The Obi of Idumuje-Unor in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State, HRM Obi Charles Chukwunwike Anyasi III, has commended the development efforts of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori as the community celebrated its annual Oganihu Cultural Festival.
Speaking at the grand finale of the festival, attended by sons and daughters of Idumuje-Unor from home and the diaspora, the monarch said the Oborevwori administration had improved infrastructure in the community and given the people a greater sense of belonging.
Obi Anyasi III specifically highlighted the recently completed Justice Chukwudumebi Oseji Memorial Road, named in honour of the community’s illustrious son and former Supreme Court Justice.
He also commended the Niger Delta Development Commission for its intervention in expanding the road network in Idumuje Kingdom, noting that the development had significantly improved connectivity and strengthened socio-economic activities in the area.
On the significance of the Oganihu Festival, the traditional ruler, who was accompanied by his wife and palace chiefs, described it as a vital expression of the community’s history, values and enduring growth.
He said the festival, which had existed for centuries, went beyond cultural preservation, serving as a platform for promoting unity, peace and conviviality among the people of Idumuje-Unor while reinforcing their shared identity and celebrating the continuity of their heritage.
The monarch also expressed delight over the restoration of the Aniocha North State House of Assembly Constituency II, comprising the Idumuje and Odiani clans, saying the development would bring accelerated growth to the people.
In his welcome address, Chairman of the 2026 Oganihu Organising Committee and Uwolo of Idumuje-Unor, Chief Afamefuna Samuel Obanor, described the festival as an occasion of thanksgiving to God Almighty and a celebration of the community’s culture, peace and happiness.
Other chiefs who spoke on the socio-cultural significance of the festival as a unifying event included Chief Austin Lazarus Asimonye, Ojichukwueje of Idumuje-Unor; Chief Christian Onyenibeji, Ebubechukwu; Chief Ikediashi Chukwudi, the Odogwu; and Chief Jideonwor Okafor, Ogiso.
A prominent indigene of the community and former Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Delta State Council, Dr Norbert Chiazor, described the Oganihu Festival as a central feature of the cultural life of the people.
Chiazor also expressed gratitude to the monarch for his leadership and for sustaining the cultural heritage of the community.
Youths from various quarters of the community added colour and vibrancy to the occasion through a spirited cultural display competition.
Imeogbe Village emerged victorious, while Ogbeakwu finished as runner-up. Okwunye and Idumuobu came third and fourth respectively.
Atuma youths, however, did not participate in the competition.
The high point of the festival was the traditional homage paid by the chiefs to the Idumuje-Unor monarch, as the royal court came alive with dances and music showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the community.
