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Pastor Idowu Okeze: The Rising Light Transforming Igbuzo

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Pastor Idowu Okeze: The Rising Light Transforming Igbuzo

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

Igbuzo town is presently in deep mourning following the passing of an illustrious son and political titan, Distinguished Senator Peter Onyelukachukwu Nwaoboshi, whose death has been widely described as the fall of an Iroko tree. His departure has left many citizens asking painful questions about leadership, continuity, and political replacement.
Yet, history reminds us that Igbuzo has always been blessed with exceptional personalities. From time immemorial, the town has produced men and women who rise in moments of challenge to serve, uplift, and give hope to the people. In this season of grief, many residents are drawing encouragement from the growing impact of Pastor Idowu Okeze, whose emergence has brought renewed hope and practical support to the community development.
Though not a politician, Pastor Okeze has, through consistent service and compassion, demonstrated leadership that rivals—and in many cases surpasses—that of some political office holders. His contributions to the development of Igbuzo are visible and far-reaching. These include the provision of solar street lights, Transformers, empowerment programmes for youths and women, support for widows and the less privileged, Construction of roads, renovation of schools, provision of laboratory equipment, Scholarship and the empowerment of small-scale businesses, among many other interventions.
As Igbuzo mourns the loss of Senator Nwaoboshi, the town is also preparing for a season of renewed upliftment. On December 29, 2025, Pastor Idowu Okeze is set to empower Igbuzo people with various items and cash support, further demonstrating his commitment to easing the pains of the community and taking the town to the next level.
In addition, on December 27, 2025, Pastor Okeze will host a Mega Night of Praise, expected to be one of the most transformative worship events in the state. The programme is anticipated to bring together people from far and near in an atmosphere of thanksgiving, prayer, and spiritual renewal.
In the midst of sorrow, many in Igbuzo now view Pastor Idowu Okeze as a God-sent blessing—an emerging Iroko tree whose selfless service is helping to heal wounds, restore hope, and reposition the town for greater progress. While the memory of Senator Peter Nwaoboshi remains evergreen, the people of Igbuzo are drawing strength from new leadership rooted in compassion, service, and genuine love for the community.

Nigeria Mourns a Giant of the Game as Football Icon Lawrence Okonji Passes On at 83

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Nigeria Mourns a Giant of the Game as Football Icon Lawrence Okonji Passes On at 83

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

Death has taken a revered figure, but history will forever preserve his name. He was more than a legend; he was an institution whose life embodied excellence, sacrifice, and service. In his prime, he inspired generations, broke barriers, and set standards that redefined his field. With his passing, the nation mourns not just the loss of a man, but the departure of an era whose impact will echo long after the final whistle of life.
Nigeria has lost one of its most revered football legends with the death of Elder Lawrence Onweazu Okonji, a celebrated striker, coach, motivator, father, traditional title holder, nation builder, and philanthropist whose life and career touched countless lives. He died on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at the age of 83.

Fondly known as the “Daddy of Soccer” and the “Goal Sniffer,” Elder Okonji was among the pioneers of Nigerian football, leaving an indelible mark as a prolific goal scorer, national team player, and later as a highly respected coach who groomed talents across Nigeria and beyond.

Born in 1943 in Abakaliki and hailing originally from Ibusa in Delta State, Okonji’s love for football began at the tender age of five. By 16, he had launched his professional career with Ike Football Club, Abakaliki. He attended St. Theresa’s School, Abakaliki, and later earned a Diploma in Sports (Football Coaching) from the University of Physical Education in Budapest, Hungary.

During his illustrious playing career, Elder Okonji featured for several notable clubs, including Ike FC Abakaliki, Aba Giant Killers (now Enyimba FC), the Eastern Nigeria Team, Port Harcourt Red Devils (now Sharks FC), Ports Authority FC Lagos, and ECN (now NEPA FC Lagos). He also represented Lagos State at the 1973 National Sports Festival.

At the international level, he was a key member of the Green Eagles between 1965 and 1973, playing alongside legends such as Anthony Igwe, Joseph Erico, Peter Anieke, Paul Hamilton, and Sebastian Brodricks. He featured in historic matches against renowned foreign sides including Queens Park Rangers of England and Fortuna Düsseldorf of Germany.

Following his retirement from active football, Okonji seamlessly transitioned into coaching, where he continued to shape Nigerian football. He coached teams such as NEPA FC, Guinness FC Lagos, Lagos Academicals, Requins de l’Atlantique FC of Benin Republic, and Delta Force (formerly DSC FC). One of the most symbolic moments of his career occurred on June 6, 1973, when he scored the final goal ever recorded at the Lagos City Stadium, Onikan, during a friendly match between NEPA and Stationery Stores.

