By SAM DUVWODE
The Acting Governor of Delta State, Barr. Kingsley Otuaro has said there cannot be meaningful growth in infrastructure, economic and education without peace in the various lands.
The acting governor stated this yesterday at Government House, Asaba, when he receive on courtesy call members of the Organization for the Advancement of Anioma Culture, (OFAC) led by Arc. Kester Ifeadi.
Barr. Otuaro, who receive members of the organisation on a congratulatory visit, commended OFAAC for what it stand for, which is building unity bridges in the State, noted that one cannot add value to people without building their culture.
He disclosed that one of the cardinal point of Senator (Dr.) Ifeanyi Okowa led Delta State Government articulated programmes is building peace in the State.
While thanking the OFAAC members for the pains and time taken thus far their support and initiating the election congratulatory visit as well as to informed the state government of its coming festival and cultural day, Barr. Otuaro urged the group to stay in tendem with what the leader has said about OFAAC.
Earlier, the leader of the group, Arc. Kester Ifeadi disclosed that on Easter Monday, April 22, 2019, in Asaba, Delta State, the Organisation For the Advancement of Anioma Culture (OFAAC) will once again bring together friends, sons and daughters, arts and culture as well as enthusiasts of Anioma to a beautiful display of Anioma cultural heritage at the Anioma Cultural Festival.
Arc. Ifeadi noted that, the festival of dance, music, fashion and other creative arts of historical values which have continue to serve as a rallying point for cultural renaissance and the unification of Delta’s diverse population, has become an upstage event for the people and stakeholders.
He added that the collective shared sense of responsibilities in the development of arts and culture is gradually evolving into an oak.
According to him, there is no doubt, Anioma is known for its peaceful disposition with so many value system and as such, people need to co-exist in love for the common good of all.
“Our goal is to help preserve, promote and advance the appreciation and development of the rich cultural heritage of Anioma people and Nigeria in general”
“There are so many exciting ideas turning into a reality because of the vision and enthusiasm people at the grassroots including royal monarchs continue to have for ensuring their communities are part of OFAAC activities and ultimately get the attention they deserve”. Ifeadi stated.
Arc. Ifeadi asserted that, Anioma Cultural Festival is deeply rooted in communities in Anioma lands, saying that the people take pride in their legendary traditional attires, dance, music, historical artifacts/crafts and cuisine.
He noted that, the Festival which is usually presented as an avenue to entertain diverse audience of culture enthusiasts and music lovers are exposed to the rich heritage of the Afro-centric nature of Anioma dance art.
“The festival is today reputed as the finest cultural event in Delta State attracting sons and daughters of Anioma both at home and in the diasporas in addition to thousands of festival attendees each year”. He said.
Other top dignitaries present at the congratulatory visit include; the Delta State Commissioners for Information Hon. Patrick Ukah. Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Emma Chinwe, Commissioner for Youths Development, Hon. Karo Iloilo, the Senior Special Adviser to the Governor of Interrelated Peace Building, Hon. Edwin Uzor, the State Deputy Chief of Staff Hon. Steve Eruotor, the Senior Special Adviser on Chieftaincy Affairs Dr. Emaize Peter among others.
While on the OFAAC team were the Traditional Rulers of Akumazi, Ewulu and Ubolunor.. The team also include Mr Andy Obi who is the Coordinator of OFAAC among others.