History of Akpo kingdom

THE MAN AKPO In the beginning of beginnings, a man who is still believed to come from Nri, Settled in the South East of district of Aguata, to be precise at AKALABO; in the heart of a town called Amesi by circumstances of birth and history.

This man whose name was Umennebe Dike has three sons- Amesi, who was the first, Akpo, the second and Ebele as the third and last child. Ebele's name signifies the level of consolation his father receives owing to his long expected birth.

Being the first son, Amesi occupied the Obi as tradition warrants in most parts of Igbo land, and Umennebe Dike thereafter blessed him with knowledge of herb and there natural importance.

Akpo, the second son, who so much took after his father in strength and knowledge, became the police of his father's empire. He supported his father in his works, especially farming. In his fathers absence, it was said that she spearheaded the inter- tribal, war against Ahafia and Aro people.

 Due to his strength, his father love him so much that he called him, Akponnaya; which means the strength of his father. Umunnebe Dike, before his death, allotted the northern part of his kingdom, which was believed to be more volatile than any other part to Akpo.

This he did considering the level of hostility that was coming from that part of his domain. The southern part of the kingdom, now Achina, was allotted to Ebele. Akpo married two wives, Eziamaka and Ihiteama.

Eziamaka had the first son for him called Oguerinam, while Ihiteama had the second son called Onyeanusi. At the appointed time, Oguerinam got married and had three son's namely Okpala-Okworo, Okpalaradoshi and Ezedike.

 These three son's of oguerinam constituted the present Ezi group of villages in the town, namely Agbelu, Uhuala and Umueze. Onyeanusi on his part also hard three son's, Dimegoro, Ezemegwara and Ezeoyeashi.

They were the father of the present Ihite Group of villages up of Ogbo, Amaife and Udo respectively. Consequently, it is the son and the daughter of these six villages that make up the present Akpo town. LOCATION Akpo is within the heart of Igbo land, in the south- Eastern part6 of Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State.

The town is bounded by Achina, Nkpologwu, Ogboji, Aguluezechukwu and Amesi at all the possible angle of the town. Akpo has an estimated population of about 50,000 people. THE PEOPLE AND THEIR CULTURE. Akpo has a rich cultural heritage, which the people still preserve to a large extent despite the influence of western civilization and religion.

A lot of effort is being expended in trying to preserve this culture considering the rate at which western civilization eroding Igbo culture and principles generally.

Some still persist. However, among the visible traits that are still remaining are: THE OZO TITLE: The Ozor Title was the most expensive and sacred cultural practice of the people of Akpo.

 From time immemorial, before a man decide to take this title, he must have considered his wealth status, which then was measured in terms of one number of cattle, fowls, size of his barn, economic tree and farm land Before a man takes the Ozor title proper, he initiated into the folk by the preliminary "Igbuichi".

This involves tattooing of his face, after which the man kept indoors until the wounds heal, which may take up to a month or more. After the tattooing comes the next stage, "Isupu Oko"; which is followed by the other rite before the final outing ceremony, igba nkwa; usually, the man who performs these rite also perfumes those of his wife or wives simultaneously if he is married.

When the woman rite the woman's right re completed, she take lolo ad the tiger "when the woman's rite ade completed. She takes lolo as the title.

RELOGIN: Before the advent of Christian Region Akpo people worshipped some gods and goddess as obtained in other parts of Igbo land. 'Nkwo' and 'Ala' were generally worshipped by the entire Akpo people, but 'Ogovu' was worshipped by Agbelu Village, Ezenyebu by Uhualla and Ogbo worshipped Udo-akwa.

Umueze Village Worshipped Okwara, Amaife Worshiped Udo-Nkpukpo and Udo worshipped Ogwugwu-udo. Worshipping of this gods and goddesses usually go along with big festivals, which would start from the seventh month of the Igbo calendar (around September).

This was usually the period of test after heavy planting and harvesting season. The festival use to come one after the other with Nkwo coming first then Ala and others.

Another important god was Ezeokoro it was normally celebrated on the ninth month, before ogwugu, which was celebrate on the eve Ezeokro. During these celebrations, outstanding masquerades and dances perform.