Beyond football, Elder Okonji retired from NEPA in 1989 as a Principal Executive Officer in the Personnel Department and officially stepped away from coaching in 1997. He later ventured into business, founding Okonji Enterprises with his late wife, Justina Okonji.

A respected community leader, he was honoured with a chieftaincy title in his hometown of Ibusa and remained a passionate advocate for youth empowerment and grassroots football development. Over the years, he mentored several players who went on to become household names, including Adokiye Amiesimaka, Alloy Agu, and Waidi Akanni.

Elder Lawrence Okonji’s death marks the end of an era, but his legacy of excellence, discipline, mentorship, and service to Nigerian football will endure for generations to come.

2025 IBUSA SOCCER COMPETITION KICKS OFF TODAY AS TOURNAMENT MARKS 40 YEARS OF CONSISTENCY

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2025 IBUSA SOCCER COMPETITION KICKS OFF TODAY AS TOURNAMENT MARKS 40 YEARS OF CONSISTENCY

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

The much-anticipated 2025 Ibusa Annual Football Competition kicks off today, Wednesday, December 18, 2025, at 3:00 p.m., setting the ancient town of Ibusa (Igbuzo) agog with excitement as the tournament celebrates 40 years of uninterrupted existence and community unity.

The opening match promises fireworks as Ogbeowele FC squares off against Anyalobum FC, a thrilling repeat of the 2024 final. While Ogbeowele appears well-prepared ahead of the clash, Anyalobum has, in recent times, proven to be a formidable side and a hard nut to crack. Football lovers are therefore assured of an exciting and competitive encounter as both teams battle for early supremacy. Best wishes have been extended to both sides for a successful and injury-free match.

Established in 1985, the Ibusa Annual Football Competition has grown from a modest grassroots initiative into one of the longest-running and most consistent community football tournaments in Delta State. The competition was founded by the visionary sports enthusiast and community patriot, Mr. Emmanuel Kwasa Amatokwu, whose passion for youth development and unity laid the foundation for what has become a cherished tradition in Igbuzo.

Over the past four decades, the tournament has transcended sports, evolving into a powerful platform for community bonding, youth engagement, and cultural reunion, particularly during the Christmas and New Year festivities when sons and daughters of Ibusa return home from far and near.

The 2025 edition is especially historic, marking 40 years of resilience, continuity, and grassroots sports excellence—a rare achievement in community-driven sports administration. This year’s competition is proudly supported by North West Petroleum Ltd, MTN, and the sons and daughters of Ibusa, whose collective backing reflects the strong sense of ownership and pride attached to the tournament.

While Mr. Kwasa Amatokwu remains the pillar of the competition, he is strongly supported by a dedicated Sports Executive Committee led by Haji Chukwuyem Ojeih, alongside the unwavering cooperation of the people of Ibusa. Together, their commitment has ensured that the tournament has survived changing times, economic challenges, and administrative transitions.

As the ball rolls off today, the celebration goes beyond football. It is a tribute to 40 years of perseverance, unity, and vision, and a reaffirmation of Ibusa’s enduring spirit. What was once dismissed as an experiment has become a respected institution and a model of consistency for grassroots sports across the state.

Indeed, Igbuzo proudly celebrates Mr. Emmanuel Kwasa Amatokwu and the enduring legacy he has bequeathed to present and future generations, as the town once again rallies around the beautiful game.

HON. FRANK N. ESENWAH: SETTING A NEW STANDARD FOR REPRESENTATION IN OSHIMILI NORTH

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HON. FRANK N. ESENWAH: SETTING A NEW STANDARD FOR REPRESENTATION IN OSHIMILI NORTH

By: Ike Philip Abiagom 

Hon. Frank Esenwah

Over the past two years, the Member representing Oshimili North Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Frank N. Esenwah, has distinguished himself through purposeful, people-centered representation, earning widespread trust and admiration from his constituents.

Across Oshimili North, residents agree that the constituency has never experienced such responsive and impactful leadership. On the floor of the House, Hon. Esenwah remains a consistent and vocal participant in legislative proceedings, contributing actively to debates and playing key roles in the passage of bills aimed at advancing development and strengthening good governance in Delta State.

Trust, political observers note, is earned through integrity, dedication, and consistency. Hon. Esenwah has embodied these qualities, aligning his campaign promises with concrete action. Since assuming office, he has rekindled public confidence in governance by ensuring that the voices and concerns of his constituents are not only heard but translated into meaningful outcomes.

