassroots development irrespective of age, class, ethnicity or geographical difference. Prevalent in Nigeria and other cultures, violence can be classified as emotional and psychological abuse. Most women suffer sexual harassment and assault in bride price, domestic violence, rape, widowhood rites, human trafficking, forced prostitution, female genital mutilation, child marriage, denial of quality education, wife battering, wife inheritance, murder, violence from law makers, exclusion from property inheritance, discriminatory employment etc. Avhianwu land is not different from the other communities on the globe, hence, it is necessary to have the knowledge as stated in this piece to know the way forward to women’s roles in our land. The problem of Africa today is that women, the key producers, are bypassed by development. Walter Rodney stated that the development at the Individual level implies increased skills and capacity, greater freedom, creativity, self-discipline, responsible and material wellbeing. At the level of the society, it Implies, cultural advancement, eliminating poverty, violence, illiteracy and hunger. The main objective aims at an improved standard of living through increased income and employment opportunities. Going by this definition, it is evident that despite the several decades of developmental efforts in Nigeria and Africa, no significant benefit has come to the region. The reason is not far-fetched: women who meet the survival needs of

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The Future We Want: Leveraging Avhianwu Culture for Sustainable Social and Economic Development in a Changing World, Chris Osiomha Itsede, PhD, MNIM

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THE FUTURE WE WANT: LEVERAGING AVHIANWU CULTURE FOR SUSTAINABLE SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN A CHANGING WORLD Chris Osiomha Itsede, PhD, MNIM BEING TEXT OF A KEYNOTE ADDRESS DELIVERED AT THE AVHIANWU SUMMIT HELD AT OGBONA ETSAKO CENTRAL LOCAL GOVERNMENT, APRIL 6, 2015 TABLE OF CONTENT Introduction Culture in Traditional Avhianwu Society Exposure to External Cultures Coping with a Changing World an Agenda for Cultural Reforms Conclusion 1 INTRODUCTION The objective of this paper is to examine the nexus between Avhianwu culture and the social and economic development of the society. Over the past decade or so, development indicators and data on the cultural sector have cast into bold relief the evidence that culture can be a powerful driver for sustainable development with community-wide social, economic and environmental ramifications. In Nigeria, the entertainment industry has grown exponentially in recent times that it is now a significant sector in the nation’s new GDP classification structure. At the global level, lessons learned from the United Nations Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) demonstrated concretely the power of culture to respond to such challenging issues as gender, health, education and environment. What is more, the cultural sector has a high capacity for employment creation across the whole spectrum of the skills mix in the economy – absorbing thousands of unskilled, semi-skilled and highly skilled workers in direct and indirect employment. What is Culture? According to Gold bard (2004), culture is the sum total of human ingenuity: language, signs and symbols, systems of beliefs, customs, dance, arts, clothes, foods and cuisine, tools, toys, trinkets, the built environment and everything we use to fill it up. Like most concepts in the social sciences, culture has evaded a universally accepted common definition. Some see it as the sum of the beliefs, knowledge, skills, customs, festivals and ceremonies, fashion, and traditions that are available to the members of a particular society. For the purpose of our discussion today, we define culture as a way of life of a people, that is to say, the behaviors, knowledge, beliefs, values, customs, art, music, symbols that they accept, generally without thinking twice about them and that are transmitted from one generation to the next. In other words, culture is the collective programming of the mind that sets one group or category of people apart from another. Culture is a people’s group identity. Every culture is characterized by eight basic elements: Language; Daily Life, Economy; Religion; History; Arts; Social Groups; and Government. Every culture would include core values and beliefs, such as trust, honesty, integrity, respect for others, individualism, communal orientation, patience, determination and family devotion. Although this is not an academic gathering, I will preface our discussion this morning with a rapid overview of the recent debate on culture whose importance has become so compelling such that the United Nations General Assembly recently passed a special resolution urging members to mainstream culture into their development policies and strategic calculus. The UN further underscored culture’s intrinsic contribution to sustainable development. The Cultural Debate As culture is dynamic and changes, albeit slowly, overtime, so has the notion and its place in the society’s scheme of things evolved over the years. Sociologists, anthropologists, psychologists, and economic development experts all agree that culture has a significant impact on the developmental trajectory of different societies. Adam Smith, arguably the founder of modern economics, argues in his 1776 seminal book, “The Wealth of Nations” that man is essentially motivated by the pursuit of his own interests, and contributes to the public interest in a system that is self-regulating. Smith nonetheless recognized that the “pursuit of personal interests’1 involved much more than just making money. Hence, his later work, “Theory of Moral Sentiments”, deals with what today we would call cultural values. Seventy years later, John Stuart Mill made the same point when he noted that cultural constraints on individuals could have a stronger impact on them than the pursuit of personal pecuniary interest. Max Weber, the German social scientist, writing in the early 20th century, outlined how cultural factors, including religious values, could drive economic output. Weber contended that the Protestant work ethic, spurred by Reformation teachings that the pursuit of wealth was a duty, inculcated the virtues needed for maximum economic productivity. Thus, European Protestants were more productive than Catholics. He drew parallels between Germany and Great Britain, for instance, compared to the Catholic nations of Ireland, Spain, Portugal and Italy. Today, development experts have no illusion about the significant contribution of culture to developmental outcomes. The Importance of Culture What is it that makes some countries to do very well, while others fail to make the mark even when they all have comparable requisite economic factors in place? Why have countries like Nigeria, Indonesia and the Philippines, despite their relatively robust resource endowment and a well-educated population, lagged in development? The theory lists preconditions for economic development: good governance, a stable political system; rule of law backed with effective enforcement to ensure sanctity of contractual agreements; an enabling environment for domestic and foreign investors; an efficient and non-corrupt the public service. Quite a robust list, but it still does not add up. What is the role of culture in the development process? Why do some ethnic groups that are even minorities in other cultures do so well in business that they leave others in the dust? Amy Chua raises this question in her book “World on Fire”. She tells us that ethnic Chinese in the Philippines, accounting for less than two percent of the population, yet they control 60% of the nation’s private economy. This includes the country’s four major airlines and almost all the banks, hotels and shopping malls. Chinese ethnic minorities also dominate business in other Southeast Asian countries, especially Indonesia, Thailand, Burma and Malaysia. Chua observes that all over the world, examples abound of what she calls “dominant minorities”-ethnic groups that have demonstrated a remarkable ability to succeed in business wherever they may live. In Russia, six of the seven billionaires that

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