 Among the masquerades were otiwaudummiri, Oganachi, Igbohulukwe, Aliaku na Olueji. Anyagharaigwe, Ohiaagbara, Ajaewunataede and other's while dances included Obodo-Idu, Ukondurugbo and other female dances.

THE ADMINISTRATIVE SYSTEN: Akpo Community, like the English system, has duel administrative arms of government, which ensure effective and efficient management of people and materials in the town.

While there is the dynasty, which is made up of the Igwe of Akpo and his Cabinet, who are the prime of custodians of the people's culture and tradition, there is also the Development Association headed by a President General. This is a political class that runs the day-to-day affair of the town.

 THE POLITICAL SYSTEM: The people of Akpo and Achina towns express and demonstrate their brotherhood birth, which came as a result of their ancestral history.

Their relationship went deeper that it extended to marriage to the point that it was widely said and accepted that "nwa ebighi Akpo, obiri Achina", which was interpreted as a true daughter of her parents must get married in Akpo or Achina.

 That was understanding was strengthened and in 1928 the brotherhood gave birth to a union that governed the joint affairs of the two towns. The union, which was know as Akpo and Achina Combined meeting (AACM), had the late Okpalaugo from Achina as its first chairman, while the late Prof. S.O. Orajaka became the first secretary.

The union was in full control of the Mbara Orie market, which includes supervision of the feeling of trees at the market. Regrettably however, the union failed to function because the chairman, the late Okpalaugo failed to obliged to a fine charged him by his task force on oil spillage at the market. Still haunted by the spirit of brotherhood, in 1938, the late Mr. Jonathan Nnaike and Moses Ezekwudo, both of Akpo, spearheaded a union to reconcile the two towns, but their effort yielded no fruit.

 When it became clear that the two towns could no longer come under one umbrella, Akpo people, on the 31st of December 1941, gathered at St. Paul's School compound and founded the Akpo progressive Union (A.P.U) for the furtherance of the town's socio-political well being.

A.P.U had Misters J.C.I Okpala and P.I. Oyemobi as its first president and secretary general respectively. The union became effective and concerned itself with the education of Akpo children. Through the programmes of the union, a lot of Akpo indigenes completed their secondary school education, while some were sent abroad to further their education on scholarship.

In its general election in 1949 the late J.C.I. Okpala was returned unopposed, while the later, the late P.I. Onyemobi took over the mantle once again as the secretary general from Pro. Orajaka. In 1962, following a change of government, the late Chief C.D Jones Okpala became the president general, while Onyemobi remained the secretary general.

 However the change in power could not help in bringing the people together due to some squabbles already existing in the union. Meanwhile, A.P.U. ceased to exist following the ban on unionism by Federal Government of Nigeria in July 1966 following coup de tat. In the interim, an Ad hoc Committee for the Renaissance of Akpo (ACRA) was set up.

The chairman of ACRA was Fabian Anosikwa with Godian Ezulike as the secretary. The committee met in various towns outside Akpo such as umuahia, Enugu and Onitsha. And following their series of meetings, Akpo Development Association (A.D.A) was born to replace the defunct A.P.U. when the ban on unionism was lifted after the civil war in 1970. A.D.A. had its first President General in the person of Mr. A.C. Ogamba, while Mr. C.I. Ononamadu became the secretary general.

 After the civil war, the administrative structure set up by the then military regime allowed the existence of country of county councils, which stood as arms through which the Divisional Headquarters (now Local Government Areas) related with the communities/towns under them.

Each Town County Council was presided over by a chairman appointed from the community and a secretary posted to the town's country from the Divisional Headquarter. Though town unions existed along side the Country Councils, as it was the case in Akpo, somehow, the council officials were more overt in the day- to-day running of their communities than the town unions.

