By : Ike Philip Abiagom
The ancient town of Igbuzo came alive on Saturday as the Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Prof. Epiphany Azinge, SAN, OON, paid a historic royal visit to the Obuzor of Igbuzo, His Royal Majesty, Prof. Louis Chelunor Nwoboshi, in a move aimed at strengthening the age-old bond between the two neighbouring communities.
The visit, which was warmly received by the people of Igbuzo, was widely described as symbolic and significant, considering the longstanding relationship between Asaba and Igbuzo—two communities bound together by history, culture, kinship, and intermarriage.
Speaking during the visit, the Asagba of Asaba emphasized the need to reinvigorate the spirit of brotherhood, unity, and peaceful coexistence that has characterized relations between both communities for generations.
According to Prof. Azinge, Asaba and Igbuzo have always maintained deep historical and cultural ties, stressing that the relationship between the two communities should continue to flourish for the benefit of present and future generations.The revered monarch noted that both communities had enjoyed decades of harmonious coexistence without bitterness or rancour, adding that the time had come to rekindle the brotherly love, mutual respect, and cooperation that defined their relationship in the past.
“Our relationship is rooted in history, culture, kinship, and shared values. We must continue to promote peace, understanding, and cooperation between our people,” the Asagba stated.
The visit carried special significance for many residents of Igbuzo, as Prof. Azinge maintained a close friendship with the late Distinguished Senator Peter Onyelukachukwu Nwaoboshi, whom he regarded as a brother and trusted ally. During the lifetime of the late senator, Igbuzo became a second home to the Asagba, further strengthening the bond between the two communities.
Responding, the Obuzor of Igbuzo, His Royal Majesty, Prof. Louis Chelunor Nwoboshi, expressed profound appreciation for the visit and described it as a landmark event in the history of both kingdoms.
The Obuzor commended the Asagba for taking the initiative to deepen the relationship between Asaba and Igbuzo, noting that both communities remain brothers united by history and destiny. He pledged his support for all peaceful efforts aimed at resolving boundary-related concerns between the two communities and prayed for lasting peace, unity, and progress.
The monarch stressed that dialogue, mutual respect, and understanding remain the surest path to preserving the cordial relationship that has existed between both communities over the years.
Also speaking on the significance of the visit, the Executive Chairman of Oshimili North Local Government Area, Olorogun Innocent Ifeanyi Esewezie, described the meeting as a landmark moment in the history of both kingdoms.
He commended the Obuzor of Igbuzo and the Asagba of Asaba for demonstrating exemplary leadership through dialogue, unity, and traditional diplomacy, noting that their commitment to peace would further strengthen the relationship between the two communities.
Olorogun Esewezie expressed confidence that the renewed bond between the two royal fathers would serve as a model for other communities, laying a solid foundation for sustained peace, mutual respect, and accelerated development across Oshimili North and the wider Oshimili area.
The historic gathering attracted an impressive array of traditional rulers, political leaders, community stakeholders, and palace chiefs.
Among the dignitaries present to receive the Asagba were the Odogwu of Igbuzo, High Chief Charles Ositadinma Okonkwo; the Ikwele of Igbuzo, High Chief Celestine Okafor; Chief (Barr.) Fred Ajudua, the Onwa Igbuzo, alongside his wife, Hon. (Dr.) Princess Pat Ajudua, Delta State Commissioner for Women Affairs; Chief Dr. Austin Obidi, the Nshi-Nweze of Igbuzo; members of the Igbuzo Traditional Council; and several other notable palace chiefs, elders, and prominent sons and daughters of the kingdom.
The visit was widely applauded by residents and stakeholders, who described it as a commendable step towards strengthening peace, fostering unity, and promoting greater cooperation between Asaba and Igbuzo—two sister communities united by history, culture, and an enduring spirit of brotherhood.