His leadership approach is inclusive and community-focused, cutting across all segments of society. Youths, women, elders, traders, and students attest to his accessibility and open-door policy. Under his stewardship, notable interventions have been recorded in critical sectors such as education, youth empowerment, community infrastructure, rural electrification, healthcare outreach, agriculture, and sustained grassroots engagement.

These accomplishments are tangible and widely felt, reflecting practical solutions that have improved the quality of life for families across towns and villages within the constituency.

Within the legislative arena, Hon. Esenwah has earned a reputation as a responsible and forward-thinking lawmaker. He consistently supports progressive legislation, contributes constructively to policy formulation, and advocates for initiatives that prioritize rural development and inclusive growth.

Beyond legislative duties, he maintains a strong presence in his constituency. Unlike leaders who appear only during election periods, Hon. Esenwah remains actively engaged year-round—participating in town hall meetings, consulting traditional institutions, engaging youth and community groups, and promoting unity and peaceful coexistence.

At a time when politics often fuels division, Hon. Frank Esenwah has emerged as a unifying force, fostering dialogue, building consensus, and encouraging inclusive decision-making.

As the 2027 general elections draw closer, the people of Oshimili North are not just selecting a representative but affirming the kind of leadership they desire—one founded on trust, continuity, and sustained progress. Across wards, communities, and villages, one message continues to echo clearly.

Hon. Frank N. Esenwah has earned the trust of Oshimili North, and the people are ready to renew his mandate.

Igbuzo Community Commends Oborevwori on Road Projects, Appeals for Ogboli Farm Road

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Igbuzo Community Commends Oborevwori on Road Projects, Appeals for Ogboli Farm Road

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

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OBI(Dr.) HENRY AJUDUA-I: THE SWAGGER OF ROYALTY REDEFINING IGBUZO OBISHIP

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OBI(Dr.) HENRY AJUDUA-I: THE SWAGGER OF ROYALTY REDEFINING IGBUZO OBISHIP

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

In every generation, history gifts a community with a rare personality whose presence alone rewrites tradition and elevates identity. For Igbuzo, that rare gift is the Swaggerlious Obi (Dr.)Henry Ajudua-I, Ezeudo I of Igbuzo— The Founder and Chairman of Vebron Carre International, USA,  a man whose carriage, conduct and charisma have taken Igbuzo obiship to a world-class pedestal.

  • A first encounter with Obi (Dr.)Henry Ajudua-I is enough to make even the strongest critics of African tradition reconsider their stance. He does not merely occupy a title; he embodies royalty. He speaks royalty, wears royalty, walks royalty and lives royalty. Every step he takes announces dignity, and every word he speaks commands respect. In him, tradition is not old—it is elegant, relevant and alive.

Igbuzo has always been blessed with illustrious sons and daughters, but the emergence of Obi Henry Ajudua-I has marked a turning point in the town’s traditional history. He has redefined the status and perception of the revered Obiship institution, restoring pride, confidence and global relevance to the throne. What once seemed limited by local boundaries has now found expression on a broader, more dignified stage.

Before now, the red cap chieftaincy in Igbuzo was often viewed as standing apart from the towering traditional institutions of neighbouring towns. Today, through vision, class and unwavering commitment to cultural excellence, Obi Henry Ajudua-I has broken age-long barriers, repositioning Igbuzo’s traditional hierarchy with honour and prestige.

This reality was vividly confirmed during a courtesy visit by a team of community newspaper publishers to his royal mansion in Igbuzo. What greeted them was not just a residence, but a palace of culture, dignity and grace. Royalty was felt in the atmosphere; respect echoed in every exchange. Some visitors, overwhelmed by the aura, assumed he was the paramount ruler—until they were reminded that he holds the highest red cap title in Igbuzo land. The moment left an indelible mark, a memory likened to the rare sight of an eagle in its full majesty.

Till today, those publishers still recount the experience with admiration, a testament to the powerful impression Obi Henry Ajudua-I leaves on all who meet him. Indeed, Igbuzo is a blessed town—blessed with heritage, blessed with personalities, and blessed with a son who has chosen to wear tradition with pride and project it with excellence.

In Obi Henry Ajudua-I, Igbuzo has not just a leader, but a symbol of cultural renaissance, a living proof that African royalty, when rightly worn, stands tall anywhere in the world.