This was due to their links with the government of the day. With this arrangement, Akpo County Council had its chairmen in such person as Mr. Solomon Okpalaji, Philip Ezeocha, Charles Ezenwata, Julius Patrick Dim (Jupa Dim). But with the abolition of the county system in 1976, town unionism became as strong as it were. The Administration of A.C. Ogamba was responsible for the building of the community Secondary School Akpo. Meanwhile, after the reign of Mr A.C. Ogamba and C.I. Ononamadu as president and secretary general of A.D.A Sir E.O. Emeh and Dr.

James Obi Okpala took over the mantle of leadership as president and secretary general respectively. Their tenure was abruptly interrupted and the Lagos Branch of A.D.A took over as Caretaker Committee in 1990. And their major contribution was the electrification of the town. The Assistant Chairman of A.D.A Lagos, Emeka igwe, was to head the Caretaker Committee with Mr. Emezie Ezeonwuka as the secretary. Their achievements include the re-roofing of Akpo Town Hall. They also initiate the registration of Akpo Community Bank.

The Caretaker Committee later handed over to Nze C.N. Okechukwu as ADA President General with Augustine C. Mbah as General Secretary after a general election was conducted.

The major achievements during this regime were the formal opening of Akpo Community Bank. After the C.N. Okechukwu regime, Sir E.O. Okpalanwa took over the seat of the President General, with Eugene Okpala as general secretary.

They made plans and buried the late Igwe Umeuzuegbu and worked hard to re-roof the Community Secondary School. Sir E.O. Okpalanwa handed the baton to Mr.Dom Ezeukwu (JP), who became the president general with Prof. Peter Nnabude and Martin Ezeomedo as secretaries.

Their major achievement was the settlement of the accumulated debt from the immediate past regime. They also reduced the tension that was generated by the hurriedly quest for a new Igwe. The incumbent regime is under Chris Akpunonu as the president general with Mr. Edwin Okpala secretary.

The achievements so far have been captured in the President's address. THE DYNASTY THE Akpo Dynasty is as old as the town itself and was the main stream of governance before the advent of the colonial's masters.

The Akpo Dynasty is headed by the Isi Obi, Who has a cabinet made up of Ndi Ichies; The Ichies are made up of six Isi Obis from each of the villages that make up Akpo. However, depending on the arrangement at a time, other prominent members of the community could be appointed from the villages based on merit to join the Ichie Council.

 They form the team with which the Igwe rules the town as well as maintain and preserve the traditions and culture of the people. In modern day Akpo Community, the Igwe features more on the ceremonial occasion like presiding over the New Yarm Festival.

 It was this traditional institution that His Royal Highness, Igwe B.O. Umeuzuegbu, the Nnamoshimiri 1 of Akpo, held until his death. CHRISTIAN RELIGION In 1914 through the concerted efforts of some Akpo and Achina indigenes the first Christian Church came to the town under the church missionary Society and was named St. Peters (C.M.S)Church Akpo and Achina.

Few years later, the Catholics came in too, and St. Paul Roman Catholic Mission was born in the town. Today, there are many other Christian bodies in the color of Pentecostal, evangelicals, white garment churches etc. dotting different corners of the town with about 98% of the entire community as Christians. THE ECONOMY In the early period, Akpo people were mainly farmers who had to show their wealth by the size of their barns.

People who had large numbers of economic trees like palm tree (nkwu) and breadfruit (ukwa) were also considered as wealthy people. Women on their part showed their wealth by farming on cocoyam and cassava.

 Then, the people who do not have enough farmland or yam seedlings would go to neighboring\ distance places to farm in order to generate money for livelihood. In about 1900, some Akpo indigenes started to venture into place like Onitsha (Ose) to work as casual hand. Such people became a great source of influence that caused Akpo youths to start moving to abroad.

Among the early adventurers were the like of the late J.C. Okpala, whose success encouraged the youths to learn trades. Many others came out successfully through this influence, people like the late Francis Ezeuduji, who traded on palm produce, the late Chief C.D Jones Okpalaejiaku, who was internationally renowned teacher, banker, contractor and astute businessman, among his likes were the late Chief Felix M. Obidima, an aggressive businessman and contractor and late Mr. Julius Patrick Dim (Jupa Dim), who was one of the earliest travelers to the far northern part of Nigeria; he got himself established in Kano and drew some notable Akpo indigenes to that city even before the Nigerian civil war, Akpo did not stop at business. In 1955, the town jointly sent one of their sons, the late Prof. S.O. Orajaka, to overseas to study on scholarship.

