Emeka Esogbue

 Ani Gaa Tu Waa: The Universal Curse of the Anioma People Emeka Esogbue ​One specific phrasal curse distinguishes the Anioma people from their neighbours: "Ani ga tui" or "Ani gaa tu wa." Growing up, I frequently heard this expression used as a sharp rebuke. At the time, I assumed it was a local Ibusa (Igbuzo) quirk, only to later discover that its reach extends deep into the Ika region. ​The phrase is often the ultimate recourse for the wronged. Imagine a petty thief caught in the act or fleeing after a successful heist; a victimized elderly woman might cry out in anguish, "Ani gaa tu gbu we o!" ​I was recently surprised to learn how deeply rooted this is among the Ukwuani people as well. We even hear it immortalized in the lyrics of the famous Ukwuani musician, Chuks Igba, who sings: "Ani gaa tu gbu ndi iwe anyi" (May the earth crush those who hate us). ​Tracing the exact etymological origin of this phrase across Enuani, Ika, and Ndokwa territo...

 Christmas Gifts: Fred Chijindu Ajudua Media Team Spreads Love to Over 500 Community Indigenes Story by Emeka Esogbue The Fred Chijindu Ajudua Media Team, popularly known as FCA Media, on Friday carried out a kind-spirited humanitarian outreach in Ibusa, reaching no fewer than five hundred indigenes across different quarters of the community. Pen Master gathered that the beneficiaries cut across age groups, kindreds, and social strata, underscoring the inclusive nature of the initiative. Among those who benefited from the Christmas goodwill were notable community elders, including Onowu Egbune, the Diokpa of Umuodafe, and Diokpa Noble Okolie, alongside several widows, elderly persons, and other families. The outreach saw lucky households receive essential food items such as rice, cooking oil, noodles, and other household commodities, aimed at easing the burden of the season and enabling families to celebrate Christmas with dignity and joy. Speaking on behalf of the team, Miss Mimi ...

The Story Behind "Ezigbonmadu Nwa Okoasia": Uncovering the Legacy of an Ibusa Woman By Emeka Esogbue Did you ever listen to your parents make the sarcastic phrase of "Ezigbonmadu Nwa Okoasia as some of us did while growing up?" I grew up fo become familiar with the phrase "Ezigbonmadu Nwa Okoasia," a sarcastic expression that conveyed irony or mocking humour. My mother and other Ibusa parents would often use this phrase, followed by a stern reprimand or even a beating because it was a common reaction to misbehaviour, like disobeying rules and other offences. As a little boy, the phrase piqued my curiosity, and I recently had a conversation with a lady from Ibusa who mentioned "Ezigbonmadu Nwa Okoasia." To my surprise, she revealed that it was the name of a real person, an Ibusa woman who lived in the past. Although I was familiar with the Okoasia family of Ogboli, the prefixed Ezigbonmadu often puzzled me. Researching further into the lady's ...

 My Family Believes in Giving Back to my Community, Vebron Carre Chief, Obi Dr. Henry Ajudua Obi Dr. Henry Ajudua is a philanthropic name in Ibusa with his Vebron Carre, Foundation extending charitable services to his community. Over time, his profile rose, making him a cultural figure in the community. In 2024, he took up the revered Obi title of Ibusa in what was one of the most publicized traditional rites of the Enuani people. In this interview with PEN MASTER (Emeka Esogbue), Obi Dr. Henry Ajudua shares personal views on issues touching on the community, which  concerns his family, Obiship experience, philanthropy, cultural life and current state of the community. Excerpts: Pen Master: You are Obi Dr. Henry Chukwuma Ajudua, a USA-based medic from the Ibusa community. Obi, can you tell our readers more about yourself? Ajudua: Alright, thank you very much. To your question, I am Obi Dr. Henry Chukwumaonyenmenjo Ajudua, a USA-based Doctoral PhD holder in Pharmaceutical. Addi...

 Erosion of Ibusa's Traditional Naming System: A Casualty of Westernization By Emeka Esogbue The Ibusa people of Nigeria once cherished their vibrant festivals, which showcased music, dance, cultural exhibitions, and community gatherings beyond the present. These events brought the community together, commemorating significant occasions like harvests, cleansing, and the traditional New Year. Festivals like Iwu, Ulo, and Ine/Ichu Ekwensu were integral to Ibusa's cultural identity.  The festivals' vibrant celebrations have always been inclusive, welcoming women to participate freely alongside men. Historically, women have played a vital role in enriching the festivities with their energetic dance performances and joyful spirits. This tradition continues to thrive, as women still participate in large numbers in the Iwu Festival. Although their traditional roles may be limited, their presence is essential to the festival's completeness, adding depth and richness to the cult...