Obi (Dr.) Henry Ajudua-I: Redefining Obiship and Service to Humanity

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Obi (Dr.) Henry Ajudua-I: Redefining Obiship and Service to Humanity

By : Ike Philip Abiagom 

Philanthropy and empowerment have long been woven into the fabric of the Ajudua dynasty, a family widely known for touching lives and uplifting the less privileged. Today, that noble tradition has found renewed strength and global expression in the person of Obi (Dr.) Henry Ajudua-I, Founder and President of Vebron Carre International, USA, whose leadership and generosity continue to inspire hope across communities.

Obi Henry Ajudua-I has not only sustained the philanthropic legacy of his lineage, but has also elevated it to new heights. By taking the revered Obishi title in Igbuzo to an unprecedented level, he has redefined its meaning and relevance in contemporary society. His reign has set a standard never before witnessed in the history of Igbuzo obiship, placing it on par with respected Obi institutions across the Aniocha nation.

An international personality with strong global connections, Obi Ajudua-I has become a worthy ambassador of Igbuzo on the world stage. Through Vebron Carre International, his impact has been deeply felt at home, where his interventions have transformed lives. His initiatives span scholarship awards, free medical outreach programmes, youth empowerment through skill acquisition, and sustained support for the vulnerable.

Currently, his scholarship scheme is offering renewed hope to brilliant but less-privileged secondary school students whose parents struggle to afford their education. These efforts have not only improved individual lives but have also strengthened the social and educational foundation of the Igbuzo community.

Beyond his numerous charitable works, Obi Ajudua-I has changed the long-held perception of obiship in Igbuzo. Traditionally viewed as a title reserved for the elderly, obiship has, under his leadership, been repositioned as a platform for active service, vision, and global relevance. Today, aspiring title holders must rethink their purpose, as Obi Ajudua-I has raised the bar and taken Igbuzo obiship to an internationally admired standard.

Brave, elegant, humble, and endowed with a heart of gold, Obi (Dr.) Henry Ajudua-I embodies leadership with compassion. He is a source of pride to the sons and daughters of Igbuzo, and a shining example of how tradition and modern service can walk hand in hand.

  • As the community looks to the future with hope, many eagerly anticipate the greater heights God will lead him to. Indeed, Igbuzo is proud of its swagger-filled yet selfless Obi—Obi Henry Ajudua-I, a royal father whose reign is defined by love, service, and lasting impact.

Ibusa Annual Football Competition Celebrates 40 Years of Consistency and Community Spirit

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Ibusa Annual Football Competition Celebrates 40 Years of Consistency and Community Spirit

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

The ancient town of Ibusa (Igbuzo) is once again set to come alive with excitement as the Ibusa Annual Football Competition kicks off on December 18, 2025, marking a remarkable milestone—40 unbroken years of sporting excellence, consistency, and community bonding.

What began in 1985 as a modest and seemingly experimental idea has today grown into one of the oldest and most consistent grassroots football competitions in Delta State. Founded by the visionary and sports-loving patriot, Mr. Emmanuel Kwasa Amatokwu, the tournament has stood the test of time, surviving changes in government, economic challenges, and social transitions, yet remaining steadfast in its purpose.

Over the past four decades, the Ibusa Annual Football Competition has become more than just a sporting event. It has evolved into a unifying platform for the people of Igbuzo, especially during the Christmas and New Year holidays, when sons and daughters return home to reconnect, celebrate, and foster communal harmony. Year after year, the competition has provided entertainment, discovered talents, promoted youth engagement, and strengthened the social fabric of the community.

The 2025 edition is particularly special, as it celebrates four decades of uninterrupted consistency—a rare feat in grassroots sports administration. This year’s competition is proudly powered by North West Petroleum Ltd, MTN, and the sons and daughters of Igbuzo, whose support underscores the collective ownership and pride the community has in the tournament.

As the competition takes center stage once again, it is fitting to pause and celebrate Mr. Emmanuel Kwasa Amatokwu, who is not standing alone ,he has the backing of a Sport Exco led by Haji Chukwuuyem Ojeih and the great people of Ibusa.

They vision, resilience, and unwavering commitment have kept this legacy alive for 40 years. What many dismissed as a joke in 1985 has today become a celebrated institution and a shining example of what dedication and consistency can achieve.

Indeed, Igbuzo is proud of Mr. Kwasa and the enduring legacy he has handed down to generations. As the ball rolls off on December 18, the celebration will not only be about football, but about 40 years of perseverance, unity, and community pride—a legacy worth applauding and preserving for the future.

