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Abadezongo Festival: The Sacred Renaissance of Odimodi
As the descendants of the Odifa lineage of Otolor-Kokioko prepare to hoist the revered festival flag, a celestial alignment unfolds, awakening the spirits of their ancestors. The Abadezongo Festival, a legendary celebration, breathes life into the land and waters of Odimodi, marking a time of profound energy and unity.
According to tradition, “the mystical energies of Iduwini will be unleashed tomorrow,” as the river and forest gods, summoned by ancestral decree, bless Eluwe Ada. This sacred venue, described as “the hallowed and ancestral conference ground of Odimodi,” will serve as the heart of the festival’s spiritual and cultural activities.
At dawn, the resonant sound of the Abadezongo drums will echo across the forests and rivers, connecting the people to their roots. “The drums call upon the people to gather at the sacred shores,” where the presence of their ancestors will be palpable. From the misty embrace of the early morning, vibrant masquerades will emerge, “their colourful plumage shimmering with a spiritual luminescence,” captivating onlookers with their traditional dances and symbolic movements.
As the celebrations intensify, Odimodi’s waters will come alive, “churning and foaming” as mythical aquatic beings join the festivities. The people, filled with joy and gratitude, will sing and dance, their melodies soaring on the wind as an offering to the gods and their forebears. Their voices, united in harmony, form “a symphony of joy and gratitude,” invoking blessings and protection from the divine realm.
The Abadezongo Festival will transform Odimodi into “a realm of spiritual and artistic wonder,” creating an atmosphere of awe and enchantment. Visitors are invited to witness this extraordinary event, immerse themselves in the divine energies, and participate in this unique celebration of life, heritage, and the eternal bond between humanity and the divine.
This is more than a festival—it is a sacred convergence of tradition, spirituality, and community, offering all who attend a chance to connect with the profound cultural legacy of Iduwini.
Prof. Benedict Binebai
(Igumugumu)
Guest Columnist
We mourns the physical departure of our revered patriarch, Chief Dr. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark. Though his mortal form may have faded, his essence remains etched in the annals of history. As a great defender of the Ijaw people, a sage historian, and a fearless politician, he embodied the spirit of the Odudu – a mythical force that commands reverence and awe
Like a colossus, Edwin Clark strode across Nigeria’s landscape, leaving an indelible mark on its sands. His voice thundered like the thunder of Egbesu, shaking the foundations of injustice and oppression. With each step, he forged a path of courage, conviction, and unasailable commitment to the Ijaw cause.
As a deity among mortals, Chief Clark’s presence was palpable, his wisdom and guidance sought by many. Though he may have walked among us, his essence transcended the mundane, touching the realm of the sacred. Deities, as the saying goes, do not die; they merely transit to another realm, where their essence continues to inspire and guide.
Farewell, revered patriarch! May your odyssey on earth be remembered for generations to come. Your legacy, like the evergreen mangrove, will continue to flourish, nourished by the waters of our collective memory.
By Admin
Abuja – A proposal to create 31 additional states across Nigeria is currently under consideration by the House of Representatives Committee on Constitutional Review. According to the committee, the move aims to address concerns about representation, governance, and regional development across the country.
The proposed states are distributed across various geopolitical zones, with six states suggested for the North-Central region, four for the North-East, five for the North-West, five for the South-South, and seven for the South-West. The committee has indicated that the proposal is in line with Section 8(1) of the Nigerian Constitution, which outlines the requirements for state creation.
Proposed States by Region
North-Central
1. Benue Ala (Benue)
2. Okun (Kogi)
3. Okura (Kogi)
4. Confluence (Kogi)
5. Apa-Agba (Benue South Senatorial District)
6. Apa (Benue)
7. Federal Capital Territory, Abuja (as an autonomous state)
North-East
8. Amana (Adamawa)
9. Katagum (Bauchi)
10. Savannah (Borno)
11. Muri (Taraba)
North-West
12. New Kaduna (Kaduna)
13. Gurara (Kaduna)
14. Tiga (Kano)
15. Kainji (Kebbi)
16. Ghari (Kano)
South-East
17. Etiti (New)
18. Adada (Enugu)
19. Urashi (New)
20. Orlu (Imo)
21. Aba (Abia)
South-South
22. Ogoja (Cross River)
23. Warri (Delta)
24. Bori (Rivers)
25. Obolo (Rivers & Akwa Ibom), possibly a renamed Oil Rivers State
South-West
26. Toru-Ebe (Delta, Edo & Ondo)
27. Ibadan (Oyo)
28. Lagoon (Lagos & Ogun)
29. Ibeju (Ogun)
30. Ife-Ijesha (Ogun, Oyo & Osun)
31. Oke-Ogun (Ogun, Oyo & Osun)
Constitutional Process for State Creation
The proposal will require approval through a series of legislative steps. The Nigerian Constitution stipulates that for a new state to be established, it must be supported by at least a two-thirds majority in the National Assembly, the State House of Assembly, and local government councils in the affected areas. Additionally, a referendum will be conducted, with the final decision forwarded to the National Assembly for ratification.
This proposed restructuring has generated mixed reactions, with some viewing it as a step toward decentralization and regional autonomy, while others question its feasibility given Nigeria’s economic and political landscape.
What are your thoughts on this development? Share your views!
STATE CREATION: A Call to Unity for Toruebe and Oil Rivers States
The struggle for the creation of Toruebe and Oil Rivers states has reached a critical juncture. In response, the President of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), Professor Benjamin Okaba, has issued a press statement outlining the INC’s position.
As Ijaws, it is imperative that we unite behind the INC’s stance, speaking with “one voice,” “one strength,” and “one vision.” We must defend our collective interests and advocate for our rights.
Let us stand together in solidarity, drawing inspiration from our shared heritage and cultural identity. By doing so, we will demonstrate our unbending commitment to the creation of Toruebe and Oil Rivers states.
The advocacy for the creation of states for the Ijaw nation is anchored on unity of purpose, collective action, cultural pride, and identity. This includes the celebration of Ijaw heritage, promotion of our language, customs, and traditions, and the attainment of economic and political self-determination.
Together, we can achieve our goals and create a brighter future for ourselves, our children, and generations to come.
This is another opportunity. We must rise up, Ijaws, and make our voices heard!
Igumugumu
2021 Voice of the Niger Delta