The Obi of Idumuje Unor in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State, HRM Obi Charles Chukwunwike Anyasi III, has applauded the development efforts of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori as the community marked its annual OGANIHU cultural festival.
At the grand finale of the festival, witnessed 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 indigenes a sense of belonging.
Obi Anyasi III highlighted the Justice Chukwudumebi Oseji Memorial Road, recently completed in honour of the community’s illustrious son and departed Supreme Court Justice.
He also commended the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) “for its intervention in expanding the road network in Idumuje Kingdom” and said the move “had significantly enhanced connectivity and strengthened socio-economic activities in the area”.
On the importance of the Oganihu Festival, the traditional ruler, who was accompanied by his wife and palace chiefs, described it as “a vital expression of the history, values and enduring growth of the community,” which had existed for centuries.
The monarch emphasised that beyond cultural preservation, the festival serves as a powerful platform for fostering unity, peace and conviviality among the people of Idumuje-Unor, while reinforcing their shared identity and celebrating the continuity of their heritage.
He equally expressed joy for the restoration of Aniocha North State House of Assembly Constituency 2, comprising Idumuje and Odiani clans and said it would bring accelerated development to the people.
In a welcome address, the chairman of the 2026 Oganihu organising committee and the Uwolo of Idumuje-unor, Chief Afamefuna Samuel Obanor, said it is a festival of thanksgiving to God Almighty and celebration of culture, peace and happiness among sons and daughters of the community.
Other chiefs who spoke on the socio- cultural significance of the festival as a unifying fiesta 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, Dr Norbert Chiazor and former Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State chapter, described the Oganihu festival as a central feature of the cultural life of the people, expressing gratitude to the king for leading with dignity.
Youths drawn from the various quarters of the community brought colour, energy and vibrancy to the occasion through a spirited cultural display competition. Imeogbe Village emerged victorious, with Ogbeakwu finishing as runner-up, while Okwunye and Idumuobu secured third and fourth positions, respectively. Atuma youths, however, did not participate in the competition.
The high point of the Oganihu Festival was the traditional homage by the chiefs before the Idumuje-Unor monarch ,as the royal court came agog with dances and music, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the community.
