Indigenous Publishers of Newspapers and Magazines in Delta State, under the auspices of Association of Community Newspaper Publishers of Nigeria, ACNPN Delta State Chapter, has perfected plans to present Award of Excellence to Ex-Niger Delta Agitator and prominent businessman, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo (aka Tompolo) as well as famous politician and Warri Chief, Ayiri Emami.
Delta State Chairman of ACNPN, Comr. Jude Obiemenyego, who made the disclosure in a statement released at Asaba, Tuesday August 27, explained that the decision to honour High Chief Government Ekpemupolo and Chief Ayiri Emami, was reached after careful review of the activities of the duo in the last two years.
According to Comr. Obiemenyego, High Chief Ekpemupolo will be presented with the “Award of Excellence for Identifying and Projecting Competent Human Resources For National Development,” and Chief Ayiri Emami, will be conferred with “The Prime Promoter / Protector of Traditional Heritage in Delta State,”
Comr. Obiemenyego, who noted that ACNPN, was not unmindful of the excellent performance of Tompolo’s security company, Tantita in the protection of critical national oil and gas assets, said, “we also plan to specially recognize the efforts of Emna Fleet Nigeria Limited, owned by Chief Ayiri Emami, Emna Fleet Nigeria Limited, has been doing a lot within the last two years in the fight against crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism, hence the company will be honoured with, “The Most Outstanding Indigenous (Subcontractor) Pipeline Surveillance Company of NNPCL of the year 2024.”
He added: “Members of the association across the length and breadth of Delta State, have finalized arrangements to ensure the award presentation ceremonies, are done in-line with the best professional practices, at separate dates to be made public in a few days and weeks.”
His Royal Majesty,Obi Prof. Epiphany Azinge, the 14th Asagba of Asaba is the kind of king monarchs aspire to be. The popular saying that a golden fish has no hiding place has been proven right with the identification of the sterling qualities of Obi(Professor) Epiphany Azinge, SAN,OON and his benevolent activities towards the advancement of human development. It has also been said that hidden treasures are always found deep down and those who intend to bring them to the fore need to dig deep to bring forth the precious stones that are always coated in dirt.
Prof. Azinge a completely self-made man of substance and one who parades a distinguished, intimidating and robust profile which has been gained within a space of 44 years of his venturing into Law profession could be described as a man who has washed his hands well and deserves to eat with not only his elders but also his fathers.
Obi Epiphany Azinge is ever ready to dedicate his life for the betterment of his beloved Community Asaba. Prof. Azinge who is a Judge at the Commonwealth Arbitral Tribunal sitting in London, where he represents Nigeria and Africa. He is the founder and senior partner at Azinge & Azinge, a law firm in Abuja, the 5th Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies from 2009 and 2014. Obi Azinge’s blood is a blend of eminent son of Ahaba who comes from a lineage of nobles,with himself standing as a modern-day embodiment of the true Ahaba Identity. He is a true son of Asaba who is willing and capable of working with Asaba people to overcome challenges facing the community from lack of adequate infrastructure, youth unemployment, healthcare deficiency, to educational shortcomings.
A cursory look at the life of this esteemed ruler is proof that when there are kings who are not limited in wisdom, power, goodness and love for subjects, then monarchy would be the best of all systems of government. During his traditional oath of office at the Opechi as the 14th Asagba(King)of Asaba on 24th of August 2024,multitudes of Asaba citizens throng home from around the world to celebrate and felicitate with their beloved king. They do this not out of duty or enforced obligation, but out of deep love for their king and land.
But Azinge’s path to the throne was not one paved with velvet and inlaid with a thornless bed of flowers; no, it was rough, the journey was tough, and the experience could sometimes be bitter, as with that of men with great destinies. But these only served as stepping stones to his future, unanimously given, the throne.
It would be remembered that even though Obi Prof. Epiphany Azinge had earlier been nominated along with nine others by the Asagba-in-Council
According to him, beyond the already established processes came another letter from the Okpala-Uku nominating ten candidates according to their grades.
They are: Prof. Epiphany Azinge (90%) Ogbueshi Anthony Konwea (75%) Chief Ikechukwu Ashiofu (74%) Prof Onwuka Emmanuel (72%) Ogbueshi Chiedu Onwuegbuzia (62%) Ogbueshi Chinyelugo Nwajei (60%) Ogbueshi C. R. Esealuka (59%) Ogbueshi Ikechukwu Maduemezia (50%) and Obi Ikechukwu Nwajei (Nil).
