SCANDAL ROCKS ASCETA

SCANDAL ROCKS ASCETA
…low moral tone
alleged high handedness
computers/laptops looted
funds diverted


A serious scandal is said to be rocking the Abia State College of Education (Technical) Arochukwu, ASCETA, over the disappearance of computers/ laptops donated to the tertiary institution by some corporate bodies.
A number of computers, monitors and other accessories were donated by Nigerian Communication Commission, NCC, to ASCETA in 2010 and 2011. The Petroleum Technology Development Fund, PTDF, through Zinox Computers, an acclaimed Information Communication Technology, ICT, outfit also made donation of IT items to the institution.
While NCC made a donation of 220 laptops, PTDF in November 2010 donated 18 different items of IT materials, including Hp ML 350 E 380 Century EU service guard core 3.4 GH2 Processor, HP Compaq 5008 MT 2.8 GH2 Intel Processor, 2 GB RAM DDR HP Laserjet P2055DN Printer, RJ 45 10M CAT PATCH CABLE. Total quantity of the items donated by PTDF was 196.
The IT items were donated to enhance quality learning in technical education since the school has bias in technology. Sadly though, some of these items were said to have developed wings to fly away from the School of Computer Education headed by Chioma Uchenna, Dean, School of Computer Education. However, some top management staff of ASCETA have been fingered in the conspiracy to deny students the opportunity of the good intentions of the donors.

For instance, five sets of computers were seen being carried away in the college bus on 13th June, 2011. In the log book of the security development, under the caption, “INCIDENT REPORT”, ASCETA’s security man on duty on 13th June, 2011, stated, “At about 1805 hrs the Collage Bus ETF Project was apprehended at the College gate carrying five (5) sets of computer (complete sets with five (5) tables, on interrogation they issued to us a written note tagged (Gate Pass) and signed by one Works Engineer Ezeagwula
The report continued, “At these (sic) juncture security officers entered the bus and confirmed that it was five(5) Computers set and its tables were being carried away from the computer…… this 13th day of June 2011. Mr. Ojukwu Ugbor Abraham, the New registrar was inside the Bus, the driver and one other unidentified person”.
Earlier in November 2010, provost of ASCETA was reported to have authorized the dean of Computer Education, Mr. Chioma Uchenna to remove 10 (ten) brand new desk tops.
The security officer who took over duties at the gate on Monday, 29/11/2010 reported thus, “At about 4pm today being Monday 29th November 2010, The provost Dr. C.N Nwamuo ordered the Dean School of Computer Education Mr. Chioma Uchenna to carry out 10 brond (sic) new desktop. According to the provost, he said that the Governor of Abia State ask him to bring (10) brand new desktop with CPU and key board inside”
Even during unholy working hours some senior officials of the institution would come into the school to remove one property or the other, giving reasons that “authorities directed.”
“At about 0735 hours on 20th August 2010”, a security man reported in the log book, “The secretary to the Provost Abia State Collage of Education (Tech) Aro came to the security main gate office with Bakasi Troops he reported to us that the provost sent them to come and collect something in his office, which their (sic ) did so”
The question concerned citizens are asking is where were these computers taken to? Some sources say the computers ended up in business centres in and outside Arochukwu owned by some top officials of the institution. Some were also said to have been sent to ASCETA Liaison office in Umuahia, Abia State capital, while others were kept by some individual staff of the college.
But one close aide of the provost who requested not to be quoted in print dismissed the allegations as “wild rumour” by rumour mongers. “It is normal for one who does not like you to always fabricate false stories against you in order to score cheap points,” he told THE OMU ARO, implying that the rumour mongers are the enemies of ASCETA
He dismissed the rumour that ASCETA received 600 computers, as being peddled by uninformed persons, but added that what the college received from NCC was 220 which came in batches of 110 each in 2010 and 2011.
This aide disclosed that the first set of computers numbering 110 were sold to staff of the institution at the cost of N15, 000 each during Professor Ernest Nkemakolam’s tenure”.
He further explained that the school’s governing council members quarreled with management over not being accommodated in the first batch’s distribution. Consequently, he added, part of the second batch of 110 were given out council member and Abia State government officials as Public Relations gifts (PR), stressing that there is a balance of 60 which is intact, adding that there are sufficient computers in the computer laboratory to go round the students.
He also confirmed that the NCC had sent one of its officials to investigate the allegation of misappropriation of computers/laptops donated to the school by the Commission. Continuing, he said the NCC was satisfied with explanations offered by the institution, even as the official was shown the remaining 60 computers.
The ASCETA official said much as he was not holding brief for Dr. Nwamuo, the provost, ASCETA would not succumb to cheap blackmail insisting that apart from the 11 computers stolen from the school’s store, there had never been any illegal or unauthorized removal of computers from the school.
The computer laptop scandal is one of the ills bedeviling ASCETA since the change of leadership baton between Professor Ernest Nkemakolam, immediate-past provost and Dr. C N Nwamuo, the incumbent provost.
ASCETA witnessed unprecedented students unrest/demonstration over hike in school fees, a demonstration that resulted in wanton destruction of college property for which students were levied N5, 000 each. The levy was said to have raked in about N15m, yet no visible repairs were seen to be effected on the said damaged property.
Student population which rose to about 3000 during Prof Nkemakolam’s tenure fell to less than 2000 and has further slumped pitifully to less than 1000 currently. Staff strength is said to be at par with student population, a situation described by a staff member as “a laughing matter”,
There have been allegations of victimization of ‘disloyal’ staff leading to exodus of qualified staff. This is even made worse by the appointment of un-confined and inexperienced officers as Heads of Departments over and above senior and more experienced staff. This, it is believed led to low productively among staff as the more qualified ones refuse to take orders from them ‘inferior’ officers

