It was a gathering of who is who in Etche ethnic nationality as all and sundry gathered at ‘Obiri Etche’ to mark the maiden celebration of Etche Memorial Day.
Ogbakor Etche (the apex sociocultural body of Etche ethnic nationality) is headed by its President General, Sir Machy Nwodim.
Sir Nwodim, said the idea behind the celebration is to keep records straight and to encourage other Etche sons and daughters to be steadfast and resilient in any aspect of life they find themselves.
Speaking at the occasion, Hon. Jerome Amadi Eke (Member Representing Etche/Omuma Federal Constituency at the national assembly) said the occasion is worthwhile and should be organised from time to time so as to bring the people of Etche ethnic nationality together.
He said the ‘Ogbakor Etche’ is doing a good job by not politicizing its modus operandi. He said although he is a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), he is always willing to identify with the Etche people not minding the political party one may belong.
Receiving a posthumous award on behalf of his late father, Eze J. H. E. Nwuke, as the unifying force of Etche, Barrister Azubuike Nwuke, said that he is filled with joy and expressed optimism, saying that ‘Ogbakor Etche’ has reawakened the spirit of ‘Etcheness’ in every well meaning members of Etche ethnic nationality by posthumously awarding his father an award well deserved of him.
The Etche ethnic nationality is the third largest ethnic nationality in Rivers State and the second place crude oil was discovered in Nigeria in commercial quantity and has one of the best crude oil in Nigeria at Umuechem community but erroneously called ‘Bonny light’.
Speaking shortly after receiving his award of Excellence for grooming and nurturing Etche people in politics, Chief. Allwell Onyesoh, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, expressed satisfaction for the unity returning to the people of Etche ethnic nationality.
Chief Onyesoh, further advised that Etche politicians should learn to play politics without bitterness as it will not help foster peace and development in the senatorial district.
