Preamble:
I seize this opportunity to appreciate everyone who has contributed to the ongoing discourse concerning whether Awka North in general - and Awba Ofemili in particular - is part of the Omabala region.
As with every matter involving identity, history, and culture, the arguments have been balanced and rich, shaped largely by individual perception, understanding, and exposure.
Fostering understanding:
I was particularly impressed by the incisive, thoughtful, and educative contributions of our erudite sons - Comrade Fred Nwanna and Ozo Remmy Nweke. Your clarity of thought and depth of insight have illuminated many grey areas and helped foster greater understanding.
Kudos also to our proactive PG, Chief Fidelis Chinedu Mebene, for the timely reminder through the Omabala Cultural Day jingle. This discourse was sparked by the notification I posted above. It's well.
Importance of historical awareness:
To our brother, Edu Chris, and others who hold strong their dissenting sentiments, I commend your perspective. However, I humbly believe the gap we are dealing with here is primarily one of historical awareness and regional exposure.
Some contributors have already shed light on the origin, culture, tradition, and geographical placement of Awba Ofemili, offering concrete reasons for our inclusion, affinity, and historical alignment with the Omabala region.
Let me, therefore, add a few clarifications and reminders.
On Nomenclature and Identity:
First, it is important to correct a long-standing misrepresentation: the proper name of the region is OMABALA, not OMAMBALA. This correction was officially settled nearly 11 years ago by cultural custodians and scholars of the region.
Secondly, Omabala region has historically been known by several other names, each reflecting its deep cultural roots and socio-political significance - such as "Olu Na Adagbe", "Igbo Adaogbenye (or Igbo Adagbe)", and "Amakom", among others.
These names have all been used at various times to describe the same culturally cohesive region, now formally embraced as Omabala.
Cultural and geographical affinity:
If we take a cursory but honest look at the culture, language, festivals, and traditional institutions of the people of Awka North, it becomes clear that our natural affinity lies more with the people of Ayamelum, Anambra East, Anambra West, and Oyi, than with Awka itself.
We may currently belong to Awka "Bloc"- whether North, East or West - for governmental and administrative convenience, but in truth and spirit, our umbilical cord is tied to the Omabala region.
Our worldview, our ancestral mineral resources, our festivals, and our traditional leadership structures all bear stronger resemblance to those of the Omabala peoples than to the central Awka cultural bloc.
And you can quote me wrong - if you wish.
The role of Omabala Union:
For those who may not yet grasp the significance of the Omabala Union, allow me to emphasize that it is the apex socio-cultural, non-governmental, nonprofit umbrella body that brings together the six LGAs of this region:
Anambra East, Anambra West, Ayamelum, Awka North, Dunukofia, and Oyi.
Although the Union was moribund for some years - largely due to how it was managed during the tenure of the late Igwe Odegbo of Nteje - it has now been reinvigorated, restructured, and energized to meet the evolving needs of the people. It is now poised to take its rightful place among similar regional organizations, such as the Old Aguata Union (OAU).
Happily, Awka North is adequately represented in this new structure. I, Pastor Nick Ibeh, serve as the Administrative Secretary, overseeing the day-to-day activities of the Union. Also, Hon. Mrs. Rebecca Udorji (Paragon), an illustrious daughter of Awka North, serves as the National Financial Secretary.
Omabala Cultural Day: A Celebration of Unity:
The Union is organizing its maiden cultural day celebration on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at the Otuocha Township Stadium by 10:00 am. This grand event is expected to feature representatives from all 6 LGAs and the 50 communities that make up Omabala region.
All necessary logistics will be provided to facilitate participation. Be assured that Awba Ofemili will be present in full regalia and strength to showcase our rich cultural heritage. I therefore invite all our sons and daughters to come out en masse to support this historic event.
Our PG, Chief Fidelis C. Mebene, will further address our people and give detailed briefings in the coming days.
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In conclusion:
Let it be known - and let no one be in doubt - Awka North is an integral part of the Omabala belt. We are not outsiders. We are not guests. We are Umunne - bound by blood, by history, by geography, and by culture.
To those still unsure, I encourage you to keep an open mind. In four years, when the fruits of this renewed Union begin to manifest, you will look back at this message and understand its truth and urgency.
May our land prosper.
May our people unite.
May Omabala rise to its full potential.
Thank you and God bless.
*Contributed by Pastor Nick Ibeh (Nwachinemelu), Admin. Secretary, Omabala Union to Awba-Ofemili ChatRoom 26/9/25
2 comments:
Are exploding uzo Uwani and Eziagu Ezu river stated from Eziagu
Awka north was formally known by Ezu local government so we are not as the same as Awka itself Ezu and Omabala are same people.
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