For instance, in the School of Education, whereas there are four PhD holders, a part time officer who holds MED is appointed Dean of the school. Similarly, in the Department of Primary/Early Child Education, an MED holder is appointed HOD in place of an officer who holds a PHD in Primary and Early Childhood Education.
Also, in the school of Arts and Social Sciences, a first degree holder that has spent less than 2 years in the college as a part time lecturer is appointed HOD over and above permanent and superior lectures. This, it was gathered, is a compensation for protecting the leadership of the institution on plagiarism charges. This favoured HOD is even said to be occupying the Deputy Provost’s office presently, while the Deputy Provost is without an office.
The range of inefficiency or deliberate action to victimize certain lecturers appears endless. In other School/Departments, unqualified lecturers are appointed to boss their betters/superiors.
In the department of Languages/Religion/Social Studies where there are three MSC holders in Economics, a first degree holder who has not spent up to two years in the college is appointed HOD. So also in the School of Science which has no departments but headed by a Computer Scientist who ought to be put in the School of Computer Education.
School of Computer Education is headed by a first degree holder in Physics even as allegations of forged certificates are hanging on his neck.
The school administration doesn’t seem to appreciate the economic stress the students of the college are going through. The new policy whereby all students must stay in the hostels with hike in feeds is seen as another money-making venture but which has economic devastating effect on the students.
The Science Technology and Education Research Centre in the heart of SCETA, built By THALIA FOUNDATION, a Non Governmental Organization headed by an Aro icon, Mazi Engr. Matthias Okoro to boost technological education in ASCETA is reported to have been locked and closed down due to the non-cooperation of ASCETA authorities. One therefore wonders how students will acquire quality technical/scientific education in the absence of practical facilities.
Tongues continue to wag over the destination of the proceeds from the sale/lease of part of the ASCETA compound to Globacom, a giant communication company for the building of a mast. Speculations are that the proceeds which run into millions of naira were diverted to private pockets.
The fortunes of ASCETA established through the efforts of Arochukwu citizenry seems to be going down on a steady progress, necessitating some concerned citizens to call for immediate look into the administration of college.
THE OMU ARO 2010 Xmas edition had in its editorial entitled, “SAVING ASCETA” lamented that “The sweat of the common Aro person in the retention of ASCETA in Arochukwu will come to naught if drastic measures are not taken to restore administrative sanity in the institution. “Hence it called on Nzuko Arochukwu and all stakeholders to wake up and face the challenges posed by the not-too-comfortable situation in ASCETA.





TEACHER AKATA BOWS AT 70

A Teacher par excellence, Mazi Monday Daniel Akata has passed on. Mazi Akata popularly addressed as Teacher Akata or Ade-de attended Qua Iboc Mission Primary School, Ikot Osukpong from 1948 to 1955.
In 1961, he was admitted into Northern Annang County Teacher Training College, Utu Etim Ekpo for Teachers Grade II Certificate.
In 1992, he was admitted into Advance Teacher Training College Uyo, where he obtained his National Certificate in Education (N.C.E)
In 1978, he was admitted into Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, for his Bachelors of Arts Degree in Education which he completed in 1981 and was posted to Aggrey Memorial Secondary School, Arochukwu, where he rendered his one year National Youth Service.
Due to his devotion to duty and proficiency in his teaching subjects and other assignments, he was reinstated and Elder J.N. Oji made it possible for him to be posted to Aggrey Memorial College, Arochukwu in 1982 where he secured and rose to the rank of Principal Class II and later retired from active service in 1994.
He will always be remembered for typing business at Amaikpe, Obinkita Arochukwu.
He is survived by four children and wife, Gladys Mgboro Akata.