 ANIOMA WATCH PERSONALITY OF THE WEEK August 3, 2024 Ibusa Scholar with Philanthropy and Healthy Relationship with His Environment: A Biography of Prof Fred Osadebe - Emeka Esogbue Prof Fred Osy Osadebe (Academic, Accountant, Financial Analyst, Data Analyst, Administrator and Philanthropist) was born to Obi Joseph Igbawuzia Osadebe who was once the Diokpa (traditional head) of Nkpanyala Clan and Mrs. Lucy Ogbeianu Osadebe nee Obi Nedua from Idumuobi, Ogbeowele, Ibusa).  He hails from Nkpanyala Clan in Umuekea Quarters of Ibusa in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State. In 1971, he attended the Oranmiyan Memorial Grammar School in Ile-Ife, Osun State, then St. Columbia Grammar School in Agbor after finishing elementary school.  Prof Osadebe worked briefly with the National Provident Fund before proceeding to the USA. He became admitted into Texas Southern University and University of Houston, Texas where the degrees of B.BA in Accounting, M.BA in Finance and P...

 Leo Nkeaka, an Ibusa Politician, Donates N2 Million to Constituents - Emeka Esogbue  In a recent act of altruism, prominent Ibusa Politician, Businessman, and Estate Realtor, Hon. Leo Nkeaka, on Tuesday, gave away money to 100 people in Ward 8 of the Umueze Quarters of the Ibusa community, totaling approximately two million naira. When PEN MASTER contacted Hon. Nkeaka, also referred to as "Ohamadike" in the community, he stated, "The move is to support our people and alleviate the level of suffering in our society." "I still give back to the underprivileged members of our society, widows, the impoverished, the needy, and my people," he said. It was further learnt that the philanthropic initiative started as far back as 2007 when he contested and won the councilorship election in the community, a position he held until 2011, with the initiative lasting for about 17 years now.  Hon Leo Nkeaka, one of the most popular youth figures in politics from the commu...

 Izagbo's Impacts and Dedication to Ibusa, Inspiring, Ekene Okonkwo Reacts to Pen Master's Izagbo Honour It's truly inspiring to read about the remarkable accomplishments and contributions of Elder Statesman, Dr. Austin Izagbo, and his significant impact on the Ibusa community, Anioma, Delta State, and Nigeria as a whole. His dedication to communal development, integrity, and selfless service is truly commendable. Dr. Izagbo's multifaceted involvement in various sectors such as politics, business, administration, and social development reflects his commitment to utilizing his skills and influence for the betterment of society. His efforts in promoting sports, youth empowerment, and cultural heritage highlight his deep-rooted connection to his community and the people he serves. His acts of integrity, such as returning an overpayment to his company and fostering a culture of honesty and respect in his interactions with others, exemplify the values of transparency and eth...

  As Chief Francis Nduka Ajidua Goes Home in Grand Style: Tribute to a Man of Truth and Viscosity of Ibusa Community-orientation - Emeka Esogbue In death, it was a great celebration, something he would exactly wish for, having led a fulfilled life. Africans celebrate deaths as much as births. Hence, the Isieke family, Ibusa friends, Anioma, and mourners all the way from Port Harcourt in Rivers State and other parts of the country, gathered on Saturday, March 23, 2024, to pay their last respects to my Uncle, Chief Francis Nduka Ajidua. Born to Chief Ajidua and Senior Mother Christiana Ajidua of Umuafene in Isieke Clan, Umuekea, Ibusa, the late Chief Francis Nduka Ajidua, an Ibusa elite of high social position, was fatherly to all. He was always standing up for the family and was a rallying point and involver in all matters of concern to our family. A resolver of disputes, every matter brought to him always saw its pacific end amicably. Chief Ajidua was a great contributor to ...

  Chukwuemeka Jerry Esogbue (Born 6 June 1970), usually referred to as Emeka Esogbue, is an Anioma (Nigerian) historian, journalist, writer and Anioma crusader. He is the author of 'A Study of the Origins and Migrations of Anioma Settlements' (2015) and 'A Short History of Omu' (2016), published by Carophem Communications Limited, Ibadan. Esogbue is currently Research Fellow with Anioma Essence Magazine and also Associate Editor of Homage Magazine. As a historian, Emeka Esogbue favours the use of historical continuity in rendering past accounts and digging into the past of the Anioma people. He emphasises on the origin and intertribal relationship of the Anioma people of Delta, Anambra, Imo, Edo and Rivers States of Nigeria. Emeka Esogbue has in his writings passionately criticised the near assimilation of the Anioma people by related ethnic groups in the country and many of his works are centred on this. He was born to the family of Esogbue in Umuafene, Isieke, Umuekea...

