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Ikeji Aro Festival Celebrates New Yam Harvest And Aro Heritage Worldwide
Ikeji Aro Festival Celebrates New Yam Harvest And Aro Heritage Worldwide....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The Ikeji Aro festival is a vibrant celebration marking the bountiful harvest of new yam and the commencement of a new yam season among the Arochukwus, predominantly located in the southeastern part of Nigeria. This special and festive event, known as Ikeji Aro, is observed in the ancestral home of Arochukwu and on varying dates in Aro heritage communities across Igbo land, parts of Nigeria, the Cameroons, and related diasporan communities.
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From Los Angeles to Dublin, from Ihiala to Ndikerionwu, from Atani to Ajatakiri, and from Ajalli (Ujari) to Arondizuogu, the dedication of those sharing the heritage of the ancient Aro kingdom of Arochukwu is truly commendable. In September, the Ikeji Aro festival continues to be a prominent showcase of the enduring traditions of the Aro civilization, featuring a rich array of yam displays, masquerades, cultural ceremonies, diverse dances, and celebrations.
These foundational elements are deeply rooted in the Aro’s regal and diverse heritage, making Ikeji Aro a festival that embodies cultural, economic, and social significance, as well as synergistic capabilities. It serves as a global celebration of unity and strength for the Aro people.
Throughout history and across generations, Aro diaspora personalities and communities have played a crucial role as advocates for entrepreneurship, industry, progress, education, and fairness. They have contributed significantly to their respective communities, numbering at least 221 across the entire South East, South South, along the Benue River, and Nigeria’s Middle Belt.
To comprehend the rise of the Aro empire, the growth of the Aro Confederacy, and the consolidation of the Aro nation’s economic, cultural, spiritual, and political influence, one must recognize the role of the “Aro Uzo,” the Aro diaspora. Their administrative efficiency, occasional deployment of coercive power, and awareness of the ancient kingdom’s vast reach from Arochukwu contributed to these achievements.
Despite challenges at home and abroad, the Aro identity and purposes have remained steadfast, championed through joyful affirmations and authenticity. It is vital to encourage reading of books that delve into Aro history and civilization, such as those by scholars like Prof. Kenneth Onwuka Dike, Prof. Adiele Afigbo, Prof. Okoro Ijoma, and Mazi O.P Kanu, among others.
The diaspora Aro, who permanently settled in new homes outside Arochukwu, have made significant contributions, establishing over 200 Aro settlements between AD 1650 and 1900 in southeastern Nigeria.
Looking ahead, it is essential to empower a new generation of visionaries and AI scientists who can advance the Aro Civilization and Identity, transcending historical descriptions. The Aro heritage has a rich history that extends beyond its roles as a “slaving oligarchy” in the 18th and 19th centuries.
In the words of Jay-Z, a prominent hip-hop mogul and artist, “Identity is a prison you can never escape, but the way to redeem your past is not to run from it, but to try to understand it, and use it as a foundation to grow.” Embracing and utilizing the Aro identity can help navigate a changing world.
In conclusion, as custodians of the Aro civilization, it is crucial for the Aro people to champion and preserve their heritage in a world undergoing transformation. “Aro oke Igbo, nma nma nu o!”
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NBA ELECTION SHOWDOWN: Osigwe Defies AGF, Declares Attorney General Powerless To Stop Polls!.
Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, Afam Osigwe (SAN), has firmly rejected recent calls from the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), to postpone the association’s national elections. Osigwe asserted that the AGF lacks the legal authority to dictate or alter the NBA’s electoral process, warning that doing so would undermine the independence of the legal profession and breach the association’s constitutional framework.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The controversy stems from the AGF’s advice that the NBA suspend its July 18, 2026, polls, dissolve its current Election Committee, and implement the National Identification Number (NIN) for voter verification. During an interview on Arise News this Friday, Osigwe clarified that while the AGF’s opinions are noted, they are not binding directives. He emphasized that the NBA is governed by its own Constitution, the Legal Practitioners Act, and other established regulatory instruments—none of which grant the AGF power to intervene in the association’s internal affairs.
“Suggesting that he [the AGF] has the power to postpone our elections would imply that the NBA is merely a department under the Office of the Attorney General,” Osigwe stated. He noted that while the Bar is open to considering advice, it cannot comply with “must-do” directives that conflict with its governing laws.
Upholding Constitutional Eligibility and Opposing External Impositions
Osigwe also addressed ongoing debates regarding zoning and consensus candidates. He maintained that the NBA Constitution clearly defines the criteria for presidential aspirants, requiring candidates to be at least 15 years post-call, have served on the National Executive Council for at least two years, and be fully up-to-date with their practice fees and branch dues for the preceding three years.
He rejected attempts by external interest groups to force their preferred candidates upon the association, calling such actions illogical. “They accuse the Bar of various things and turn around to accuse others of trying to impose a candidate, when they are actually the ones imposing a candidate,” he remarked. Osigwe underscored that any member who meets the constitutional requirements is entitled to run for office, regardless of endorsements from external bodies.
Commitment to a Transparent Process
Regarding the upcoming election, the NBA President defended the inclusivity of the race, noting that the presence of a female candidate highlights the association’s commitment to equal opportunity.
To ensure credibility and transparency, Osigwe confirmed that the NBA has invited international and civil society observers—including the EU and Yiaga—to monitor the process. Addressing skeptics who fear electoral malpractice, he insisted that all concerns have been thoroughly addressed to build trust.
“Everything is in place, and the electoral body is ready to conduct it,” Osigwe said. He concluded by urging all aspirants to focus on the polls rather than seeking delays: “Go out there and test your popularity; don’t drag the association down or tarnish people’s images. May the best man or woman win.”
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At the Lagos parallel market, Bureau De Change (BDC) sources reported that the dollar was selling for ₦1425 and buying at ₦1412.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
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It is important to note that these figures may fluctuate, and the actual rate you encounter when buying or selling forex can vary from these prices.
Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Rates
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The CBN rate for the dollar against the naira recorded a high of ₦1382 and a low of ₦1378.
Important Regulatory Note
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The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) does not officially recognize the parallel market. The bank has instructed individuals seeking to conduct foreign exchange transactions to utilize their respective banks instead.
Source:
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Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has mourned the passing of Professor Turner Isoun, a former Minister of Science and Technology, honoring him as a distinguished scholar whose legacy in education, science, and national growth remains lasting. Professor Isoun, a renowned expert in veterinary medicine, passed away in Abuja on July 15 at the age of 87.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Governor Diri, through his Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah, highlighted several aspects of the late statesman’s life and career:
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Academic and Public Service Excellence: Governor Diri described Isoun as an intellectual giant whose contributions impacted both academia and the public sector. As the pioneer Vice-Chancellor of the Rivers State University of Science and Technology, he was credited with establishing a strong foundation for the institution.
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Scientific and Technological Leadership: During his tenure as minister from 2000 to 2007 under President Olusegun Obasanjo, Isoun championed significant reforms. He was instrumental in creating the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and Galaxy Backbone Plc. Additionally, his leadership was central to Nigeria’s early milestones in space technology, including the launch of satellites like NigeriaSat-1 and NigComSat-1R.
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Commitment to the Niger Delta: Isoun was deeply involved in the socio-political development of the Niger Delta. He served as the Ijaw National Congress Central Zone Chairman and was a key advocate for the creation of Bayelsa State in 1996.
Governor Diri extended his sympathies to the Isoun family, the Odi community, and the broader Ijaw nation, encouraging them to find solace in the professor’s remarkable life of service and dedication to national progress.
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