The Ochendo said the second letter suggested that all the candidates should be considered and directed members of the two frontline age grades in the selection process; Otu Ihaza and Ichiokwa, from each of the five Ebos to meet with the Obis and Olinzeles from their quarters at different locations within the palace to elect the candidate of their choice.
Announcing the result, Dr. Edozien said: “By the authority vested in me as the Ochendo Asagba and the authority vested in me by the Traditional Rulers and Chiefs Edict, 1979,I hereby pronounce Prof. Epiphany Azinge as the 14th Asagba of Asaba designate.
Obi Prof. Azinge great destiny prevailed and the kingmakers unanimously selected him in conformity with the custom and tradition of the Asaba community, the provisions of the Traditional Rulers and Chiefs Edict of 1979.
But in the midst of all these, he had many documented and undocumented trials and travails. Looking back,
Obi Azinge’s extraordinary destiny serves history in preservation. His is a life to be wished for, a legacy that must be preserved, and a story that must continue to be told for generations to come.
Not many kings want their life story in the public domain, instead, as second-in-command to the gods, they prefer that air of mystery to ensure that their rule remains absolute and their personal affairs secret. But Obi Prof. Azinge is a different kind of king – an erudite. He authored his biography, laying his cards bare and ensuring that many can learn the lessons of history through his life’s story.
As he ascend the throne as the 14th Asagba of Asaba , it is only fitting that one should say ‘Nna Agu! Long may the crown sit on the head, long may the shoes fit the wearer, and long may he reign.” But in prayer, many would secretly say to the creator “May I be as great as the king, Obi Prof. Epiphany Azinge, the Asagba of Asaba Land.
A Political party making progress in this new era must break away from the old order by electing a young,loyal party man with character, integrity, and competency to emerge as the next local Government Party Chairman. Emotional intelligence and other essential skill-sets are a must-have for this crucial role
it is time for a new generation of leaders to step up and take the reins. Oshimili North PDP got it right this time by electing a consensus candidate in the person of Hon Joseph. Ijeh aka Sir Joe who can serve as a bridge between the old and the young and who can simply understand the needs and concerns of young people and work to address them. Together, the young and old can build a brighter future for Delta State.
Oshimili North’s Peoples’ Democratic Party needs a young, vibrant, and charismatic leader to step up and make a difference. Inclusive political participation is crucial for building stable and peaceful societies, and youth active contributions can bring democratic values to life.
The emerges of Hon Joseph Ijeh as the new Oshimii North Local PDP chairman did not surprise any PDP member because the party had earlier proposed for a a young, vibrant, and charismatic leader ahead of the Local Government Congress of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP which took place cross the country last week, Newsbreeze can authoritatively report that a new local Government Chairman of PDP has emerged for Oshimili North.
Hon Joseph Ijeh emerged as a consensus candidate after consultations ahead of the official congress scheduled for last week. we all know that Sir Ijeh is the right man for the job and he possesses the right credentials to lead the party at this time of engaging peace and harmony, maintaining that it takes capacity to sustain peace and unity in a party that harbours diverse personal interests.
The new indefatigable chairman Of Oshimili North, Hon Joseph Ijeh was sworn in among other PDP local government chairmen at the state PDP party Secretariat in Asaba. Expectedly, the cream of PDP party leadership and great personalities like Chief Fred Ajudua and his wife Princess Pat Ajudua, Hon Dr Austin Obidi, Chairman,Delta State Contributory Health Commission,Mr Luka Igbonoba,EA to the Executive Governor of Delta State and among others turned out to honour him at a grand reception in Ibusa.
Congratulations to our new indefatigable Chairman for the position well deserved and it is the fruit of Loyalty……….
HRM Obi(Prof.)Epiphany Azinge (SAN,OON) Asagba of Asaba
Today marks the dawn of a new era in Asaba land as HRM Obi Prof. Epiphany Azinge, SAN,OON took the traditional oath of office at the Opechi as the 14th Asagba(King)of Asaba. According to Asaba tradition he will henceforth be addressed and referred to by his new dynastic name Nna Agu!Nna Agu!!Nna Agu!!!,It is worthy to note that he seizes to be greeted “Obi igwe” henceforth.
The final traditional oath taking was witnessed by Ndi Obi, Olinzeles, Ogbueshi’s, Okwulagwe,Umuada’s and the entire Asaba Community to signify a new era of traditional king in Asaba.
With the peaceful emergence of HRM Obi Prof. Epiphany Azinge, SAN,OON all the five ‘ebos’ (villages) voted overwhelmingly for him, it showed how acceptable he is to the entire Asaba Kingdom. The traditional crowning of HRM Obi Prof. Epiphany Azinge as the 14th Asagba of Asaba can only consolidate on its position as first among equals in the comity of traditional rulers in Nigeria.
