Milestone of ancient Ogu Kingdom pictorial : From the Past to the Present
Ogu Town formerly an Island now peninsula after the land reclamation (Dredging) of the mangrove forest during the Second Republic led by the Patriotic and Visionary leader Chief Dr. Melford Obene Okilo of old Rivers State , is the administrative headquarters of Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area (LGA) in Rivers State, Nigeria. It is situated in the eastern part of the Niger Delta, the Ogu people are of the Wakirike-se, a sub-group of the larger Ijaw tribe in Nigeria.
The LGA represent one of the 11 Local Government Areas in Rivers State with Ijaw heritage. Namely: Okrika, Andoni, Bonny, Degema, Asari Toru, Akuku-Toru, Opobo/Nkoro, Abua/Odual, Ahoada West and Port Harcourt City LGA.
Ogu–Bolo Local Government Area (LGA) covers an area of 89 km² (34 sq mi) and had an estimated population of over 119,000 as of 2020, according to the Rivers State Primary Health Care Management Board.[3] Located in the Rivers South East Senatorial District, it is bordered by Eleme LGA to the north, Tai LGA to the south, Khana LGA to the east, and Bonny LGA to the west.
Ogu Kingdom consists of mainly majors towns of Tende-Ama, Chuku Ama 1 and
- Chuku Ama II, Ikpoama, Owugono, Nemieboka Ama, Opuama, Ada Ama 1and 11 and principally satellite villages and fishing settlements which can be reached from the sea by Ogu Creek and the Bonny River. These include:
- Abereniboye Kiri
- Ada Ama I
- Ada Ama II
- Adokiye kiri
- Adolphus Nemieboka Kiri
- Adufe Ama
- Afaka Ama
- Agakien Ama
- Agakien Kiri
- Amabara Ama
- Anigoboka Ama
- Apanatibo Kiri
- Atubonacheofoin-a Ama
- Brown Ama
- Bumo Kiri
- Chuku Ama
- Chuku Ama II
- Daso Ama
- Febie Ama
- Fombo Ama
- Fulobele Kiri
- Gream Kiri
- Ibiebele Kiri
- Ibiorika Kiri
- Ichi Kiri
- Igafe Ama
- Igbikiyemieari Ama
- Ikikafipiri Ama
- Ikpokiri I
- Ikpokiri II
- Ikpokiri III (wharf)
- Ilanga/Yikabo Ama
- IpiangbafibumoKiri
- Iwomabie Ama
- Kulo Kiri
- Mbi Kiri
- Mgbemgbeboko (Fubara Kiri)
- Nemieboka Ama
- New Ogu (Kporo Ama)
- Niniapukiri
- Nyanabo Ama
- Odo Kiri
- Ogobo Ama
- Ogonotoru Ama
- Ogugu-Chuku Ama
- Ogweinbie Ama
- Olobulo Ama
- Olomusoko Ama
- Omodarani Ama
- Orabere Kiri
- Orubie Ama
- Otobipi Kiri
- Owuapuigbiki Kiri
- Owugono Ama
- Owukiri Ama
- Owupele Ama
- Piri Ama
- Sani Kiri
- Semenibipi/Iyo Kiri
- Siere Ama
- Tamuno Ama (Ofunguru Ama)
- Tende Ama
- Tendefe Ama
- Tombikuku
- Tububie Ama
- Yikabo Kiri
- Olobulo Ama
- Yude Ama
- Trade, commerce and Religious activities
Fishing and peasant Farming is the predominant occupation of the people. Trading is principally done within the contiguous communities of Tai, Eleme, Bonny, and Andoni. The introduction of "legitimate" trade by Europeans in the mid-20th century increased the volume of commercial activities in Ogu. Christianity being the major religion, alongside a few adherents of African Traditional Religion. The postal code for Ogu–Bolo is 500104.
Culture
The Ogu-Bolo people have a distinctive and diverse culture, showcased in their festivals, cultural attire, and food. Important traditions in the culture of Ogu people are the Iria puberty and marriage ceremonies, wrestling, traditional plays, burial rites, installation of chiefs, traditional rulers' ceremonies, and rites connected with day-to-day life.