And on his return, he became the first indigenous dean on the faculty of Geological Sciences at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Since then, Akpo has produced a lot of people in different spheres of academic disciplines. Today, there are many professors and heads of institutions from the community. In the area of trading, up till 1940's and beyond, Akpo people had by history dealt mainly on grains produce, but today, the sons and the daughters of the town are in every sphere of human endeavour controlling major items of trade.

 At Coker Market in Lagos, Nigeria for example, Akpo sons are in control of building material section, initiated by people like Mr. Stephen Umenze, Mr. Vincent Anudu and Nze Alfred Okechukwu to mention but a few. At Agarawu, still in Lagos, the tools business is also being dominated by Akpo indigenes following the pace that was set by people like Mr. C.Y. Igwe. In Enugu, the influence of Chief A.A Dim in the tools business is still at its firm grip. While one will also not forget the influence of Akpo sons on motor parts initiated by the Willow Brothers and the astute acts of people like Chief Rommy Ezeonwuka and Nze Chuma Obi at Nnewi.

 These are early mentors greatly influenced the drift of the indigenes from civil service to commercial ventures. Affairs with our neighbouring towns because there were incessant wars coming from all the comers of the towns.

They were natural peace keepers which reflected in their individual households. They were great men indeed. There is no living member of the NDIDI age grade at present.

Community Development and Human Resources in Akpo: A Historical Reflection by Nze Paul Mokwe

This paper briefly dwells on historical facts about the Akpo/Igbo man’s character, socio-cultural, religious, and economic values—values that sustained the Igbo people despite numerous obstacles. This background is intended to aid a better understanding of these humble submissions.

THE IGBO VALUE SYSTEM (PRE–BIAFRAN WAR)

The Akpo and Igbo man of old believed strongly in:
• Human resources development  
• Economic and socio-cultural values  
• Security of lives and property  
• Community development and togetherness (Onyeaghananwanneya)

These values were built, protected, and supervised through hierarchical leadership systems starting from:
Nuclear families → Extended families (Imennes) → Kindreds (Umunnas) → Villages (Ogbes) → Town Unions → Igbo Nation.

These structures served as the administrative and governance channels of the Igbo people before the Nigerian Civil War. Following the 1966 coup and the Civil War, regional constitutions were abolished and replaced with centralized military decrees. Igbo town unions, socio-cultural organizations, and leadership structures (including ADA and similar bodies) were proscribed.

This deliberate suppression weakened cohesion and slowed development in Igboland through denial of critical infrastructure such as seaports, airports, gas pipelines, and independent power generation.

As a result, over 70% of the Igbo population now live outside Igboland. Many post-war youths lost touch with Igbo cultural values, resulting in weakened cohesion, moral decline, and social instability.

CENTRALIZATION OF POWER AND ITS CONSEQUENCES

The imposed centralized system—alien to Igbo republican culture—introduced governance by a few individuals rather than collective consensus. This system, rooted in non-Igbo political traditions, has entrenched corruption, abuse of power, and a “get-rich-quick” mentality, especially among the youth.

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND OF AKPO

Akpo Town has from time immemorial been blessed with patriotic citizens. Through the age-grade system—from Akataekwe age grade to Ngbenabia—Akpo recorded milestones in community development, security, education, religion, and boundary integrity.

KEY PRE–CIVIL WAR ACHIEVEMENTS

1. St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Akpo, was dedicated between 1957–1958. It was among the first modern church buildings in the old Onitsha Archdiocese. Rev. Fr. O’Neil chose St. Paul’s Akpo to celebrate his mother’s memorial Mass in 1963/64, hosting priests and religious from the entire Eastern Region.

2. Akpo Town Hall was constructed and commissioned in 1962/63—one of the first in Aguata Division—later renamed the Hall of Peace in the early 1990s.