Buried.

Nnanna, Harry A.P., 85, at Ndianiche Arondizuogu, Imo State. Son of Late Peter Nwana of OMENUKO fame, Harry Nwanna was a member of the radical Zikist Movement and secretary of the Railway Locomotive Engine Driver’s Union. He rose to become the Secretary General of the Nigeria Union of Railway men, member, Film Censorship Board and Executive member of Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC
An ardent chess player, he was patron of Ndianiche Family meeting, Lagos branch, patron, Arondizuogu Patriotic Union, patron Arondizuogu Forum and for three years, vice president-general, Arondizuogu Patriotic Union. He is survived by four children, 11 grand children and a host of other relations.

CHIJIOKE, Dr. Emmanuel Onyekwere, at Ndi Agor compound, Obinkita, Arochukwu. Aged 67, Dr. Chijioke held a Bachelor of Science Degree in Soil Science and PHD in Agronomy with a special interest in Soil Science. He was staff of International Institute for Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan, Forestry Research Institute, Ibadan and Michael Okpara College of Agriculture, Umuagwo Imo State. Dr Chijioke was a consultant in Imo State government developing rice farms in various parts of the state and in 1992 became the Director of Abia State NALDA. In the 2000’s he took up appointment with Abia State College of Education (Technical) Arochukwu, where he was Dean, School of Vocational Studies. An avid sport man, he was a member of Owerri Sports Club among other sports associations. He is survived by his wife Roseline, Two children, four grand children and numerous relatives.
EZE IBOM ISII LOSES WIFE
His Royal Highness, Eze Dr Kanu Nwa Kanu, Eze Ibom Isii of Arochukwu kingdom has lost his beloved wife, Ugo-Eze Charity Chinyere Kanu. Aged 49, the painful death occurred on Friday 21st October 2011. She is survived by her husband and a host of many relatives.
A native of Umuobia, Ezinnachi, near Okigwe, her quest for education took her to many parts of the country, and in various educational institutions. She had the following educational qualifications: FSLC, WASC, HND (Public Admin), B.Sc (Admin), and PGD (Public Admin)
After completing her secondary school, she went back to Lagos and secured employment with the Ministry of Internal Affairs. She was trained as a finger print analyst at Police State CID, Alagbon Lagos for four years. She enhanced professional standing by attending many courses.
She married Prince Kanu Nwa Kanu in 1990. Her husband was to become Eze (Dr) Kanu Nwa Kanu Eze Ibom Isii, Arochukwu Kingdom.
Until her death she was the Head, National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) Arochukwu LGA, Abia State. She was the former Chairperson, Association of Ndi Ugo-Eze, Arochukwu LGA. She was also the former State Treasurer of the Association.
The deceased while alive used her various positions official unofficial, social and cultural to empower many people, especially the underprivileged. She will be remembered for her numerous works of charity.




EKE OBINIKPA:
ARONDIZUOGU FOREMOST TRADITIONAL MARKET (1968 – 2011)
By Ohiaerinwa Ogbonnaya Okoro