Masquerades play a particularly important culture role. Some are colorful with make-ups or paraphernalia, and are a common sight throughout communities, especially during festive occasions. These performances are either religious, historical, or the personifications of legends, and are accompanied by song, music, and dance. Musical instruments used include pots and drums, wooden gongs, horns, and xylophones. All these are made locally[citation needed] by experts with an ancient tradition behind their craftsmanship.
Carving of masks and ceremonial canoes is a revered art, having matured in style and quality over generations. Gradually, the purely functional forms of these carvings were given new dimension and refinement which reflected a sense of aesthetic values.
The dances, plays, and masquerades depict the religious, social, and working life of the people. In turn, the life of the people has been greatly influenced by their culture. Thus, a spiritually ennobling circle has been set up. The Ogu man's (Okrika-Ijaw) confidence, bravery, love of truth, fair-play, and wholesome dealings can all be traced to the influence of his unique cultural heritage.
Source file: Wikipedia
This symbol of ancient Ogu Kingdom
REMEMBERING THE DEDICATION OF ST MARTIN'S CHURCH OGU TOWN 49 YEARS AGO. DEC 12,2015. The Cathedral of St Martin's Ogu Town, Ogu / Bolo Local Government Area of Rivers State, South-South Nigeria was dedicated on Saturday 12th November, 1966, still has the original Bell of commissioned by His Grace, The Most Reverend. C. J. Patterson; C.M.G., C. B. E, D. D; M. A. then Archbishop of West Africa is also in a remarkable state of preservation. The Anglican Church popularly called Opu-Church. (Big Church Ogu ), influence still survives. St Martin's Church, Ogu Town has witnessed many stirring happenings since its consecration in 1966. The Church over the years has honoured, Thanksgiving and celebrated the golden coronation of the King (Amayanabo) HRM. Elliott Iyayegoseibama John Ada, Loko V111 Amayanabo of Ogu in 3rd June 1979, the honoring of the Senator representing Rivers East. Senator, Chief.Arc. George. T. Sekibo, JP and prominent Son of Ogu Town; late High Chief, Barr. F.D.Ali, a retired Deputy Director of Customs and Excise Nigeria. His need to assist the poor and needy in Ogu. The famous water masquerade the Odumu was also displayed to commemorate the event in 1966. Congratulations to our Beloved Opu- Church in the mighty Name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen. Jinbobaraye Karibo-Nelson posted on Facebook page Nov 12,2015. Dedication program from my late Mother Madam Tamunoene Titi Ben Opuda's Archives.
Photo of Ogu Jetty popularly called Toru-aka from the creek looking towards open sea. Aside from those who
are still in Ogu Town of aged , today's children will hardly know or understand that it came to existence in the mid 80's.
Waterfront: popularly called Passenger Polo in Abeji and Obuoforibo Chieftaincy Houses in Offiamani Group of Houses, a Company Dredger, land reclamation of Yikabo island, Chuku Polo opposite Ogu Town now joined with Ogu after the land Reclamation by the NDDC. They are all parts of Ogu Kingdom.
See this building? It is located in the island owned by late Community Leader Elder Yikabo of Chuku War Canoe House. Photo : Jinbobaraye Karibo-Nelson
Governement Secondary School Ogu established in 1972
Govt Sec School GSS Ogu.
GSS Ogu showing the Football field.
In 1972, Government Secondary School, Ogu, the first post primary school in Ogu/Bolo LGA was established by the then Military Governor of old Rivers State Navy Commander Alfred Diete-Spiff and it started lessons in September 1972 which attract students from all parts of the state ,including foreign Students from Ghana and Sierra Leone. source: Jinbobaraye Karibo-Nelson
Photo : Victor Tamunotonye ,June 17,2020
From second Left - Right : Senior Isreal Owubo, and Senior Ateke 80 set, Senior, Pastor Tonye Richard Apiri, PhD, Socual Prefect 82 and Jinbobaraye Karibo-Nelson 83 set.