Igbuzo, Anyalabum Youths Protest Marginalisation, Demand Fair Treatment on Asaba–Achalla Igbuzo Road Project

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Igbuzo, Anyalabum Youths Protest Marginalisation, Demand Fair Treatment on Asaba–Achalla Igbuzo Road Project
By: Ike Philip Abiagom
Youths from Igbuzo and Anyalabum communities have raised alarm over what they described as years of marginalisation and neglect by past administrations, calling on Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, to urgently intervene in the ongoing Asaba–Achalla road project.
Speaking during a joint engagement by the Igbuzo Youth Council and Anyalabum Youth Council, the Anyalabum Youth Chairman, Comrade Steve Momah, lamented what he called the consistent short-changing of Anyalabum by successive governments over several decades. While commending the Delta State Government for awarding the Asaba–Achalla road project, Momah expressed deep concern over the manner in which the contractor is allegedly handling the Igbuzo axis of the project.
According to him, a visit to the Asaba end of the road reveals wide, double drainage systems, while the Igbuzo side, particularly around Anyalabum, has no drainage at all. He described the disparity as unacceptable and appealed to Governor Oborevwori to personally visit the site or direct the contractor to correct the imbalance without delay.
Also lending his voice, the Youth Chairman of Achalla-Igbuzo, Comrade Lawrence Nwanze, decried what he described as the total abandonment of Achalla-Igbuzo for many years. He noted that the community has been left without a motorable road, forcing residents to depend largely on motorcycles as their only means of transportation.
“Achalla-Igbuzo is completely cut off, especially during the rainy season. No vehicle can access our community. The contractor stopped work before reaching Achalla about seven years ago, and since then our people have continued to suffer,” Nwaje said. He questioned whether Achalla-Igbuzo is truly considered part of Igbuzo, given the prolonged neglect, and appealed to the governor to rescue the community from what he described as a long-standing calamity.
On the same vein, executives of the Igbuzo Youth Council, led by the Vice President, Barrister Augustine Elikwu, alongside the Secretary General, Comrade Vincent Ollimah, Comrade Emeka Okolo and other officials, lamented the continued neglect of the Achalla-Igbuzo road. They stressed that the road is long overdue for construction and warned that any attempt to deliver substandard work on the Igbuzo side of the Asaba–Achalla project would not be accepted by the youths.
Barrister Elikwu disclosed that the youth council would set up a monitoring committee to closely follow the project and ensure that the contractor does not short-change Igbuzo. He reiterated their demand that the Igbuzo axis be constructed to the same standard as the Asaba side, including the provision of double drainage.
The Igbuzo Youth Council also appealed to Governor Oborevwori to visit the project site in Igbuzo, as he has done in other parts of the state, describing him as an action-oriented and proactive leader.
The youths, however, commended the member representing the constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Frank Esenwah, for his consistent follow-up on the project. They noted that the lawmaker has visited the site several times on his own initiative to ensure that the Igbuzo and Achalla communities benefit fully from the road project as originally planned.

OBI NWAOKOCHA OKEZE FOUNDATION SET TO HOST GRAND IGBUZO PRAISE NIGHT 2025

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OBI NWAOKOCHA OKEZE FOUNDATION SET TO HOST GRAND IGBUZO PRAISE NIGHT 2025
By: Ike Philip Abiagom
The Obi Nwaokocha Okeze Foundation is set to light up Igbuzo with a spirit-filled encounter as it organizes the Igbuzo Praise Night 2025, scheduled for 27th December 2025. The highly anticipated event will hold at the St. Thomas’s College Compound, Umueze Farm Road, Igbuzo, and promises to be one of the most transformative worship gatherings in the state.
The event will be held under the distinguished chief host, Pastor Idowu Daniel Okeze, a renowned philanthropist whose generosity and commitment to spiritual growth continue to uplift countless lives in Igbuzo and beyond. Pastor Okeze, through the foundation, has dedicated the praise night to promoting salvation, renewal, and divine encounter for the entire community.
This year’s edition will feature world-class gospel artistes, including the inspirational Ada Zion, the electrifying Lola Solarin, and other anointed ministers of praise. Attendees will also be blessed with life-changing messages from respected guest speakers such as Barr. Pastor Ben Okoji. Adding colour and excitement to the night, celebrated entertainer Chief Imo will serve as the Master of Ceremony.
According to the organisers, the Igbuzo Praise Night will be “a day of signs, wonders, and miracles,” as the foundation continues to sow seeds that will strengthen faith and build unity in the community.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to attend and experience the overwhelming presence of God.
Come one, come all, and witness the salvation of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Igbuzo will rejoice, destinies will be transformed, and the name of God will be glorified.
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