The Nigeria civil war brought me back to Arondizuogu in 1968. I had lived there several times earlier, the last being 1961 after which I had to return to Arochukwu for the last two years of my primary school education at Aggrey Primary School, Arochukwu.
A lot of events, developments and activities evolved to involve me with Eke Obinikpa Market. It is and remains Arondizuogu foremost traditional market. Other markets exist in Arondizuogu: Nkwo Achi, Afor Ndiawa, Afor Igwe Ikpeze, Afor Ndiakunwata; Oye Amangwu Ndiejezie. Neighbouring non- Arondizuogu markets are still popular with our people. They include Akokwa, Nkwo Uchu, Nkwo Umunze, Eke Onuimo and Nkwo Umualoma (Isuokpu).
But Eke Obinikpa remains the most traditional and central to Arondizuogu socio-economic, socio-cultural and socio-religious affairs. All these were not so obvious to me by 1968 when I returned to Arondizuogu from Arochukwu during the civil war. But the socio-economic was.
It was the full realization of this that forced me, then a class four student caught up in the quagmire violence and blood shed of the civil war, to petition in 1969 key player interest groups in Arondizuogu, especially Arondizuogu War Emergency Committee (AWEC).
Sited on Ndianiche-Uno away from residential quarters of the village purposely to reach out to follow Iheme Kindred village such as Ikpeze-Uno, Ndiakakaeme-Uno and Ndioguonyeom-Uno, Eke Obinaikpe also attracted N diamazu-Uno, Ndiakunwanta-Uno. And also near enough to attract non- Arondizuogu communities such as Akokwa and Uzii.
But it was the sitting on top of the Akokwa, Aniche-Uno, Uzii, Umuobom-Ndiogbuonyeoma-Uno village uplands that was the source of concern to hundreds and thousands that engaged in the buying and selling in the market during the civil war. The air raids by the Federal Air Force planes at Ozuabam were devastating, bloody and destroyed many lives. It was in the hanging and haunting nightmare that prompted my petition for the temporary relocation of the market behind the family home of Mazi Joseph Ezuma (Esesuo Agbar) of Ndiakunwanta-Uno Arondizuogu in his dense canopy rubber plantation till the war ended.
Another “romance” with Eke Obinikpa was my post war round-off of my secondary school education. I could not go back to St. Patrick’s Secondary School, Emene Enugu, and my alma mater. I had no choice but to seek admission at Iheme Memorial Grammar School, Arondizuogu. This entailed my trekking from my village Amazu Uno through Eke Obinikpa to the School almost day in, day out (1970-1971).
And so I gained intimate knowledge of Eke and its environs. Apart from the market clusters of shop, workshops for artisans-shoe repairers, bicycle repairers abound. One of them interested us students with his nickname “Anna apaachi – ona eliki”. We never realized how deeply philosophical the name was until many years after when as adults and family heads, etc we began to manage resources, scarce resources.
Life’s odyssey had since 1973 pulled me off my roots, for work and further education, and for casual and permanent employment. But by spending much of this period here in Arochukwu, I was still inevitably drawn to Arondizuogu, Amankwu’s diapora community over 200times larger than the mother village; and over five hundred times far more populous.
The Ekpe society, a very powerful elite and influential socio-cultural group sustained the affinity of unity between Amankwu and its vast diaspora community.
I have since the 1980’s been active member; and from the 1990’s, have often led Ekpe delegation to Arondizuogu. That is mostly for burial ceremonies and Ikeji Arondizuogu Festival during which Ekpe participate in the traditional mock buying and selling at Eke.
But Ekpe Amankwu delegation for the burial ceremony of late Mazi Harry Peter Nwana of Ndi Aniche Friday 18th November 2011, offered me an unusual opportunity to observe Eke Obinikpa more closely, more critically. The bus we travelled in was higher than usual and therefore offered me the chance to observe Eke sheds from rear-from the Afor Ikpeze-Mazi Michael Okpaleke family home and family lands leading to the Eke “backyard”.
From inside the bus I stood up to observe more intensively and precisely the entire market, especially the rear. An eyesore! A ramshackle representation of neglect, irresponsibility, rickety ghetto “anawa aghara”, battlefield, air-raided scene of helter skelter, confusion, disaster and abandonment, refuse-dump scene similar the many we see along our urban cities and high ways, decayed, rotten and stinking remains, foul and offensive.
What is worse, Eke Obinikpa’s problems are hydra-headed. Land encroachment seems to have narrowed the size of the great market to a ping-pong arena. Rough, undulating terrain within and around the market has posed severe difficulties to buyer and sellers in the market. Definitely, no comfort for elderly men and women writhing in pain with arthritis, rheumatism and other joint ailments that make them customers to practitioners of our healthcare delivery services. Land encroachment apart, weed encroachment is even worrisome. It is a matter for debate, probably between students of Iheme and National who really are the landlords of Eke Obinikpa: humans of Arondizuogu or rodents of the animal kingdom within the larger context of All-Aro kingdom! But let it be recalled that excluded among the rodents since the civil war, were the innocent, harmless sacred pyton whom the male youths ate up for want of meat to eat, disdaining the custom of sparing and protecting them.
One is forced to recall Shakespear’s lines in Julius Caesar

Let us carve him a dish
Fit for the gods
Not carcass for hounds.