Flashback:
The Palace of the Amanyanabo, King of Ogu Kingdom
Captain Bennett Opuda Sikabofori retired Nigerian Army Officer was affectionately called DAA by his relations was born in ancient Ogu by respected Paramount ruler of Furubowarifama War Canoe House in Omodara Group of Houses in Ogu kingdom Chief Caleb Sika Nna and Madam Emily Ditari Sika both of blessed memory. He was named after his father’s late elder brother Bennett Opuda, a Palm produce merchant of the colonial era. He joined the Nigerian Army in the late1950’s and was one of the few Warrant officers of the Ijaw ethic nationality of the Nigerian Army to be commissioned as an officer, that was trained at the Royal School of Military Medical UK. Upon completion of his studies, he was commissioned as 2ND Lieutenant and deployed to the Nigerian Army Medical Corps, held several appointments during his career and served at the Military hospital Lagos and Port Harcourt etc and he was prematurely retired after the overthrown of General Yakubu Gowon by late military Head of State General Murtala Ramat Muhammed in 1975. His name was captured in the Book Title 13 years of military rule in Nigeria 1966-79. Published by Daily Times of Nigeria owned by the Federal Government of Nigeria, currently is privatized and owned by private communications company.
Daa, was an active participant in the brutal Nigerian civil war against the secessionist forces that gave decisive victory for the Nigerian Federal forces.
After retirement, in the lead-up to the second Republic he became a member of defunct Great Nigerian Peoples Party (GNPP) and later moved to the ruling National Party of Nigeria NPN. Thereafter, he joined the service of Douglas Veterans Security, became the senior Operations security officer. Among his accomplishments while at Douglas services was the development and implementation of a corporate wide management plan that represent a benchmark for the security outfit. He has vast experience in evaluating industrial facilities, performing physical security surveys, fire and life saving training and conducting highly sensitive internal investigations in area of operations.
Over the years, DAA has been involved in the community service in many ways, as an outstanding elder.
His played a vital role in the coronation of the Monarch, King of Ogu Town in 1979 for effective security approach for the weeklong activities of the Amanyanabo King Elliot Iyayegoseibama John Ada, JP, Loko VIII .
He is a man of peace; he hates crimes and relentlessly advocating for the unity, progress and development of the Ogu kingdom and entire Wakirike bese (Okrika ) clan.
Until his death, he was the Chairman of Fakabere Family, descendants of Ogu kingdom and Community Elder ( Amasenibo ) of Ogu Kingdom.
Pictures: Provided by Dr. Tonye Sikaboofori-Son
Source: Jinbobaraye Karib-Nelson, a close Maternal Cousin (Grandfather Bennett Opuda was named after him)
Multi-Purpose Hall built by Hon.Mina Tende and reconstructed under the tenure of the Executive Chairman of Ogu/Bolo LGA Hon. Barr. Vincent Nemieboka and named after the late Paramount Chief Abengesi, who was killed during the brutal Biafra civil war in 1967 after the evacuation of Ogu by the secessionist forces.
St Martin’s Anglican Church Ultra Modern Event Center
St Martin’s Anglican Church Ultra Modern Event Center in Tende Ama ,Ogu built by the former Executive Chairman of Ogu/Bolo LGA Hon. Vincent Nemieboka. Dedicated to the Glory of God by His Lordship, Rt. Revd. Enoch Atuboyedia, JP, Diocese of Okrika.
WELCOME TO OLOBULO MARKET
Olobulo is the name of the market. It is located in Ogu Town, Headquarter of Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria. Sharing boundaries with Chuku-Ama, Nokpo village, Eteo, Sime and Tende-Ama.
The Olobulo market is one of the few historic markets that still exists in the Ijaw community since post-Independence era in the Niger Delta Region; home to the mainstay of the Nigerian economy.
Olobulo market held every five days of the week. Where different ethnic groups, such as the Tais, Ogonis,The Elemes, Ikwerres, and Igbos etc meet all together to buy and sell any type of goods. Buyers do buy food-stuff and ingredients that last for days.
The market, the stalls are made-up of lock-up and unlock stores. Since, the major main occupation of Ogu people of Wakirike-se (Okrika) of the Ijaws ethnic nationality is fishing and subsistence farming. Items on display on the market day are essentially agricultural products such as garri, the staple food of the South-South, Nigeria. Yams, maize’s, palm-oil, fishes, cassavas, onions, fruits, provisions, hand bags and accessories, all wax products and floral jewellery beads hand made by the local in Nigeria.
Olobulo market is always busy and congested on every market day. The population of the host town Ogu, which comprises of many satellite towns and villages has a population close to half a million people.
The number of people who come to the market swell-up it’s population, every available space where stall are not erected was occupied by traders who are anxiously beckoning with their hands to customers to patronise them to buy their goods they display on top of waterproof on the ground.