It was a joyful mood in Asaba today as a new king has finally emerged since the seat became vacant after the demise of the 13th Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Obi Prof Chike Edozie, who joined his forefathers at the age of 99years on February 7, 2024.
The Indigenous People of Asaba completely shutdown the popular Ogbeogonogo market as honour and respect for the new king. it was a celebration galore for all sons and daughters of Asaba,as former Director General of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, Obi(Prof) Epiphany Azinge, SAN, ascend the throne as the 14th Asagba of Asaba.
The people of Umudaike quarter, the ancestral home of the newly Asagba-designated in Asaba have cried out for government’s intervention on their road which had been abandoned for years.
The Umudaike Community was worried over the deplorable state of the road and had written several letters to the state and local government about the condition of the road but no response has come from the government, adding that the poor state of the road has hampered economic activities of people.
Speaking yesterday, Comrade Okafor Anthony confided to Newsbreeze Magazine that the Umudaike Village road project started under the administration of former governor, Ifeanyi Okowa and for some years now the road is in a deplorable condition and abandoned.
Newly Asagba-designated Umudike Street in Asaba
We have made several attempts to draw government attention to the deplorable condition of the road but to no avail. With the emergence of Obi Prof. Epiphany Azinge,SAN,OON as the 14th Asagba (King) of Asaba designated, let hope that the state government will give urgent attention to the long abandoned Umudaike road project because the road has become a problem to the people of Umudaike and Asaba Community in general.
“We are begging the government to listen to our cry and ensure that the contractors return to site immediately. Whatever is delaying the project should be made available on time before the official coronation of our new Asagba-Designated,” he said.
MVI_0001Another youth, who identified himself as Amechi said that the contractor only poured sand on the road without making efforts to provide a drainage system. If they will do this road at all, they need to do the drainage first, water gushing out whenever there’s rainfall causes serious hazard to the people.
“When we challenged the contractors, they complained the ministry did not pay them for drainage. The road has become a ‘headache’ to the Umudaike community who would have preferred it been left the way it was before construction.
We are appealing to Governor Sheriff to re-award the road project to ameliorate the suffering of our people now that the newly Asagba-Designated Obi Prof. Epiphany Azinge,SAN,OON is from Umudaike Village.
The Nigerian Thoracic Society says that, as of 2019, 15 million Nigerians were asthmatic while a nationwide study put the number at 13 million – one of the highest rates in Africa. With less than accurate data in Nigeria, because those in rural areas have limited access to quality healthcare or medical tracking, the number could be even higher and more than 10 million Nigerians have asthma and about three-quarters of them risked dying due to poor asthma control.
The high rate of Asthmatic attack in Nigeria as revealed by the reports of the world renowned agencies became a source of worry for Igbuzo born Philanthropist, Pastor Idowu Okeze, the founder of CIDO ASTHMA FOUNDATION .
“I sat down and asked myself what can be done to reduce the high rate of Asthmatic attack and to help these patients who don’t have money to carter for their healthcare, that is why we decided to build this free specialist hospital(CIDO ASTHMA FOUNDATION),” he said.
As it stands, hope of a better healthcare seems to have come the way of the poor and less privileged in Nigeria, especially those in Ibusa, and its environs with the construction and inauguration of a Free Specialist Asthmatics Hospital by the Pastor Idowu Okeze.
Pastor Okeze fulfiled his dream by building a world class Asthmatic Hospital,CIDO ASTHMA FOUNDATION in Ibusa,Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta state to improve the health care sector of the country. After many decades of medical tourism and visits to the overseas by many Deltans and Nigerians in general that amounts into millions of naira on a yearly basis, a decline might be expected to set in as the CIDO ASTHMA FOUNDATION has been unveiled in Ibusa,Delta State.
The (CIDO ASTHMA FOUNDATION) Free Specialist Hospital inaugurated on August 17TH,2024 has automatically joined the league of private hospitals in the country to help to address the high rate of asthmatics attack in Nigeria, but with direct focus on the less privileged and down trodden in Ibusa at present.
According to founder of CIDO ASTHMA FOUNDATION,Pastor Idowu Okeze“ a philanthropist, who loves giving back to the society,to help his Community, said the world class Asthmatic Hospital is 100% free of charge for all Nigerians, irrespective of where you come from, The multi-million Naira hospital is set to be an investment that will bring more advancement in medical sciences in automated Asthmatic procedures and critical care management in Nigeria.
Okeze also noted that in grand scheme of things, the hospital is expected to become a teaching hospital that will be a grooming ground for talented medical practitioners in Nigeria and create employment opportunities for youth in Ibusa and its environs.
