The Opa branch of the Ogbakor Ikwerre Cultural Organization world wide has lamented the brutal murder of one of their illustrious sons, Late Mr. Wonukwuru Obaziolu, the first Ikwerre journalist by the Biafran soldiers.
Speaking during the Obiri Opa branch of Ogbakor Ikwerre foundation laying ceremony at the Rivers State College of Art and Science Rumuola, Obio/Akpor LGA Rivers State, Eze Dr. Chris Akani the chairman of Opa branch who expressed sadness over the untimely death of Late Obaziolu during the Nigeria Civil War in 1967 – 1970 pointing out that the Ikwerre ethnic nationality is still groaning in pains about the death of Late Mr. Obaziolu and many others.
According to him this is part of the unmediated contradiction of our time, pointing out that it is in recognition of this act that Opa branch constituted a historical research team to examine the extent of damage Ikwerre people suffered during the civil war.
He noted that building an office that would become the beehive of the Opa branch cultural activities was part of the promise made by the present executive of the branch expressing happiness for the commencement of the project with the laying of foundation ceremony.
He expressed confidence that with the little money realized during the Opa day celebration and the Opa branch 42nd anniversary celebration in November 2014 they can make appreciative impact on the building of the project.
In his speech, the President General of Ogbakor Ikwerre Cultural Organization Worldwide, Prof. Augustine Onyeozu who described Opa branch of Ogbakor Ikwerre as a serious branch expressed his gratitude for the performance especially the commencement of the building of the Opa branch secretariat and enjoined other branches of Ogbakor Ikwerre to emulate them.
The President General who expressed sadness over the brutal killing of Late Obaziolu noted that he would forever be remembered by his people.
Speaking during a lecture in memory of Late Wonukuru Obaziolu, Mr. Ayo Tamuno the chairman Rivers State Council of NUJ commended Mrs. Comfort Ige the daughter of the Late Wonukwuru Obaziolu and her husband, Mr. Ige for organizing the memorial event stressing that their collaboration in organizing the ceremony proved that she is in the safe hand with the husband.
Mr. Tamuno debunked claims by some Igbos that Rivers State is Biafra stressing that Rivers State is not Biafra, but Nigeria.
Highlights of the ceremony include Opa wrestling display, Obiri Opa foundation laying, lecture, honour of Ogechi Paul a broadcaster and Late Wonukwuru Obaziolu among others. ###
Emeka Jilly Ejiowhor
