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Renowned Journalist, Prince Edun Akenzua Passes On

A renowned journalist and Fellow of Nigerian Guild of Editors, Prince Edun Akenzua, Enogie of Obazuwa-Iko, has joined his ancestors. His passage was announced earlier today, August 22, 2022, by the Royal Family.

Late Edun Akenzua was a seasoned journalist and pioneer Editor of the Nigerian Observer Newspaper when it was established in 1967 by the then military administrator, late Brigadier Samuel Ogbemudia.

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He will also be remembered as an author of several books and for his prolific public commentary writings on diverse cultural and political issues.

Until his death, he was an undeniable elder statesman and a member of the Order of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (MFR).

Born on September 15, 1934, into the Royal Family of the Great Benin Kingdom, the eloquently bold, audacious traditional ruler was a dependable voice at critical period when the Benins needed to speak with one voice.

He was a reservoir of Benin history and a reflection of unadulterated cultural values. Calm in speaking, but was resounding with his independent objective reasoning.

Exactly one year ago, the late Enogie, driven by his forward-looking interest, urged Edo State Government to honour those who fought for the creation of Edo State – 36 years ago.

He recalled how his brother, the late Oba Erediauwa of Benin, the Esama of Benin Kingdom, Gabriel Igbinedion and the then Senate President, Dr. Joseph Wayas and others lead the push for creation of Edo State.

He explained that Oba Erediauwa inaugurated the Edo State movement following the agitations for creation of states by ethnic nationalities in Nigeria and that, in Bendel State, Aniocha, Anioma and Delta, each demanded for their respective states.

Akenzua said the demand for various states didn’t bother Oba Erediauwa but the desires of those clamouring for new states to annex parts of Edo State.

Akenzua said with the view of finding a lasting solution and preventing other states from annexing the state, Erediauwa invited 11 traditional rulers and 35 prominent Edo sons and constituted them into steering committee with the Oba acting as the chairman while Odion Ugbesia acted as secretary.

Akenzua said it was imperative for people to know those who fought tirelessly to achieving the present Edo State.

He narrated the role played by Gabriel Igbinedion, saying he singlehandedly paid the sum of N50,000 for the launch of the Edo State Movement which later led to the creation of the State.

He added that “…it is necessary to tell this story in full because most Edo people and Nigerians do not know the genesis of the formation of Edo State.

And on that occasion, as he did most times, Prince Akenzua also advised Edo youths not to allow themselves to be used to destroy the state, noting that the future belongs to them and added that peace is needed to move the state forward.

His Royal Highness, Prince Edun Akenzua, the Enogie of Obazuwa-Iko died at the age of 87 years old.

Journey well my Prince!!!

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