By Ifeanyi Omenogor
The people of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom have been urged to continue living in peace and unity for the sake of sustained development.
The Isagba of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, Chief (Dr) Jude Ozah, made this call during the celebration of the New Yam Festival in Ogwashi-Uku, Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State.
Dr. Ozah emphasized that development thrives only in an atmosphere of peace and unity, warning that no community plagued by rancour and division can progress. He reminded indigenes that Ogwashi-Uku has long been known as a peaceful community and urged them to uphold peace and togetherness as their guiding principles.
According to him, the kingdom recognizes only one traditional ruler, and he appealed to the people to give their unflinching support to the king to attract more development to the area.
Highlighting the importance of the New Yam Festival, Dr. Ozah explained that it serves as a platform to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the kingdom, a time to thank God for a bountiful harvest, and an opportunity for reunion among indigenes both at home and abroad.
He also disclosed that he introduced a table tennis competition as part of the festival to engage the youth meaningfully and give them a sense of belonging. “The youths are the bedrock of every nation,” he said, adding that the competition would help steer them away from cultism, drug abuse, and other social vices that could jeopardize their future. He further noted that the initiative would be expanded to accommodate more youths across the locality.
Dr. Ozah commended the efforts of law enforcement agencies in maintaining peace and security in Ogwashi-Uku and its environs, acknowledging that the security equipment he donated had been put to effective use.
Among those who graced the occasion were Barrister Ignatius Morsindi of Ogbe-Onicha Quarter, Chief (Barrister) Zealiwe Ojeogwu, the Alio of Ogwashi-Uku, Chief Emeka Ekwenuya, the Ochendo of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, and Chief Obi Chinedu. They all described Dr. Ozah as an uncommon philanthropist whose generosity and dedication to community development are exemplary.
Others present included Hon. Stephen Ezedinor, Councillor representing Ward 3; Hon. Patrick Onyekanankea, Councillor representing Ward 4; Comrade Sunday Ogwu, Anti-Cult Boss, Ogwashi-Uku; Alhaji Garuba Abubakar, Chairman of the Fulani Cattle Rearers, Aniocha South; and Alhaji Garuba Ibrahim.
They all commended Dr. Ozah for his unwavering commitment to the progress of Ogwashi-Uku, describing his contributions as unparalleled and the first of their kind in the history of the community.