Eke deserves much more than the shabby, hypocritical, prodigal-son treatment it is receiving from our people. From individuals. From traditionalists from politicians at local government, state assembly and executive and other governmental agencies. Not least APU-Arondizuogu Patriotic Union.
Socio-economic considerations apart, Eke Obinikpa’s socio-cultural potentials are enomous. Eke is at the centre of Ikeji Arondizuogu calendar. Beyond this the activities of Ikeji Festival are in tandem with that of Ikeji Aro-Okeigbo---- the cradle of Aro power and civilization. Eke Odu, Oye egbugbu, Afor na Nkwo (Oso Mmonwu); and Eke nwusaa agbata are similar to Nkwo nwupu mmai na Ibom Isii and Eke nwupu mmai na Amuze
When combined, the socio-economic and socio-cultural provide enormous potentials for tourism in Arondizuogu. Within a two kilometer radius could be harnessed tourist attraction of local, national and international importance and recognition: the Odum dynasty: Igwegbe Odum (Omenuko), Green Mbadiwe Odum, Francis Mbadiwe Odum, Kingsley Ozuomba Mbadiwe Odum. Then right ward direction into much of Ndianiche village are to be seen the Obiohas of Ndi Aniche Uno-Mazi C.N. Obioha, C. Moore Obioha. Other great families include the Nwanas-Reverend China Nwana, Mazi Peter Nwana, the celebrated author of foremost Igbo novel, Omenuko, Harry Nwana, Professor O.C. Nwana. Then the Anyakaoha family as important in Arondizuogu as in Arochukwu. The Ezeagu family that produced the ruling Eze Ndi Iheme autonomous community, Eze kossman Ndubuisi Kanu. Further inside Ndi Aniche-Uno is Iheme Memorial Grammar School, Arondizuogu founded over fifty years ago.
Within the radius outside Ndianiche in other Arondizuogu villages are Ama Edward, Nkwo Achi and Obi Okoli Idozuka (Udozuka) in Ndi Akunwanta-Uno. The first two of much socio-economic, socio-cultural and tourist interest and potentials. The last of much historical relevance being the contemporary of fellow war lord, Okoli Ikelionwu, whose diaspora exploits tower in much of northern Igbo Land, and up to Aro metropolis here in Arochukwu.
It is hoped that this will attract the attention of our people and ginger them into reconstructing and modernizing Eke Obinikpa market to live up the pedigree and expectations associated with our people. One recalls Professor Father Okonkwo’s insistence and reminder during the All Aro National Conference, 2000: “A successful man is one who has a successor”. And I quickly add: a responsible successor. Can we lay claim to be responsible successors? And not prodigal sons? A case of vibrant dynamic and achieving parents begetting cold important ash? Are our father’s shoe too big for us? Neither able to add to their structures and institution, their successes and gains. Nor sustain or maintain landmarks they left behind. Or are we agreeing with and confirming the derisive, uncomplimentary, ever-repeated remark; “Aro okwa eshi mbu!”?
Ohiaerinwa Ogbonnaya Okoro is a native of Amankwu Arochukwu






NZUKO ARO KANO ELECTS NEW OFFICERS
By Mazi Victor O. Okereke

It was on June 5th in the far away ancient city of Kano State, otherwise known as the Pyramid State that Nzuko Arochukwu, Kano branch, in their general assembly held at No 62 Abeokuta road Sabongari, Kano unanimously in the spirit of brotherliness elected into office a new set of executives to pilot the affairs of the Aros in Kano for the next three years
This came after the completion of one tenure of the outgoing executive led by Dr. Okechukwu Nwangwu as president who piloted Nzuko Aro affairs for three years running from 2008-2011 which by the special grace of God brought progress and development to Kano branch amidst controversy and division from his predecessor.
Be that as it may, the pyramid branch having elected a new set of executive to run her affairs for the next three years in the person of Mazi Sunday P. Okoro as president a vibrant, articulate, educated, well exposed and a man full of ideas has mapped out a lot of programmes that will benefit the Aros in Kano and also bring development and unity amongst them.
In his inaugural speech the president Mazi Sunday P. Okoro promised all the Aros in Kano to embrace peace as he is an ambassador of peace. This he proved by forming a peace committee led by another young and faithful man, God Pastor Inyebuchi Okereke, to unite all the aggrieved parties.
The election which was one of the most peaceful in the history of the pyramid branch produced the following members: Mazi Sunday P. Okoro (president), Mazi Chidi Okereke (Vice President) Mazi Victor O. Okereke (Secretary General), Mazi (Engr) Alvan Orji (Asst. Gen. Secretary), Nwamazi Chief (Dr) James Nwosu C.N.N. (Financial Secretary), Mazi (Engr) Nkemdrim Ngwu (Big Ken) Treasurer), Mazi Felix Okereke (P.R.O.) and Nwamazi Augustine Nwachukwu (Welfare/Caretaker).