3. Akpo jointly sponsored overseas education for two eminent sons:
   • Prof. Steve Orajaka  
   • Barrister G. Offor  
   Both were warmly received by the entire Akpo community on their return in 1962/63.

4. Amaife Catholic Community (CMO – Nzuko-Nka-Eke) established a revolving loan system in the mid-1960s, benefiting several sons before the Civil War.

5. Apprenticeship (Igbo-boyi) and skills transfer systems flourished across trades.

ENGINEERING AND CONSTRUCTION SECTOR

Sir J.C.I. Okpalanaechedo was the pioneer and mentor who trained Akpo’s first generation of civil engineers, including:
• Ichie Christopher Okpalobi (Ichie Ohiehi I of Akpo)  
• Pius Ezeobi (We We Nwaezeobi)  
• Sir Norbert Okpalalupuo  

Subsequent generations of Akpo civil engineers passed directly or indirectly through these men.

TRADING AND DIASPORA PIONEERS

Kano Sector:
• Chief C.D. Jones Okpalaejiaku  
• Jupa Dim  
• J.K. Okpala  
Kano became the earliest Akpo diaspora hub.

Jos Axis:
• Fredrick Dimakunne  
• Emmanuel Obika  
• Clement and Cletus Dubu Obika  

Onitsha:
• Ichie Benson Okpalezechaa  
• J.A. Nwangwu  
• Jonathan Okpala  
• John Umezinwa  

Port Harcourt:
• Sir A.A. Dim  
• Surveyor Goddy Ezeonyebuchi  
• James Okpalaunegbu  

Akure:
• Nze Fidelis Umennaka  
• Bernard Ezeorizu  

Lagos (First Generation):
• Sir F.M. Obidinma – pioneer Akpo patriot and prominent Igbo leader in Lagos.

POST–CIVIL WAR REBUILDING

After the war, Chief C.D. Jones Okpalaejiaku convened a general meeting at Akpo Town Hall in early 1970, motivating idle and traumatized youths to venture out, assuring them that the war had truly ended.

SECOND DISPENSATION OF DIASPORA EXPANSION

Benin City:
• Nze Emmanuel Obi (E. Marshall) – pioneer in building and plumbing materials  
• Sir E.O. Emeh – retired as Super Permanent Secretary in Bendel State  

Yola:
• Chief Anthony Anyika – first Ezendigbo in Yola and Adamawa State  

Lagos (Second Generation):
• Nze Simon Ezeomedo  
• Ichie Cletus Ezechiedo  
• Nze Anthony Cletus Ezeanosikwa  
• The Mazi Brothers  
• Anthony Ejimkonye Ume – oil tanker transport  

THE FOUR WISE MEN OF AKPO (LAGOS)

• Chief Alfred Okechukwu (Chinemere)  
• Nze Oremus Ugokwe  
• Stephen Umenze  
• Chief Vincent Anudu (Ikenga – Late)  

These leaders pioneered Akpo dominance in plumbing materials trade nationwide.

AKPO DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION (ADA)

By 1976–1983, ADA was formed and executed landmark projects:
• Community Water Project (ADA-mmiri)  
• Electrification Project (ADA-oku / AREP)  
• Roads, erosion control, health, and educational initiatives

CONCLUSION

Akpo remains one of the most development-conscious communities in Aguata and Anambra State. Despite achievements, more work remains—especially in education, skills acquisition, and human capital development.

Akpo’s Development Constitution assigns clear duties to families, kindreds, villages, and town union organs. With committed leadership and unity of purpose, Akpo can sustain progress.

We believe the newly elected ADA executives are equal to the task.

Paul Mokwe  
Amaife, Akpo  
Lagos Branch

AKPO TO THE WORLD by JERRY AMUZIE OKPALANEDU

SUCCESSION PLANNING, KEY TO FAMILY WEALTH CONTINUITY: A Case Study of Akpo. 

INTRODUCTION. 

For any particular organisation to stay long in business, there should be what is called succession planning. And what is succession planning? Succession planning is having a backup plan for an organisation when the leader of the organisation takes a bow. It is a strategy companies use to identify and develop future leaders to replace current leaders when they leave, retire, or move up. With this, the organisation in question continues to remain alive. 

