Elizabeth Vincent, Yenagoa
The fifth edition of the Engenni National Thanksgiving day was held at Akinima, the headquarters of Ahoada West Local Government Area, over the weekend. The event emphasized that for Engenni to move forward, there must be unity.
The event, which was attended by prominent traditional rulers from Ekpeye Kingdom, including the Eze Ekpeyelogbo, Eze Kelvin Anugwo, and the Eze Igbu Upata, Eze Felix Otuwarikpo, had the theme for this year: “YIRA WUZE,” meaning “Stand Strong.”
In an interview, the Okilomuibe of Engenni Kingdom, HRM Moore MacLean Ubuo, described the event as unique, as it reminded him of the oath of office he took as the Okilomuibe III of the kingdom. “I promised to lead the people with the fear of God Almighty. I vowed to defend and serve the people under God’s guidance, and that is why my crown and throne were dedicated to God on that day,” he said.
The monarch called on the state government to establish a medical hospital, emphasizing that Ahoada West is the only local government without a proper medical facility. “The only one we have is a makeshift ‘muturay.’”
He further urged the state government to construct roads linking the various communities, reconstruct schools, and equip them to modern standards. He noted that the people of Engenni have been isolated due to constant perennial flooding.
HRM Moore MacLean Ubuo also urged everyone present to embrace God and serve Him in truth and spirit. “There is no god beside the Almighty God who created the heavens and the earth,” he declared.
The monarch highlighted that Engenni had witnessed tremendous growth and development in recent years. “Many of our sons and daughters have received unprecedented promotions in their workplaces and businesses, including the Nigerian military,” he added.
Also speaking, Pastor Ogulu Precious Tom, Chairman of the Organizing Committee, reiterated that the Engenni people do not worship any deity but serve God Almighty. “This is why it is important for all sons and daughters of the kingdom to join hands and give thanks to God.”
On his part, Apostle Joel A. Harcourt, Coordinator of the Engenni Ministers’ Forum, emphasized that there are no shrines in the Engenni territory. “We only serve God Almighty. This event began when HRM Moore was sworn into office, and it has since become a yearly tradition. People often claim they weren’t invited, but a child does not need an invitation to his father’s house,” he said.
Additionally, the Chairman of the Engenni Eminent Persons Group, Dr. Sokari Chuks, stressed that what Engenni needs the most at this moment is unity.