Traders, peoples start coming to Olobulo market as early as 0530 a:m especially fishermen and women on-board boats from fishing settlements in Okoloba-toru; Bonny Obutoru, Cawthorne Channel and Okrika river and those who are arriving from far- distance in hinter-land by 0630 hours, the market is always bursting with business activities.
Overtime, the market had brought unity and stability even inter marriage among our neighbours. While growing up, as a boy I used to accompanied my late mother Madam Tamunoene Benett Opuda to the market in the 70’s were people from every walks of life come to the market.
I love Olobulo market Ogu and all of the lovely things that can be found within five days a week. Like most other Nigerian markets, of course, there is an open space to trade animals, goats and fowls.
Olobulo Ogu’s only historic market was re-constructed by Orlean invest West Africa limited in partnership with the Ogu / Bolo local Government council and officially commissioned on Friday 14th March,2014.
Olobulo it is one of the most interesting market in Rivers state. Be there.
By Jinbobaraye Karibo-Nelson posted originally on Facebook profile of The Descendants of Obuoforibo in Ogu Kingdom, August 21,2015
Left-Right : Sir Timon Asembo Snr ,AmaOpusenibo Lawrence Fubara Anga Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Notary Public of the Supreme Court, Nigeria and Distinguished Senator George Thompson Sekibo to celebrate our own after confirmation at the Supreme Court of Nigeria in Abuja.
The first Ogu Kingdom man to be a SAN.
We are proud of our respected illustrious Son and Father, AmaOpusenibo Lawrence Fubara Anga JP.
Lawrence is the founding partner who heads the Banking, Finance & Capital Markets Practice Groups. He has extensive experience in Banking & Finance, Capital Markets, Aviation, Shipping and Energy. He is qualified to practice law in three jurisdictions and has a strong multi-disciplinary background in law, economics, management and fiscal policy.
He represents major state-owned and private oil and gas production, marketing and distribution companies in a range of matters. He acted for Dubri Oil in the first marginal field acquisition in Nigeria and advised on the acquisition of the first IPP at Egbin. He also advises clients from around the world on foreign direct investment in Nigeria and on related tax issues. He advised two investment banks on their external restructuring and eventual listing on the Nigerian Stock Exchange. He advised a syndicate of banks on a US$800 million reserve based lending facility in respect of the acquisition of a participating interest in an OML. He advised a syndicate of banks on a US$141 million facility in respect of the acquisition of a power plant.
He was invited to participate in the Presidential Policy Advisory Committee where he was a member of the subcommittee on finance and investment. He wrote the committee’s policy paper on foreign investment and privatization. He has been involved in project finance and banking & finance for several years.
Certifications
- MA (Law) Cambridge University, England.
- BA (Law) Churchill College, Cambridge University, England.
- BA (Economics and Pol. Science) Yale College, USA.
- BL, Ghana Law School.
- BL, Nigerian Law School.
- Advanced Certification in Project Finance from the CLDP and Eximbank (USA).
Professional Associations
- Nigerian Bar Association
- International Bar Association
- American Bar Association.
- Source: ǼLEX. ǼLEX is a leading Commercial & Dispute Resolution law firm. One of the largest full-service law firms in West Africa with offices in Lagos, Port Harcourt and Abuja in Nigeria and Accra, Ghana.
AELEX’s
founding partner, Fubara Anga (SAN) (4th from left); Managing Partner, Adedapo
Tunde-Olowu (SAN); founding partner, Theophilus Emuwa with the recipients of
the Pioneer Service Award at the AELEX 20th Anniversary Celebratory Dinner held
at The Hall, Musa Yar’adua Way, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Date:
20 Aug 2024.
Congratulation Sir.
Air Vice Marshall Tomboiyi Dick Ireuenabere Retired (Two-star Generals) . Congratulations and Best wishes on your well Deserved conferment of the National Honor in the Rank of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), by President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR.
AVM Dick-Irueneabere , The first Presidential Commissioned Airforce Officer in Ogu Kingdom and former Chief of Policy and Plans, Defence Headquarters.
The entire Ogu Town are proud of this award.