Succession planning in our local context often focuses on grooming family members or trusted individuals to ensure the continuity and sustainability of the family business. It involves taking the business left behind by the parents to the next level by the remaining members of the family. 

This write-up attempts to x-ray succession planning as key to family wealth continuity with particular reference to our town, Akpo. It reveals how succession planning worked for the past generations only to elude the current generation due to excessive material quest. It gives the way forward and the roles of the community, and concludes with the collaboration between the families and the leadership of Akpo.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION. 

Before the 1960s through to the late 1970s, Akpo people had small-scale to medium-scale family-owned enterprises. In the same way, there were some people in the vocations and professional services, etc.

Below is how the situation was then:

In the area of small-scale businesses (buying and selling) were the following: Late Chief C.D. Jones Okpalaejiaku, Late Mr Anselem Dim, Late Mr Robinson Okpalaejiaku, Late Mr Vitus Ezearigo, Late Mr Basil Dimonyebara, Late Mr Marius Okechukwu, Late Mr Stephen Igwe, Late Mr John Umeh, Late Mr Nwachukwu Okpalaeze, Late Mr Jonathan Okpalaunegbu, Late Mr Isaac Onyemobi, Late Mr Fidelis Umeojirinnaka and Late Mr Simon Ezeomedo, etc.

In the area of agro-allied businesses, Akpo had viz, yam cultivation or "iko ji," animal husbandry - rearing of animals like chickens, cows, goats and sheep or "izu okuko, ehi, ewu na aturu" and butchery or "ogbuerighi." 

In yam cultivation, Akpo had the following people: Late Mr Okpalannabude Okpala, Late Mr Tobias Okpalandiokwere, Late Mr Julius Okpalaunanma, Late Mr Marius Okpalaonaku, Late Mr Gabriel Ozueh, Late Mr Josiah Dimobidieje, Late Mr Ejike Umeh, Late Mr Nkachukwu Nkpawu and Late Mr Chibueze Okpalanwaka, etc.

In the area of animal husbandry/related businesses, the following names were prominent: Late Mr Okpalaku Okpalaejesi, Late Mr Okpalarahu Okpalaonaku, Late Mr Andrew Nwosu, Late Mr Ezenwanne Eze, Late Mr James Ogamba and Late Mr Obijiofor Okpalobi, etc. 

Late Mr Nkwonwe Onuora and Late Mr Uwadineke Izunwanne Okpalaononobi, etc, were strong in butchery services. 

In the oil palm plantation/palm produce sector, there were: Obi Akpo, Obijikwa Okpalaebibisiaku and his younger brother, Chief Sebastian Obiadaubu Okpalaebibisiaku featuring prominently in oil palm plantation. Whereas in the palm produce sector, Late Chief C.D. Jones Okpalaejiaku was very prominent. 

In the art and craft, there were: Late Mr Okpalannadi Okpalanbanaso, Late Mr Onwuharaonye Anyaeche Dim and Late Mr Obuekwe Emeh, etc.

In the printing business, there were the following: Late Mr Patrick Jupadim, Late Mr Peter Izuazi Onyemobi and Late Mr James Ogamba, etc. 

In professional services like teaching, Akpo had come up with the likes of Late Prof. Stephen Orajiaka, Late Mr Peter Izuazi Onyemobi, Late Mr Philip Dim, Late Mr Charles Ezenwata, Late Mr Emmanuel Okpalike, Late Mr Charles Ononamadu, Late Mr Sylvester Ezenwata, Late Mr Joseph Ilonuba, Late Chief Sebastian Obiadaubu Okpalaebibisiaku, Late Ichie Philip Ezeiruaku, Late Mr Jonathan Dim, Late Mr Asiegbu, Late Mr Ferdinand Izuakam Offor, Late Mr James Odiegwu, Late Mr Solomon Okpalaji, Late Mr James Ogamba, Late Mr Cosmas Okpalannajiaku, Late Mr Joseph Mbene, Late Mr Charles Dim, Late Mr Reuben Ezenwajikwa, Late Mr Bernard Okpalaonyiwara, Late Mr Christopher Okpalire, Late Mr Andrew Unachukwu, Late Mr Hyacinth Okpalaelibe, Late Mr Godian Ezeonwuka, Late Mr Martin Ezeomedo, Late Sir Edwin Okpalaejiaku, Late Mr Dominic Umeanozie, Mr Cletus Ilo (still alive and kicking) and Mr Gilbert Okeke (still alive and kicking), etc. 