According to reports, the new facility is equipped with modern oxygen beds, high-definition CT scan, automated ventilators, Digital Cath Lab, state of the art theaters and other world class equipment that are used in major surgeries and Asthmatic treatments.
Pastor Okeze has also called for support from government, individuals and international organisations to replicates the free hospital in every nook and cranny of the country to guarantee easy and free access to health for the less privileged people.
The stool of the Asabga of Asaba became vacant following the demise of the late His Royal Majesty, Asagba Professor Joseph Chike Edozien,CFR,JP the longest-reigning king in the history of the town.
On Sunday, the Asaba traditional council, the Asagba-in-Council, announced the emergence of a foremost legal luminary the former Director General of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, a Professor of law, the Okilolo of Asaba ,Obi Prof. Epiphany Azinge, SAN,as the 14th Asagba (King) of Asaba designate.
A statement by Most Distinguished Senator Peter Onyelukachukwu Nwaoboshi(SPON),said the announcement followed the long-drawn processes specified under the law. The Ochendo Ahaba (Regent), Dr. Anthony Edozien, announced the result of the selection process in line with the Traditional Rulers and Chiefs Edict of 1979, applicable to Delta State.
“Nwaoboshi congratulates the newly Asagba-elect on his ascension to the throne as the Asagba designate”.
Senator Nwaoboshi pointed out that Asagbaship in Ahabaland is a call to service. In fact, it should be seen as a ministry. “It is indeed a major one for the development of humanity. Agu, I wish you very well and may you live gloriously long,Nwaoboshi concluded.
Senator Nwaoboshi congratulate you once again and wish you the best for the journey ahead.
On Sunday, the Asaba traditional council, the Asagba-in-Council, announced the emergence of a foremost legal luminary the former Director General of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, a Professor of law, holds the traditional chieftaincy title of the Okilolo of Asaba ,(Obi)Prof. Epiphany Azinge, SAN,as the 14th Asagba (King) of Asaba designate.
The Asagba-in-Council announced his selection as the most qualified among the 10 contenders in the race, who hail from Ugbomanta quarters and is to produce the next Asagba after Prof. Chike Edozien, who had since joined his ancestors.
The Ochendo of Asaba, Anthony Edozien, made the announcement on behalf of the Council and said the selection process was in accordance with the Traditional Rulers and Chiefs Edict of 1979, which applies to Delta State.
Mr Azinge, a former director general of the Nigeria Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, was selected from a poll of 10 contenders to the royal stool. Among the contenders were Tony Ogugia Konwea, Emmanuel Onwuka, a professor, and Chinedu Esealuka.
A cross section of Asaba indigenes both at home and in diaspora were united in their clamour that the next Asagba of Asaba should be accessible, accommodating, cosmopolitan and exude uncommon affection for the people. He must evince the statesman like virtues of wisdom and temperance. And more importantly, the process of selecting the (Obi)Prof. Epiphany Azinge, SAN,as the 14th Asagba (King) of Asaba designate was fair, transparent and equitable.
Pastor Idowu Okeze knows that when Ibusa Community honestly ask themselves which persons in their lives means the most to them, they often find that it is those who, instead of giving advice, solutions, or cures, have rather chosen to share people’s pain and touch their wounds with a warm and tender hand. let us not be satisfied with just giving money. Money is not enough, money can be gotten, but they need hearts to love them”. So, spread your love everywhere you go.
Generosity is giving more than you can. You can give without loving, but you can never love without giving. Pastor Idowu Okeze is not an ethnic bigot; he loves and cares for all. His testament as light of God is every day an inch to better a life or more.
You cannot meet Pastor Idowu Okeze with sorrow and return in the same mood, his smiles welcomes you, his pockets sustain audience and send you home. Many times, the ever ready-help giver leader of the igbuzo has halted his entourage on the road to give help to the people.
Philanthropist abound all over the world. Sometimes, persons blessed by almighty God will decide to touch the lives of the less privileged in order to give back to the society that made them what they are and whom they are.
For much of human history, the idea of ownership and property was non-existent. Most resources were shared in the community. Philanthropy arose with the advent of capitalism. Humans struggled for wealth. Some succeeded. Some failed. The world became divided between the haves and the have not. Those who have more than enough sometimes try to share their excess with those who do not have enough.
Pastor Idowu Okeze, is a Nigerian passionate about impacting the society though acts of immense humanity. He is an example of the ‘Haves’ of the society, those who not just that they have more than enough but they are passionate about sharing their wealth with others, those imbued with a burning desire to touch the poor and less privileged. He is a Pastor who has over the years invested so much in human capital development and philanthropy, through which he has impacted several lives and communities.