AVM Dick- Ireuenabere maternal grandfather, late Chief Caleb Sika Nna, Paramount Ruler of Furubowarifama War Canoe House in Omodara Group of Houses in Ogu kingdom, he is an immediate younger brother to my late mother’s father late Elder Bennett Opuda a well-known palm produce merchant during the colonial era.
Source :Jinbobaraye Karibo-Nelson, Maternal 2nd Cousin.
Mrs. Ekaro Comfort Chukumuebobo, Administrator.
Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Water Resource in Nigeria from 2019 and 2020 respectively and Alumna of University of Lagos. She was the third daughter of the first Chairman of the Obuoforibo (Onye) descendants , the respected Paramount ruler , Regent of Ogu popularly called James Onye.
Ekaro utilized her position, full employment of members of Ogu kingdom (OguApu) , Wakirikese and Rivers indigenes etc. and provided many free solar-powered Water boreholes in the entire Ogu/Bolo LGA communities within the satellite town.
Pastor Fab Vic Nangibo (JP)
Fab Nangibo with Afro hair in the late 70's
Navy Lieutenant Caleb Fab Vic Nangibo retired from the Nigerian Navy, now a Pastor of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry, Port Harcourt.
Fab, as he is fondly called, he went to Government School in former Eastern region and Rivers, before moving to the United States in 1976, to Miami-Dade College and the University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, where he got bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Journalism, Mass Communication and International Relations.
He attended the Nigerian Naval College, Onne Rivers State in 1983 and he was commissioned as the first Presidential Commissioned Naval Officer in the entire Ogu Kingdom and appointed Public Relations Officer Naval Headquarters (NHQ) Ministry of Defense headquarters . He took part in national assignment, member of 1984 Independence Anniversary Reviewing Committee under Major-General Muhammadu Buhari Military Government for the 24th Independence Anniversary celebration and a member of the, Special Military Tribunal (Lagos Zone) under Decree N0 3 of 1984. Staff Officer 2 PRO , and later acting Public Relations Officer (PRO) Command and Staff College, Jaji now Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Nigeria. He also has served as the Staff officer Information and Public Affairs in Eastern Naval Command (ENC) Headquarter, Calabar. Contributor Editor /Editorial Production of The Sailor, the magazine of the Nigerian Navy.
He took part in flag showing in the West African States of Senegal, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, and Central African country of Equatorial Guinea onboard the landing ship Tank LSTs, NNS AMBE amphibious vessel, Operation Sea Dog Exercise onboard then Flagship NNS ARADU, the largest warship in the Nigerian Navy fleet in 1985 carried out by the Nigerian Armed Forces, and Exercise Odion in active tour of duty to respond to real-time threats, including piracy, sea robbery, and crude oil theft as well as fostering capabilities in the defense of maritime assets in Gulf of Guinea for economic prosperity for Nigeria.
Pastor Fab has a passion for helping people gain a greater understanding of the importance of life and been a Clergy he has been giving training to people in advancing God’s kingdom since the first day he gave his life to Christ while at Command and Staff College, Jaji in 1987. He attended several military and professional courses while in service.
After Fab retired from active military service, he served with Total E& P Nigeria Limited as Security Coordinator offshore, Convey Commander.
He is known as a dynamic, versatile and interesting speaker who holds the audience captivated on any topic. He can speak on unlimited range of different topics, since on retirement, and expert on Geopolitics., he has made a vital contribution to the peace, stability and development of our beloved Ogu kingdom interests.
He participated on Star Beer advertisements in the early 80’s. The advert was handled by Lintas Nigeria in the United States of America, while Fab was a Student in the United States, the most popular advertising agency in Nigeria under late Ted Mukoro.
Star was number one beer of national pride, slogan Enjoy the Brighter Life -Star .
Pastor Fab has travelled extensively in the USA, the Caribbeans and visited Europe as well as State of Israel in West Asia on Holy Pilgrimage .
In 1999-2002 he was appointed Special adviser on Security and Companies matter for Ogu/Bolo Local Government Area by the Executive Chairman of Ogu/Bolo Hon. Mina Tende and also appointed Special Adviser on Religious matters by Caretaker Committee Chairman (CTC) Ogu/Bolo LGA in 2024. He is a member of The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR).