In the construction industry (building/civil works), there were: Late Chief Jacob Okpalanechedo, Late Chief Felix Obi, Late Sir Nobert Okpalalupue, Late Mr Christopher Okpalobi, Late Mr Rommy Okpalaozigbo, Late Mr Reuben Okpalaemeghara, Late Mr Thomas Ebube, Late Mr Celestine Unachukwu, Late Mr Nkachukwu Ikunna, Late Mr Gabriel Ozueh, Mr Anthony Okpalaima (still alive and kicking), Late Mr Robinson Ike and Mr Sylvester Nzenenwu (still alive and kicking), etc.

Late Mr Michael Orajaka, Late Mr Akpunonu Ike (who later became a sanitary officer), Late Mr Ibeanusi Ezenduka, Late Mr Nnadiekwe Okpalaonyiwara, and Late Mr Alaemene Nweze, etc, were the people to beat in the area of road maintenance (civil works).

Late Mr Ezennedueme Ezeuduji and Late Mr Obed Ebube, etc, were into block making. 

In the haulage sector, the following names featured: Late Mr Josiah Okpaluba, Late Mr Alabude Mbigbo, Late Mr Dominic Okpalaku, Late Mr Ernest Oraukwu, Late Mr Sebastian Okpalanwa, Late Mr Anyalebechi Okpalaejiaku, Late Mr Philip Ebube, Late Mr Titus Ononuju and Late Mr Emmanuel Obieri, etc.

In the quarry business, Obi Akpo, Obijikwa Okpalaebibisiaku was prominent. Late Mr Onwubuemeri Onyesiyabana Okpalanyim also had a good showing in this area.

In the timber/related businesses, featured prominently were: Late Mr Benard Ugokwe, Late Mr Ikedionwu Ezennaya, Late Mr Elenmuo Alagba, Late Mr Amanchukwu Dim and Late Mr Bennedict Okpalaokechukwu, etc.

In the carpentry/joinery works, prominently featured were: Late Mr Fabian Oraukwu, Late Mr Christopher Dimnwajiobi, Late Mr Aaron Onyebuchi, Late Mr Elebeke Okpalataghasi, Late Mr Cletus Okpalaegwuonwu, Late Mr Edmund Okpalaima and Mr Leonard Ononamadu (still alive and kicking), etc. 

In the fashion designing area, Akpo had the likes of Late Mr Bartholomew Dimukeje, Late Mr Joseph Anyarowusi, Late Mr William Okpalachukwu and Late Mr Gibbon Okpala, etc.

In the mechanical sector (bicycle/motorcycle maintenance and tinkering business), prominently featured were: Late Mr Peter Ifesie, Late Mr John Okpalaemeghara, Late Mr Ihekwoaba Dim, Mr Thomas Umeiguegbe (still alive and kicking), Mr Mathias Unachukwu (still alive and  kicking) and  Late Mr Gabriel Okpalannuozo, etc.

In the photography industry, there were the following: Late Mr Michael Nnabuike and Late Mr Damian Umenduka, etc. 

In the area of propaganda or information dissemination (ima egbe onu) were: Late Mr Gbajie Anyaeletu, Late Mr Albert Okpalachukwu and Late Mr Maduka Okpala, etc.

