By Patrick Ochei
The Chief Executive Officer of Bridge Radio Asaba, Dr. Henry Nzekwu has said that the Omu Anioma, HRM Obi Martha Dunkwu stands tall, not only as a revered figure within her community, but as a global symbol of cultural preservation and advancement.
He made the assertion while presenting his speech during the 2023 Global Icon of African Cultural Heritage Award on Omu Anioma on Tuesday 5th December, 2023, at Okpanam in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State, where he held sway as chairman of the occasion.
His words, “It is an honour to be asked to chair such an auspicious occasion of huge cultural significance. Today, we stand witness to a moment that transcends time – a celebration of legacy, culture, and the embodiment of excellence. The conferment of the Global Icon of African Cultural Heritage award upon the eminent custodian of Anioma culture, Her Royal Majesty Obi Dr Martha Dunkwu, the Omu Anioma, is an epochal moment in the annals of Anioma History.
“This recognition isn’t just about an individual; it is a tribute to the enduring appeal and significance of Anioma’s cultural fabric. The Omu Anioma stands tall, not only as a revered figure within her community but as a global symbol of cultural preservation and advancement.
“Her Royal Majesty, through her profound dedication and unwavering commitment, has upheld the mantle of custodianship of our culture and traditions with grace and fortitude, helping to preserve our cultural heritage, and nurturing progress within our communities and beyond. Her leadership strips culture of its mystique; making it endearing and easy to embrace.
“As we convene in this era of the International Decade for People of African Descent (2015-2024), proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly, the recognition bestowed upon the Omu Anioma holds profound significance. It aligns seamlessly with the objectives of this noble decade, seeking to promote recognition, justice, and development for people of African descent worldwide. Her Royal Majesty’s elevation as Global Icon of African Cultural Heritage is a testament to her unwavering dedication to these principles.
“The journey towards preserving cultural heritage is not merely about safeguarding traditions; it is a commitment to fostering inclusivity, celebrating diversity, and embracing the collective mosaic of human experiences. The Omu Anioma exemplifies this commitment. She stands as an exemplar, not only for the Anioma woman and people, but for Africa and the world, reminding us of the enduring value embedded within our culture, whilst espousing the important role women can play in the promotion of our culture and the advancement of societies.
“This award is therefore a reminder that the world values Africa’s rich traditions and recognises its distinct role for the socialisation of future generations. May this recognition further fuel the flames of excellence within Her Royal Majesty, Omu Anioma. May it serve as a catalyst for renewed vigour in preserving and championing cultural heritage, inspiring generations to come. May it bring peace, unity and progress to our beloved Anioma land, Nigeria and the world at large.
“Omu Igwe. Long may you reign. And long may you live!! Thank you for being an inspiration and a Tower of support to me. God bless you”, Dr. Henry Nzekwu said.
It was indeed a day of eulogies as dignitaries took turns to appraise and appreciate the role Omu Dunkwu has vigorously played in the preservation and advancement of Anioma Culture.
The Monarch of Ubulu-Uno Kingdom and 2nd Vice Chairman of Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers, HRM Obi Henry Afamefune Kikachukwu, who was the Royal Father of the Day, took time to reveal the vision behind the stool of Omu Anioma.
He said he saw the potential in Omu Dunkwu as then Omu of Okpanam, and he took advantage of the significant impact she was making in promoting Anioma Culture, thereby convincing other traditional rulers to crown her Omu Anioma to help in rescuing the Omu Institution from going into extinction in very many communities of Anioma.
Obi Kikachukwu affirmed that Omu Dunkwu has not only saved the institution of Omu from sliding into oblivion, but has really galvanised those called into the office to live, function and abide by the tenets of the stool.
He however, observed that those who never bought the idea of the Omu Anioma crown, are today more attached to Omu Dunkwu than himself, because they have come to appreciate the reality of the vision of yester years.
The highly revered Monarch, therefore urged all Anioma sons and daughters to continue to support Omu Anioma and by extension, all the Omus of various Anioma communities.
In swift reaction, the representative of Major General Raymond Ochei as the Special Guest of Honour, Mr. Okey Aligbe was of the opinion that Omus no longer play the roles they were known for as spiritual purifiers of the communities.
He said he was happy to realise that in spite of the modernisation of our culture, Omu Dunkwu is still very much in tune with the traditional history and functions of Omu Institution as kept by our forefathers.
Of course in response to his concerns, Omu Dunkwu reminded him that the forefathers of Anioma kept the market as means of livelihood for the Omus, whereas the communities are also supposed to support their cares.
According to her, those are no longer the case as the local government has taken over the markets while the communities no longer care for their Omus, thereby leaving them to fend for themselves.
She however, assured him that the Omus still keep the rules and functions as traditionally laid down, irrespective of the challenges they face.
Obi Martha Dunkwu said, the Omus still carry out their spiritual duty which is 70 percent, while the other 30 percent is dedicated to their functions of custodianship of the market, leadership of the female folks and of course, settling of family issues.