  Elder Emeka Esogbue (born 6 June 1970), commonly called Pen Master is a Nigerian (Anioma) historian, journalist, researcher, writer, and Anioma crusader. He is the Author of 'A Study of the Origins and Migrations of Anioma Settlements' (2015), 'A Short History of Omu' (2016), published by Carophem Communications Limited, Ibadan, and 'Essentials of Anioma History' published in United States of America by SGNT Media.  Esogbue is currently the Editor-at-Large of Integrity Watchdog and the Research Editor with the Organization For the Advancement of Anioma Culture (OFAAC), publishers of Anioma Essence Magazine. He is also the Associate Editor of Homage Magazine. As a historian, Emeka Esogbue favours the use of historical continuity in rendering past accounts and digging into the past of the Anioma people. He emphasizes on the origin and inter-tribal relationship of the Anioma people of Delta, Anambra, Imo, Edo and Rivers States of Nigeria. Emeka Esogbue has in his...

  I am in the Delta State House of Assembly Race to Serve my People Unconditionally   -        Sir Chuks Okonji Tells Pen Master     The declaration of Sir (Dr.) Chuks Okonji, a respected business tycoon and also a philanthropist from Ibusa in Delta State to join the race for the Delta State House of Assembly under the party platform of APM is already receiving massive support from the people of Oshimili North. Sir Okonji who is praised for his charity in and around the Anioma area, in this interview unveils to PEN MASTER (EMEKA ESOGBUE), a media personality, his agenda and how he hopes to achieve them. He also gives his opinion on the current state of the society and how he expects the right things to be done. Excerpts:       Pen Master: Sir Chuks Okonji, you are welcome. Please, sir, can you introduce yourself to our readers?    Okonji: First and foremost, Pen Master, let me thank you for your t...

 IKWELE CELESTINE OKAFOR, ELECTED CHAIRMAN OF ANIOMA BROTHERS FANS CLUB - Emeka Esogbue In an aftermath of an election, the Ikwele of Ibusa, His Eminence, Chief Engr. Celestine Okeibunor Okafor, on Friday night, emerged as the Chairman of the Anioma Brothers Fans Club. The Ikwele, a revered Ibusa traditional Chief, received the highest number of votes cast in a 3-day election that was held on the Group's forum as coordinated by the Anioma Brothers Administrators.  Election flagged off on May 18, with Chief Engr. Celestine Okafor, Chief Daddy Okeleke, the Mgboko Isiga of Ibusa, Chief Austin Uwaonye Ndinwa, the Okemili of Ibusa, and Mr. Emmanuel 'Kwasa' Amatokwu, announced as the nominees of the newly formed Fans Club for voting by the Administrators.  In the total of 48 votes received, Chief Celestine Okafor polled 35 and was subsequently declared the Chairman-Elect by Mr. Chuks Patrick Chubby who announced the result on behalf of the Anioma Brothers Fans Club. The Ikwele ...

 The Exit of Union Bank: Are Banks Afraid to Invest in Ibusa? - Ibusa People Exchange Views Story by Emeka Esogbue (Pen Master) On Tuesday, a debate germane to the economic development of the Ibusa community was provoked on whether banks are afraid to invest in the community or not. Posting a submission in Ibusa Arise, a WhatsApp group, with a heavy Ibusa presence, Austin Ngwolo had queried:  "Let's Discuss: Why are banks afraid to invest in Igbuzo? Is the town economically unviable?" "Is it not a shame that the only bank in Igbuzo now closes by 1.00 pm?" The submission received the attention of some members of the forum, many of who might have been feeling troubled by the situation but had evidently found the debate a useful opportunity to give their responses. One of the commentators was Ngozi Akinmbo who described the situation as a shameful problem for the people of the community. According to him, the reason Union Bank relocated from the community is still ...

 Nni Olar: The Precious Food of the Anioma People - Emeka Esogbue Were you ever served Nni Olar? Well, if you are a bit aged, spent your days in any Anioma home as a parent or relatively young within the period of discussion and spent the early days of your life with your grandparents in any Anioma home back in the 'village,' congratulations to you because you will comprehend fully what I mean with this story. Nni Olar was never a special delicacy of the Anioma people but actually any remainder of food that should not be discarded because it must be eaten the following day. It was then a pleasing food with rarity to the Anioma people.  Unlike today, Anioma's parents rarely threw away foods that had undergone the effects of time. They simply covered them up inside the plates to awaiting the following day. All that they did was to hurriedly simmer the food again on the stove and it would be eaten again satisfactorily, especially by children hurrying to school.  Then you hea...