EDITOR LOSES MOTHER

The family of late Mazi Enoch Obasi Harbor in Atani, Arochukwu, has announced the death of their wife and mother, Madam Esther Ola Harbor.
According to a release issued by his son, Mazi Onyema Harbor, Madam Ola Harbor passed on Sunday, December 4, 2011 at the age of 102 years. She was the oldest woman in Atani, Arochukwu before her death.
The release further stated that burial arrangements will be announced in due course. Madam Ola, aka Wowo, is survived by four children, 11 grand children and two great grand children, including Mazi Onyema Harbor, editor of THE OMU ARO newspaper




… and OMU ARO member loses mother-in-law

The death of NNEOHA ROSELINE OYIDIA OKORO, mother-in-law of THE OMU ARO board member, Comrade Mrs. Lovina Okoro, which occurred at the Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia, has also been announced.
Late Nneoha Oyidia Okoro who died at the age of 79 was a woman leader and a devout Christian who would always be remembered for her generosity.
“Nneoha” was one of the few women who, through their selfless efforts, planted the Anglican Church at Ugwuavo, Arochukwu, which today has attained the status of a Diocesan Cathedral.
According to Kanu Okoro family in Obinkita, Arochukwu, late Nneoha Oyidia Okoro will be buried in her late husband’s compound in Obinkita, Arochukwu on Saturday, 6th January, 2012
Eight children including Hillary Kwanashe Kanu Okoro, husband of Omu Aro member and a lost of other relations survive her








NDI EZE-OGO SEEK RETURN TO OKPANKPO

EVEN as the reformed Okpankpo Aro seems to be lying comatose, Ndi Eze Ogo (village heads) in Arochukwu have began moves to re-establish their membership of Okpankpo Aro, the highest policy organ of Arochukwu Kingdom.
In the reformed Okpankpo, inaugurated by Eze Aro, HRM Eze Ogbonnaya Okoro, CFR, the Eze Ogos were excluded. Instead, a council of Ndi Eze Ogo was established and specific traditional portfolios assigned to them.
But recently, the village heads petitioned Eze Aro through the president-general, Nzuko Arochukwu asking that they be restored to the membership of Okpankpo Aro.
In their letter to Eze Aro entitled “Restoration of Okpankpo to its Original and Glorious past with Ndi Eze Ogo as members” dated 15th November 2011 signed by 10 out of 19 Eze Ogos, the leaders stated that they are irked by the state of affairs in Aro kingdom because of downward trend and ineffectiveness of the traditional institutions
They stated, “We are particularly prompted by the state of affairs in Aro Kingdom because of the downward trend, the ineffectiveness, but for traditional institutions and structures, hitherto effective and exemplary, but for sometime now, wobbly, without vision, mission and focus. The various arms of Aro traditional and modern administration cannot be said to be healthy, at their best or afford us all sources for confidence and hope”.
Ndi Eze Ogo noted that Arochukwu has “fallen far below standard development index”, citing that “most Aro village deeply entangled in long standing crisis; litigations have become our favourite past time” and “our youths for want of productive employment resort to high jacking power from elders and government, and take the law into their hands”
They further observed that “crimes of all sorts are brazenly committed, including kidnapping raping, witchcraft, juju and associated diabolical consequences”
The village heads regretted that, even “in the midst of all these” power mongers and adventures struck” and reformed Okpankpo which was inaugurated 18th July, 2009, adding that since then, “the” Reformed Okpankpo “went to sleep, slumbering into coma”.
Describing the “Reformed Okpankpo” as “a flash-in-the-pan development “which” crashed in and crashed out of Aro traditional administrative system” Ndi Eze Ogo prayed Eze Aro to use his good offices at the highest level of Arochukwu Kingdom to effect necessary structural changes for effective administration of Arochukwu Kingdom, thus:

1. “Okpankpo Aro Okeigbo should be made up of “Nna-Ato” and Ndi Eze Ogo of the various villages
2. Advisory Council should be made up of majority of the members of still-born, defunct “Reformed Okpankpo”

Ironically though, the chairman of the Council of Ndi Eze O go, Mazi Obasi Okoronkwo, Eze Ogo Utughugwu, did not sign the said petition to Eze Aro casting somewhat doubts that Ndi Eze Ogo sat and took the decision. Head of Agbagwu, Amannagwu, Amoba, Obinkita, Ibom, Oror, Ugwuakuma and Ujari villages also did not sign the document.




