Prominent personalities from the Ikwerre ethnic nationality have showered encomiums on the President General of the Ogbakor Ikwerre Cultural Organisation Worldwide, Eze (Barrister) Godspower Onuekwa, following the successful unveiling of his book titled Who Is Who in Ikwerre (Iwhuruohna Nation).
Leading the tributes, former Chief Judge of Rivers State, Justice Peter Agumagu (rtd), described the publication as a landmark achievement for the Ikwerre people.
Speaking as chairman of the unveiling and launch ceremony held at Hotel Presidential, Port Harcourt, Justice Agumagu said the book represents a historic contribution that will serve as an enduring reference for present and future generations.
According to him, the Ikwerre ethnic nationality is deeply grateful to Eze Onuekwa for ensuring that a comprehensive record of the people has been documented.
He urged Ikwerre sons and daughters, as well as other Nigerians, to purchase copies of the book and share them with friends and associates.
Justice Agumagu expressed confidence that the book is an authentic portrayal of Ikwerre history, noting that the ethnic group has faced threats from overambitious neighbours seeking to annex its identity and territory.
He stressed that the publication would help safeguard the true history of the Ikwerre people.
“We are Ikwerre. We are the ones to tell who we are, not others. The Ikwerre people are strong and resilient, and nobody will be able to subdue us,” he declared.
Also speaking, former Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Sir Owene Wonodi, commended the author for the time, energy, resources and dedication invested in producing the book.
He described the work as a compendium worthy of celebration, noting that it captures the essence and contributions of the Ikwerre people.
Sir Wonodi said he was delighted to attend the unveiling ceremony, which brought together scholars, leaders and stakeholders to discuss Ikwerre culture and heritage. He observed that the book has bridged a potential communication gap in an increasingly globalised world.
He warned that without deliberate efforts to document history, future generations could lose access to vital cultural knowledge when current leaders and elders are no longer around.
He, therefore, urged continued documentation of Ikwerre history, particularly in the face of claims of ownership by other ethnic groups over Port Harcourt and Ikwerre land.
Reviewing the book, Prof Eric Amadi of Ignatius Ajuru University of Education described it as a special compendium that highlights individuals who have made, and continue to make, significant contributions to the development of Ikwerre land.
He said the book compares favourably with existing literature on Ikwerre history and deserves commendation.
Another reviewer, Prof C. D. Chukwu, also praised the author, describing Who Is Who in Ikwerre (Iwhuruohna Nation) as a well-researched and valuable publication.
In his response, Eze (Barrister) Godspower Onuekwa expressed gratitude to all who attended the ceremony and to those who supported the project in various ways.
He said the book was inspired by his deep love for the Ogbakor Ikwerre Cultural Organisation and his desire to contribute meaningfully to the development of Ikwerre land.
According to him, the publication is the product of extensive discussions, interactions and research, and expressed hope that other Ikwerre scholars and professors would build on the foundation laid by the book and further document the history and achievements of the people in the coming years.
Dignitaries at the event included Justice Peter Agumagu (rtd); Sir Owene Wonodi; former Secretary to the State Government, Chief Sampson Agbaru; former President General of Ogbakor Ikwerre Worldwide, Prof. Otonti Nduka; Prof. Emenike Wami; Chief Alex Amadi Wochi; Prof. Samuel Chisa Dike; Senator Andrew Uchendu; Comrade Levi Atuzie; Prof. Aaron Ojule; Prof. Michael Emeji; and several others.
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