Pastor Fab Vic Nangibo (JP) is a respected socialite, public figure and was a dedicated member of the local community; and Elder (Warisenibo) of Nangibo, Aladokiakabofori, Chuku and Loko Royal War Canoe Houses in Ogu Kingdom and Chieftain of Ijaw National Congress, and currently Director Cataprina International Limited.
Source .Jinbobaraye Karibo-Nelson a, Paternal close Cousin and Veteran of the Armed Forces of Nigeria ,Nigerian Navy (NN).
Alabo (Hon.) Boma Iyaye, Esq, DSSRS:
Advocate for Youthful Growth
In the sprawling Niger Delta landscape of the Niger Delta, an inspiring figure of steadfast commitment and indefatigable spirit emerges: Alabo (Hon.) Boma Iyaye. The current Executive Director, Finance and Administration of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), it has been a lifelong mission to uplift, guide, and provide a nurturing platform and environment for the region's youth. Deeply embedded in his essence, this mission has painted a remarkable canvas of his journey through public service and the private sector.
He was born to the esteemed lineage of Alabo A. C. T Iyaye, Fifikachiri III, and Alabota F. A. Iyaye on September 24, over five decades ago, Young Boma's formative years hinted at the excellence to come. His academic prowess shone brightly, first at State School 2 in Port Harcourt and later at Baptist High School, where he combined stellar academic achievements with a growing passion for sports.
Transitioning into higher education, Boma's diligence led him to the then University of Science and Technology, Nkpolu-Oruworokwo, in Port Harcourt, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Business Education and an MBA in Banking and Finance. Not one to rest on his laurels, he later embraced the legal profession. He obtained his LL.B degree from the University of Abuja and was subsequently called to the Nigerian Bar.
Beyond his commendable academic strides, however, he bore within the burning desire to make tangible societal impacts. Following a successful tenure in the accounting arena with prestigious multinationals, Hon. Iyaye joined the People's Democratic Party (PDP). His foray into politics culminated in representing Ogu/Bolo Constituency in the Rivers State House of Assembly, further highlighting and cementing his commitment to the region's development.
A testament to his undeniable talent and unwavering devotion to sports, Boma's tenure as the Commissioner of Sports for Rivers State saw him championing pivotal milestones for the state. Notably, he was crucial in successfully hosting the 17th National Sports Festival, the "Garden City Games." His leadership acumen caught the eye of the then Governor Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, leading to multiple stints as Commissioner, first for Sports and later for Local Government Affairs.
Hon. Boma Iyaye's impeccable reputation and passion soon captured the attention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Recognizing his dual expertise in accounting and dedication to youth development, President Tinubu appointed him to the eminent position of Executive Director for Finance and Administration at the NDDC.
Today, as he navigates the intricate responsibilities of this new role, his core values remain unchanged: to elevate the Niger Delta's youth and forge a path of hope and prosperity. An avid sports enthusiast and devoted family man, Boma's life is a harmonious blend of personal joys with his beloved wife, Joy, their children, and a professional journey dedicated to the betterment of the Niger Delta community.
Source: NDDC Official Website.
Revered Alabo Iyaye : The foremost Ogu Kingdom Politician and Philanthropist; and has maintained a high profile, interacting with both big and small in our beloved Ogu and is a blessing to the Ogu kingdom for the peace and fast development .He also remains one of the most recognizable personalities and voices in Wakirike se and in Rivers State. His story serves as a testament to his resilience and patriotism to the ordinary citizens. We loved you Se Alabo for your integrity.
Jinbobaraye Karibo , (Jinbobaraye Karibo-Nelson)
Jinbobaraye Karibo , (Jinbobaraye Karibo-Nelson) as a Baby Boy this historical photograph taken by late Saa I. Nangibo.
The image of the original black and white pic is a powerful reminder of the legacy of human life. beautiful to see my baby photo: Kudos to my late beloved Parent.
This Photo was taken 2024 at the iconic Ecumenical Centre, Abonnema Wharf Road ,Port Harcourt; during the day vigil and reception of the father of Col. Benson retired, late Elder Jonah Dick Benson Iboroma's burial aged 98 years.
Growing up in the 1970s, I witnessed Ogu Island stand tall as a beacon of peace—not just in the Wakirike -se clan of the Eastern Ijaw, but across the old Rivers State. Under the leadership of our then-Regent, Chief James Kalaonye Ebenezer Opudere , widely known as JP played a central role in promoting peaceful dialogue, mediating conflicts, and hosting peace negotiations with neighboring communities in other Local Government Area's that shaped the course of rapid growth.