UGOCHUKWU NWOKEJI WINS BOOK AWARD

An accomplished Scholar Ugochukwu Nwokeji of Amazu-Uno of Arondizuogu, Ideato North Local Government Area in Imo State has bagged prestigious award in African studies worldwide
The award is the 2011 Melville J. Herskovits Book Winner Award. It was presented on Thursday, November 17, 2011 in Washing, D.C. for his book, “The Slave Trade and Culture in the Bright Biafra: An African Society in the Atlantic world, published by Cambridge University Press in 2010
The award is given by the African Studies Association (ASA) to the author of the most outstanding original book published on Africa in the previous year and is considered the most prestigious award in African Studies worldwide. The ASA was formed in 1957 and is the largest of all scholarly associations that focus primarily on Africa.
The Herskovits Award has been awarded continuously since 1965 in honor of preeminent American anthropologist, Melville J. Herskovits, who was instrumental to the emergence of both African studies and Afro-American studies as academic disciplines in the United State.
According to the book’s citation by the panel of experts that appears in the program of the 54th Annual Conference of the ASA, “Undoubtedly, the major strengths of “The Slave Trade and culture in the Bright” is Nwokeji’s ability to decompress the complexities surrounding an almost obscure history of the slave trade and to bring out one of the least discussed issues of the trade-women”. The citation praised Nwokeji’s introduction of innovative methodology to the study of the Atlantic slave trade, concluding, “The book points is several ways to the difficulty of providing a logically complete story using incomplete data and drawing on inferences. Nwokeji’s attempt to provide a comprehensive history of the Bright of Biafra and the slave trade will expand our understanding of the history of African enslavement, but it is also an excellent source material for researchers and the general public interested in studying the obscured dimensions of the Atlantic slave trade”.
Previous winners of the Herskovits Award have included some of the most eminent names in African studies from a variety of disciplines, including history, political science, economics, anthropology, sociology and philosophy. Nwokeji joins a high exclusive group that includes such previous winners as Leo Kuper, Jan Vansina, Elliot Skinner, Rene Lemarchand, Ivor Wilks, Crawford Young, J.D.Y. Peel, Sara Berry, Paul M. Lubeck, John lliffe, Valentine Y. Mudimbe, Mahmood Mamdani.


About the book
“The Slave Trade and Culture in the Bright of Biafra “dissects and explains the structure, dramatic expansion, and manifold effects of the slave trade in the Bright of Biafra. By showing that the rise of the Aro merchant group was the key factor in trade expansion, G. Ugo Nwokeji reinterpret why and how such large-scale centralized states. The result is the first study to link the structure and trajectory of the slave trade in a major exporting region to the expansion of a specific. African merchant group-among other fresh insights into Atlantic Africa’s involvement in the trade-and the most comprehensive treatment of Atlantic slave trade in the Bright of Biafra. The fundamental role of culture in the organization of trade is highlighted, transcending the usual economic explanations in a way that complicates traditional generalizations about work domestic slavery, and gender in pre-colonial Africa.




ADVERT ANOTHER HONOUR TO A ROAD SAFETY ICON

MR. OSITA BENJAMIN CHIDOKA (OFR)
(IKE OBOSI)

Corps Marshall/Chief Executive, FRSC

We congratulate our tried and tested friend, classmate and associate Mr. Osita B. Chidoka, OFR, on the conferment on him by the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan of the Nation Award of the order of the Federal Republic (OFR).
We also appreciate Mr. President for reappointing you for a second term in the office as the Corps Marshall/Chief Executive FRSC
MR. President we are very grateful for finding our friend fit for all these. To God be the Glory
Signed
Onyema Ogboh, on behalf of your Aro friends/Associates and well-wishers:
THE IKOKUS
THE NKUMES
THE OGBOHS





BRAVO

On behalf of my self and family, I facilitate and rejoice with MAZI UCHE CHRISTIAN OTI, immediate-past president, Nzuko Arochukwu, Abuja Branch, as he receives the IKEMBA ARO award from Nzuko Arochukwu on 26th December, 2011.

Congratulations

ONYEMA OGBOH
and family



EDITORIAL USES AND ABUSES OF AWARDS
The awards of title and laurels evidence of recognition or appreciations to the development of the awarding private or public institution date back to the beginning of mankind. Human society is founded upon the values and practices of status hierarchy, ranking, grading and protocol of recognition of such awards.
There is no aspect of human life and activity that these recognitions do not apply, traditional and modern societies: the civil and public service, the military, the education system. Traditional African kingdoms boasted of status, titles and rankings, the Hausa, the kanuri, the Fulani, the Yourba, the Bini kingdoms.
The most handy and exemplary are examination bodies such as WAEC, NECO,JAMB A1(excellent/outstanding) down to F9 (failed) here in Nigeria power and authority are structured in firm consideration of status and hierarchy. The President, the Vice President, the Senate president,
The Speaker of the House of Reps, the Chief justice of Nigeria.
Applied zoologist, Desmond Morris, elaborately discusses the subject matter of man and status in his book, THE HUMAN ZOO.