The man popularly called Idowu Okeze has over the years pursued a lot of philanthropist endeavours, targeted at lifting the less privileged out of poverty and making the world a better place for all. He has committed substantial funds to various humanitarian causes and charitable organizations. His considerable investment in human capital has led to the mentoring and grooming of hundreds of youths to be self-sufficient and the creation of opportunities to those in need of a viable platform to thrive in life through different empowerments.
Sometime last year,residents of Ezenei area of Asaba in Delta State,had a life transforming experience as a result of the provision of electricity to them, many did not believe this. For one year,the communities that made up the area had lived without electricity and this contributed in no small measure in hampering growth in such places,they cried to him and behold Pastor Idown Okeze came along with his heart of gold and sense of magnanimity,the fortunes of the people grew.Pastor Okeze gave a huge amount of money to help restore electricity there (Ezenei Avenue-Asaba).
Through a charity organisation, Obi Okeze Foundation, which he wholly finances, the Ibusa-born Philanthropist has sponsored a private execution of community projects, offered free scholarships to many indigent persons from primary to tertiary level education, provided shelter for many homeless families and sponsored free health care projects. The foundation strives to promote love, save lives, improve global health, groom and mentor youths, and collaborate with other civil society and human rights organizations to alleviate poverty, health challenges, support education, improve living conditions of individuals and promote community development. The foundation with some partners has pledged to embrace and enhance humanity in diverse ways by consistent donations to philanthropy.
Pastor Idowu Okeze is a great pillar to the youths in Ibusa Community,He is a notable philanthropist whose humanitarian acts and deeds have brought considerable succour to many. He has also won many awards and honours.
Pastor Idowu Okeze is a blessing to this generation, his passion for human capital development is unparalleled.
SUCCOUR came the way of the people of Ibusa in Oshimili North Local Government Council of Delta State as one of their sons,Pastor Idowu Okeze, put smiles on their faces yesterday. His Royal Majesty,Obi Prof. Louis Nwoboshi,the Obuzor of Ibusa, yesterday commissioned state-of-the-art hospital with cutting-edge technology,CIDO Asthma Foundation(Asthmatic patients Hospital), 2.5 kilometer-long roads(Uzo Ugbo Umueze and Uzo Mmili Roads in Umueze-Ibusa.
Pastor Okeze, renowned for his philanthropy also built two other Community-Commissioned projects of the day include the recently constructed fence of St. Thomas College, Ibusa, which he funded, the renovated Principal’s Office with equipment as well, and a block of classrooms in the school that have newly disclosed furniture. Utilizing the occasion, the Idowu Okeze team also inaugurated the recently constructed State of the Art Civic Centre Obi Nwaokocha J.Okeze Event Center, which is outfitted with cutting-edge amenities.
Speaking while commissioning the Projects, HRM Obi Prof Louis Nwaoboshi,the Obuzor of Ibusa praised Pastor Okeze for his unwavering commitment to the development of Ibusa and Delta State at large. He highlighted the philanthropist, while also commending his efforts in transforming the community through various infrastructural projects, describing him as a beacon of hope and inspiration for others.
The Obuzor of Ibusa, while noting that government alone cannot develop everywhere at the same time, urged other well-meaning individuals to emulate the Okeze’s philanthropic spirit and contribute to the growth and progress of their communities. He appealed to other affluent citizens in the community to seek out other areas to assist in the development of Ibusa.
Earlier in his remarks, Pastor Okeze explained that his motivation to embark on these projects stemmed from his desire to give back to his community and improve the quality of life for its residents. He further expressed his gratitude to the HRM Obi Prof Louis Nwaoboshi, the Obuzor of Ibusa-led administration in Ibusa for her visible impacts and efforts in propelling the developmental wheel of the town, while also assuring of continued efforts and support to help move the town forward.
In addition to his infrastructural projects, Pastor Okeze has made significant strides in the area of empowerment, as he recently gave out 50 tricycles and an additional financial empowerment for 510 person with (one hundred thousand naira )₦100,000 each as cash empowerment in Ibusa community.
In their separate interviews with this Newsbreeze reporter, some of the community members lauded Pastor Okeze’s philanthropic endeavours, noting that his contributions and those of his wife have brought about significant positive changes in Igbuzo, hailing him for being a true son of the soil.
Aside the community members, the event was also witnessed by many dignitaries who joined voice to cheer up benefactors, Okeze and his wife for yet another batch of philanthropic gestures and selfless services to humanity.
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