BY EDNA EMENI
UNITY, they say, is the glue that holds us together, even in the face of adversity. When we stand together, we can achieve greatness, and it is the key to unlocking our collective potential.
In a world that seeks to divide us, unity is a powerful act of resistance and hope; it is the foundation upon which we can build a brighter future for all. When we unite, we become an unstoppable force for good, as unity is the bridge that connects us, even when we come from different backgrounds and perspectives. And by promoting unity, we can create a world where everyone feels valued and respected.
If you share this view with me, you would agree that, last week’s the Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Prof Epiphany Azinge’s (SAN) visit to the Traditional Ruler of Owa Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Dr. Emmanuel Efeizomor 11, that played up unity, cooperation and greater understanding among Royal Fathers in Delta North, in order to fast track the development of the region was a welcome development.
The visit was a welcome development because of the imperative of unity among the Traditional Rulers if they must forge a common front for the Anioma people of the State, who have, over the years become strategic in the socio- political, cultural and economic equation of Delta State.
Because of the fundamental role Traditional Rulers play in our clime in stabilizing and promoting peace at the grassroots, Delta State and the country at large cannot afford to ignore them in our daily affairs.
Traditional Rulers are the custodians of the traditions/customs of the people or subjects, they are the closest to those at the grassroots, therefore, they are in a better position to feel their pulse, know what they want, know their views on issues and serve as the bridge between them and the government at whatever level For this reason, and many more, it was appropriate that the two distinguished Royal Fathers in the State advocated the urgent need for the Traditional Rulers in Delta North to unite, as unity was a vital instrument for the development of the region. With unity amongs the Traditional Rulers of the region, they could, together, push for faster and more development and growth of the region in the area of culture, economy, politics and even social integration and harmony, that would lead to a more united, stable and forceful Anioma Region.
Hear what HRM, Dr. Emmanuel Efeizomor 11 had to say in this regard during the visit of the Asagba of Asaba. “With unity and increased collaboration among Traditional Rulers from Delta North, there would be greater understanding among them, that would fast track rapid socio- economic and political development and growth of the Anioma Nation “. And for those who are familiar with him, His Majesty had championed this call for a long time now. At any fora of Anioma people, he had made his position on the need for Traditional Rulers from the Anioma extraction to come together as a strong force for the common good of the Anioma people.
Tracing the historical and cultural ties between the people of Owa Kingdom and Asaba, he prayed that Traditional Rulers in the region should be their brother’s keeper, and expressed happiness for the visit of the Asagba of Asaba. He prayed God to grant him a peaceful and more prosperous reign, that would usher in more development to the capital city of Asaba.
In his response, the Asagba of Asaba, HRM Prof Epiphany Azinge (SAN) said, his visit to the Owa Monarch was historic, being his first major engagement outside his domain since his ascension to the throne, adding that, the visit was meant to congratulate the Owa Monarch on his 87th birthday anniversary, and to appreciate him for his supportive role during his coronation, as well as condole him over the passing of one of his son’s.
As expected, the Asagba of Asaba used the occasion to advocate for constitutional roles for Traditional Rulers, stressing that, findings have shown that, over 80 percent of disputes are being resolved by Traditional Rulers, hence the increasing need for constitutionally guaranteed roles for Royal Fathers.
Interestingly, the call for proposed constitutional roles for Traditional Rulers in the country passed it’s second reading on the floor of the National Assembly, thus, signalling hope for more meaningful roles for our Traditional Rulers in the country. This is, indeed, a demand that had been advocated by Traditional Rulers and concerned Nigerians for years, this it is a heart-warming development.
The Asagba, also in agreement with the Obi of Owa Kingdom, underscored the need for greater unity and formidable body for traditional rulers at the Senatorial District, State and National levels to enhance a stronger voice on issues of common interest to the people of Anioma.
“It would be recalled that, the Asagba of Asaba had in the past appreciated and commended the leadership and members of Delta North Traditional Rulers Forum, under the Chairmanship of the Owa Monarch, His Royal Majesty, Obi Dr. Emmanuel Efeizomor 11. In a letter of appreciation, the Asgaba remarked that the presence of the delegation of Traditional Rulers from the Delta North extraction at his coronation meant so much to him, and the entire people of Asaba Kingdom.
He, therefore, expressed optimism that the show of solidarity as exemplified by the visit would translate to harmonious relationship among the Traditional Rulers and the people of Delta North. He prayed God to give the Chairman of the Forum, HRM Obi Efeizomor 11 longer years and graceful reign on the throne of his ancestors.
That prayer of longer years on the throne of his ancestors, was answered when the Owa Monarch, by the grace of God added one more year to his years, as he turned 87 last week, for which, according to the Asagba of Asaba, was one of the reasons for his visit to the Owa Palace – To congratulate him on his 87th birthday anniversary. God, indeed, answers prayers.
At 87, the Owa Monarch belongs to the Club of Octogenarians and by the grace of God, he shall comfortably walk into the Club of nonagenarians, when he clocks 90.
This prayer has become necessary because, His Majesty is a man, who from a humble beginning became a King. At 87 he has seen it all and gained invaluable wisdom and life experience that has made Owa Kingdom the envy of many kingdoms in Delta State and beyond. With a close walk with him, you would find out how amazing and knowledgeable he is, even at 87; as he softly and quietly shares the stories or happenings of yesteryears, a glimpse into history and a bygone era.
At that age, the Owa Monarch is an inspiration to the younger generations, showing that age is just a number and that life can be fulfilling at any stage. He is cherished by his family members, subjects, friends and many others too numerous to mention, as he continues to provide love, guidance, and support to them.