Ogu kingdom was not just known as a peaceful kingdom; it was the might of the Wakirike in bravery and development.
Only those of us who grew up in the village understand what this is. if you think I'm wrong then
Prove me wrong of the skill of the rural women.
L-R: Clay pot for preservation of drinking water in the kingdom and Clay pots used for traditional musical instrument during famous Iria ceremony, Owuapu Ogbo ( men group) and Eremoni-ogbo (women social group). In Okrika clan ,it was only Ogu Town that produces it in Offiamani Group of Houses as trade. Since late 80's the last aged woman from Ngbeka family when she passed away the trade seized till date. Mama Ngbeka contributions to molding of Clay pots will be always remembered and will be deeply missed.
source: Jinbobaraye Karibo-Nelson
Inherited from my late mother Madam Tamunoene Sunday Bennett Opuda.
Source: Jinbobaraye Karibo-Nelson
Charcoal Iron used by Tailors, boarding and day Students in dormitories, then day students are very few before the proliferation of communities secondary schools in Rivers State.
School sandal called Cortina produced by Bata shoe company Popular among Nigerian Students in the 1970-80's
This copy is mine (Karibo Jinbobaraye ).
KIRIKENI Go Diri 1 by Promise T.J Kalio of Rivers Readers Project in conjunction with Ministry of Education Rivers state and Institute of African Studies ,University of Ibadan UI.
My Culture My Pride
Cultural display by young vibrant girls’ showcase of tradition, identity, and communal pride. Held at the main town Square Ama -ogbo, the event attracted people from all walk of life.
Ogu Jean carnival is a show to unify the community. Location: Round About off Civic Arena, Ogu Town. Pic Ibibofori
The phrase "God created Ogu, but the people made it" suggests that while God may have established the foundation or basis of a place or community (like Ogu Town), it is the actions and contributions of the people within it that bring it to life and make it what it is. This is similar to the concept that people are responsible for the success and development of their communities, even if the initial conditions were divinely established.
An Wakirike man throwing a fishing net onboard hand pulling wooden canoe and woman paddling in the creeks.
Salt water Tilapia Fish called Atabala in Wakirike
Two children onboard dugout wooden hand pulling canoe.
Mangrove forest locally called Angala. 
This how they preserve Tin milk years back.
Brass rings worn by Iria apu ,young girls in fatting room in Ogu and Okrika during the Iria maiden ceremony of womanhood.
Source : WAKIRIKE NATION: Ijaw Matters View Point, May 2025
Year 2023, Iria Ceremony in Ogu Town, Ogu/Bolo LGA, Rivers State of the Wakirike people of the Eastern Ijaw of the Niger Delta Region in Nigeria.
The annual event brings together and celebrate virgin girls from October to December.
Amazing Ekpo Masquerade displayed in Ogu Townsquare locally called Ama-ogbo 30 Dec 2024.
Ogu Jean carnival is a show to unify the community. Location: Round About off Civic Arena, Ogu Town. Pic Ibibofori
The phrase "God created Ogu, but the people made it" suggests that while God may have established the foundation or basis of a place or community (like Ogu Town), it is the actions and contributions of the people within it that bring it to life and make it what it is. This is similar to the concept that people are responsible for the success and development of their communities, even if the initial conditions were divinely established.
Source: AI Overview.
Borokiri meaning fishing settlement in Ijaw language.
Traditional kerosine Tin lamp used as source of lighting for many homes yesteryears in Borikiri (fishing settlement) ,while some are still using it till date.
Blue Crabs inside Handmade Round Rattan Woven Basket.
It can be used for holding fishes, fruits, vegetables etc .Once plentiful in the creeks of Ogu, the number of blue crabs has significantly reduced because of the pollution and the destruction of the environment in recent times.
The blue crabs can be cooked and eaten whole, very delicious seafood.
Only few people will understand this items.
Tilley lamps is a kerosene pressure been used by the who's who in Ogu during the colonial and post Independence era.
Owugono Ama, a satellite of Ogu kingdom , opposite is Onne/Ikpokiri Oil and Gas Export Free zone in Ogu creek area in Rivers state.
May her soul rest in perfect peace amen
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