This years national awards have sparked off controversies more than ever before. Firstly, world-famed novelist Chinua Achebe, declined to accept the CRF award from President Goodluck Jonathan, as he did previous to ex-President Obasanjo. The great writer explained that the circumstance which prompted his earlier declined remained.
Secondly a legislator declined to accept the award offered him, explaining that he did not deserve the award.
Thirdly, adding to the controversies, the president Jonathan honoured and awarded Alhaji Aliko Dangote with GCON, thus extending the honour beyond mostly political leaders.
Explanation from the Presidency insists that there was nothing wrong with honouring Dangote, Africa’s wealthiest man. That he made his wealth through transparent means. He remains today the largest employer of labour outside government.
About two years ago, a columnist of THE OMU ARO community newspaper criticized the way and manner tittles were being awarded here in Aro, and frowned at the questionable and decent handling of award here in Aro. The foregoing show the uses and abuses of awards. The uses could be better applied. The “Ugwu Aro” title is the highest in Aro kingdom. It should therefore not before the highest bidder. Age, long years of community service and development, multidimensional contributions to Aro causes, from village level to the entire Aro community and even beyond should be the requirement or qualification for Ugwu Aro, title.
A second lier, title should be established to serve as between Ikemba Aro and ugwu Aro. For if care is not taken the highest title in Aro kingdom. For if care is not taken the highest title in Aro kingdom could soon be for the highest bidder, cash and carry. Or”IMM- ima mmadu maruo uno”
Post humous awards of titles to deserving Aro and non-Aro should be instituted. This has the advantage of rewarding. Aro sons long or recently deceased who had served with the hearts, their spirits and their souls. Post humons rewards also have the advantage of awarding those whose tracks records of service and achievements have been accomplished, free from the possibility of falling from grace to grass, amid body traps and banana peels littered every where as ambush.
Awards in Aro kingdom could also be used to sustain links with Aro Diaspora. Nothing could be more handy, effective and result oriented these post heinous awards to deserving Aro and non-Aro deceased, including those in Diaspora who were no less patriotic and pan-Aro than their contemporaries here in Aro cradle.
Even non-Aro could richly deserve to be honoured and awarded. Professor Kenneth onwuka Dike, for instance, who not only encouraged Aro sons and daughters to research and write Aro history and culture, but also did so by himself-the pioneering work; trade and politics in the Niger Delta (1956);and the authorative The Aro of South-Eastern Nigeria 1650 to 1980 with professor Ekejiuba his conviction and vision of Aro history and culture is that it should be desenedly placed alongside the pedigree the Fulani the Kanuri, the Yoruba, the Bini, the Hausa attained.
Awarding committee members should be people broadly and deeply knowledgeable in Aro history and culture. In addition has a pan-Aro track-record, including sustained relations with Aro-uno and Aro-uzo-Aro cradle and Aro Diaspora. They should expunge filial, emotional or sentimental feelings that could becloud their sense of judgment.

With professor Felicia Ekejiuba


ALLEGED SUIT AGAINST DR. ALEX OTTI
DR NKEM OKORO DISMISSES ALLEGATION AS
HANDWORK OF MISCHIEF MAKERS.

Interview by Ohiaerinwa Ogbonnaya Okoro for
The Omu Aro. Experts

OMU ARO: Rumours making the rounds are that you sued Dr Alex Otti over his alleged attempt to rehabilitate Barrakki-Goldie-New market Road, your comment please.

DR NKEM OKORO: this is a blatant lie. There was no time Dr. Alex showed interest toward such a project. Rather it was dr Nkemjika Jombo Offor who showed interest. He approached me to link him up with government, and government approved. Upon completion, he applied to the government for the road to be named after him. It was approved. Thus the name of the read:Dr Jombo Nkemjika Offor.

OMU ARO: How come Dr Alex Otti this sustained mix-up allegations?
DR NKEM OKORO: The truth remains that it was I in the company of Dr Jombo offor who approach Dr Alex Otti to help influence FERMA to continue from where Jombo had stopped. That is, from the New Market end to Amaikpe and from same New Market road to Ibom ring road.

OMU ARO: What really transpired at the meeting?

DR NKEM OKORO: There and then, he Dr Alex Oti) made a call to the honorary minister for works. And the out come of the content is still being awaited.

OMU ARO: But why the persistent rumour of the legal action you allegedly took against Dr. Otti? Rumour from nowhere.

DR NKEM OKORO: The responsibility for justifying or validatering the rumour lies with the rumour mongers themselves which court? Which presiding Magistrate: which presiding Judge.



Investigation with Hon Nkem Okoro on 7-11-2011
TOA: Rumour make the rounds is that you sued Dr. Alex Otti his attempt to rehabilitate Bourakki Goldie New Market Road up to Obinkita and Ibom village, your want please.

Dr Okoro: