Under the impressive glow of decorative string led lights at the Prime Chinese Restaurant in Lagos, a symbolic evening unfolded, honouring the life of the legendary Eze Aro, Eze Kanu Oji. Following the captivating theatre performance of “Uda Nkwa” at Terracotta, guests were invited to indulge in a delightful refreshment spread, graciously hosted by Princewill Utchay, the group’s chairman.
As the night progressed, vibrant Aro cultural dances intertwined with the rhythmic steps of Urhobo performers, led by Olorogun Oskar Ibru, who energized the atmosphere, compelling guests to their feet. The celebrations echoed the rich cultural heritage of the Aro kingdom, known for its spirit and unity.
The event held a sentimental significance, marking not just a celebration of the current Eze Aro, but also serving as a poignant reminder of a gathering from 24 years ago. On March 12, 2001, the then Eze Aro, Eze Ogbonnaya Okoro, CFR, was warmly welcomed here, initiating the Aro 2002 Centenary Commemoration of the Aro-British War.
Now, celebrating the iconic Eze Kanu Oji, who ruled for an astonishing 73 years (1914-1987) and was amongst the first traditional rulers conferred with Nigerians National honours at inception in 1964, the night felt like a beautiful continuum of tradition and respect for leadership. Eze Kanu Oji, CFR, CON, OBE, a figure enshrined in respect, represents more than mere lineage; he embodies a legacy deeply intertwined with the nation’s history.
He was hosted by three Nigerian heads of state across decades, Tafawa Balewa in 1965, Olusegun Obasanjo in 1976 and Ibrahim Babaginda in 1986, adding to the weight of his reign and the significance of this night. His Eminence Dr Eberechukwu Oji, the grandson of this revered monarch, carries forth not only his ancestral legacy but also the hopes of his people. “It is a unique moment for us,” Princewill Utchay remarked during his opening address, “not merely to celebrate a king but to honour the greatness that has united the Aro kingdom and the larger Nigerian community”
Prime Chinese Restaurant plays a pivotal role in this tradition, ensuring that heritage is celebrated amid the culinary delight they provide. Beyond the cultural festivities, the evening highlighted Eze Aro’s remarkable contributions to the oil industry and his recent engagement at the World Bank/IMF session in Washington, where he advocated for sustainable solutions in Africa’s energy sector on October 22, 2024. His journey from the oil fields to esteemed leadership presents an inspiring narrative, resonating with both local and global ambitions.
This gathering was not for lengthy speeches, as emphasized by the host, but rather to express gratitude and respect for Eze Oji’s commitment to unity and development and to pledge our total support and loyalty to His Eminence Dr Eberechukwu Oji, Eze Aro. As the first grandson of Mazi T.K. Utchay the designer of Omu Aro, the coat of Arms of the Aro kingdom in 1925, it is traditional that I align myself with this great king of our time.
Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, a venerable elder of the kingdom, led the opening prayer, invoking blessings for peace and prosperity in Nigeria, a heartfelt moment that resonated with everyone present. In her vote of thanks, Prof. Ngozi Osarenren passionately reaffirmed the night’s purpose: to celebrate unity and the bridge-building efforts of Eze Eberechukwu Oji. Within just a year of his ascendancy, he has been pivotal in forming the Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council, forging alliances among various traditional leaders amongst whom are the Oni of Ife, Dein of Agbor, Jaja of Opobo, Obong of Calabar, Obi of Isingwu, Elegushi of Ikate, Olofin of Isheri, Alara of Ilara, Amanyanabo of Abonnema, amongst others.
As the evening drew to a close, Eze Eberechukwu Oji expressed deep appreciation for a Prime Chinese Restaurant that has consistently served its customers with excellence for over three decades, twenty-four a day, seven days a week, inviting all Aro people to come together for communal growth and development. In the spirit of the night, the echoes of the Drum, laughter and music intertwined with promises of a united future, celebrating not just a lineage but a shared vision of greatness that transcends boundaries. The legacy of Eze Aro continues to thrive, reminding all present of the rich culture and relentless spirit of the Aro kingdom and its importance in the tapestry of Nigeria’s history.
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