The Obi of Idumuje-Unor in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State, HRM Obi Charles Chukwunwike Anyasi III, has commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for what he described as notable development interventions in the community.
The monarch spoke during the grand finale of the annual Oganihu Festival, which attracted indigenes of Idumuje-Unor from within Nigeria and the diaspora.
Obi Anyasi III said the development initiatives of the state government had contributed to improved infrastructure in the community while strengthening the people’s sense of inclusion in the affairs of the state.
He specifically cited the recently completed Justice Chukwudumebi Oseji Memorial Road, named in honour of the late Supreme Court Justice and illustrious son of the community.
The traditional ruler also acknowledged the intervention of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in expanding the road network across Idumuje Kingdom, noting that improved connectivity had enhanced movement and created opportunities for increased socio-economic activities.
Festival Celebrates Heritage, Unity
Speaking on the significance of Oganihu, Obi Anyasi described the centuries-old festival as an important expression of the history, values and enduring identity of the Idumuje-Unor people.
According to him, the festival goes beyond cultural preservation, providing a platform for the people to strengthen unity, promote peace and conviviality, and reaffirm their collective identity.
The monarch, who attended the celebration alongside his wife and palace chiefs, also expressed delight over the restoration of the Aniocha North State House of Assembly Constituency II, comprising the Idumuje and Odiani clans.
He said the restoration would provide fresh opportunities for representation and accelerated development in the area.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman of the 2026 Oganihu Organising Committee and Uwolo of Idumuje-Unor, Chief Afamefuna Samuel Obanor, described the festival as an occasion of thanksgiving to God and a celebration of the community’s culture, peace and happiness.
Several palace chiefs also spoke on the cultural and unifying importance of the festival.
They included Chief Austin Lazarus Asimonye, Ojichukwueje of Idumuje-Unor; Chief Christian Onyenibeji; Chief Ikediashi Chukwudi, Ebubechukwu; Chief Jideonwor Okafor, Odogwu; and Chief Ogiso.
A prominent indigene of the community and former Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Delta State Council, Dr Norbert Chiazor, described Oganihu as a central component of the cultural life of Idumuje-Unor.
Chiazor expressed appreciation to the monarch for his leadership and for sustaining the cultural heritage of the people.
Youths Add Colour To Celebration
The festival also featured a vibrant cultural display competition involving youths from different quarters of the community.
Imeogbe Village emerged winner of the competition, while Ogbeakwu finished as runner-up. Okwunye and Idumuobu placed third and fourth respectively.
Atuma youths, however, did not participate in the competition.
The celebration reached its climax with the traditional homage by the chiefs before the Idumuje-Unor monarch.
The royal court was thereafter filled with music, dance and colourful cultural performances, providing a fitting finale to a festival that brought together the people in celebration of their shared heritage.
