By: Philip Elueme
The story of the highly successful Anioma Carnival Reception held on April 4, 2018, at the Asaba Cenotaph in honour of His Excellency, Senator (Dr.) Ifeanyi Okowa, is one that brings back fond memories of unity, strategy, and vision for Anioma Nation.
As Chairman of Information and Strategy for Izu Anioma, I had the privilege of initiating the idea for a grand reception to celebrate Governor Okowa and mobilize the Anioma people behind his second-term ambition. My intention was simple — to unite Anioma sons and daughters across political lines under one progressive agenda: Anioma solidarity for continuity and development.
The Birth of an Idea
In late 2017, during a well-attended Izu Anioma meeting chaired by Dr. Kingsley Ojie, I proposed that we, as Anioma patriots, organize a massive reception in support of Governor Okowa. I noted that our core Delta brothers were already strategizing politically, and it was imperative that we, the Anioma Nation, demonstrate loyalty and unity.
The proposal was unanimously accepted. The executive was then mandated to write to prominent Anioma sons and daughters in government to seek appointments for consultation and coordination. However, our initial letters went unanswered for weeks, creating concern among members.
A Visit to Pa Okowa
Determined to move the process forward, I met with a few respected elders — including the late Chief Uso Onianwa and the late Oza Okita of Asaba — to plan a new approach. It was agreed that, according to Anioma custom, no honour could be bestowed upon a son without the blessing of his father and traditional ruler.
Thus, I was nominated alongside Chief Uso Onianwa to visit Pa Arthur Okowa, the father of the Governor, at his residence in Owa.
When we arrived the following day in Chief Onianwa’s brown Mercedes Benz, Pa Okowa received us warmly. The moment I informed him that Izu Anioma sought his permission and blessings to begin mobilization for the planned carnival reception, his joy was uncontainable.
“This is the happiest day of my life,” he exclaimed with excitement. “It shall be well with you, my sons, for bringing this good news to Owa Nation.”
Securing Royal Blessings
Chief Onianwa then appealed to Pa Okowa to facilitate an audience for Izu Anioma with His Royal Majesty, Dr. Emmanuel Efeizomor II, the Obi of Owa Kingdom, so that we could obtain the royal blessing for the event.
Pa Okowa immediately agreed but insisted, in line with Owa tradition, that he could not withhold such joyful news from his king for even an hour. Without hesitation, he prepared customary drinks and gift money from his store of fine wines and called His Royal Majesty directly.
Despite being in physiotherapy at the time, HRM graciously agreed to receive us. Pa Okowa, filled with pride and excitement, led us straight to the palace, declaring,
“Your Majesty, I am bringing the harbingers of great news for Owa Nation — a royal honour for our son, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.”
On our way, I quickly contacted Sir Alfred Okoruwe, our Deputy President and former President of Izu Anioma UK branch, who resides in Agbor. He promptly joined us at the palace despite having another engagement that day.
A Legacy of Unity and Vision
That meeting with HRM marked the spiritual and cultural beginning of the Anioma Carnival Reception, which later became a resounding success. It was not just a political event — it was a celebration of unity, identity, and pride in Anioma heritage.
The carnival at the Asaba Cenotaph in April 2018 showcased the strength of Anioma solidarity and demonstrated that, when united, we can drive our collective aspirations to success.
Looking back today, I remain humbled and grateful to have played a modest role alongside other patriotic Anioma leaders who shared the vision of supporting our own — Governor Ifeanyi Okowa — for the good of Anioma land and Delta State at large.