In the wine tapping business, featured prominently were: Late Mr Okwuegbule Okpalakunne, Late Mr Alaekezie Okpalanzenwozo, Late Mr Okpalaojimba Okpala, Late Mr Onyekesi Okpala, Late Mr Okpalaigwenagu Okpala, Late Mr Okpalachukwu Okpala, Late Mr Madueke Okpalanyim, Late Mr Okpalaunegbu Ike, Late Mr Raphael Dimonyebara, Late Mr Robinson Okpalanwagu and Late Mr Martin Okpalaonobi, etc.

From the 1960s to the late 1970s, the Igbo apprenticeship system "igba odibo" garnered momentum. This saw many Akpo people into buying/selling, vocations, and professional services. Many of the Akpo youths were seen joining their own brothers/families in trading and other businesses/professions. Then, there was a sense of succession planning, with the people bringing their own into their businesses, though it was very informal.

From the 1980s to date, succession planning and growth have been dying because of this current generation's big appetite for unacceptable, unaccountable, and questionable wealth, hence the beginning of the decline of sustainable family wealth succession planning and growth. 

THE CURRENT TREND.

Today, things have changed. People do not want to learn anything from the past. They want quick "everything." Brothers do not relate well with brothers anymore. Why? It is because of money! It is because of property! Who made all these things they are quarrelling about? The parents! How come about the fight?  It is because they are in a generation where there is no succession planning, that would guarantee them  a better future. 

The earlier folks knew what brotherhood was all about. They understood themselves and knew the need to help one another. There was the spirit of "onye hu, ya kara nwanne ya." Growth along family and relation lines was strong. That was why so many of them were found in several businesses/vocations/professions of their callings. The families were found in the areas where they were better gifted than the others, which is different from today's own that is patterned on dishonesty and deceit. Today, if a brother tells a brother his source of wealth, he is finished because the brother who collected the information would waylay him in that business. There has been a lack of trust in recent times that impedes growth and development. 

THE WAY FORWARD. 

As a people, there are certain things that are expected to be done to sustain family wealth growth and continuity? 

1. Early preparation: Our children should be prepared early enough for the work ahead of them. They should be groomed by their parents and made to understand that a particular business or vocation or service is the area of the family's calling, and therefore should be embraced by them.

2. Clear documentation: The children should be provided with the roles to play in the scheme of things. The parents should write down the processes and the decisions of the family for everybody to be aware of them. 

3. Capacity/capability focus: Attention should be paid to the capacity/capability of the people concerned. It should not be a matter of this is my first son, and therefore, he must handle this or that. The best fit should be the consideration. 

4. Stakeholder involvement: All the family members should be carried along in the affairs of the business or the direction the family is headed. Where the family is polygamous, all their representatives should be aware of the happenings in the business or what the family is doing. 

5. Regular updating: What kills every business or family setup is when members are tied to a single way of doing things. Family members should check when it is necessary to diversify in that area the family is known for and, at the same time, maintaining the plan.

WHAT SHOULD BE THE ROLES OF THE COMMUNITY.

For succession planning to work effectively in Akpo, the community has some roles to play. They include:

1. Support and resources: The families that are doing well in various endeavours can be encouraged by way of funding and encouraging them to move on with what they are doing. Supports can come from the influential members of Akpo.

2. Mentorship: The Akpo Development Association (ADA) can invite experienced business moguls to connect with such families to give them more ideas for improvement. For those who are into yam cultivation, the ADA can invite agricultural extension workers for them to improve their yields. 

3. Partnership: The ADA can call some of these families who are into one vocation or the other to collaborate o
r form partnerships for government recognition. 

4. Akpo community through ADA can, from time to time, organise some seminars and workshops to make the people understand the need to focus on those opportunities that the families are capable of displaying their potential. Those who are good in civil service, buying/selling, vocations, and others should be encouraged. 

CONCLUSION:

In conclusion, Akpo as an emerging town in this 21st century should as a matter of fact be able to produce leaders in various areas of human endeavour if really the families cooperate with the leadership of our town. The youths can easily be fixed properly where they are supposed to be. Families will be proud of their contributions to themselves and the community. With all this, what hopes!

Peace!

JERRY AMUZIE OKPALANEDU, LAGOS. 

January 2026.

POSTINOR 2 (Levonorgestrel)

LET US TALK ABOUT POSTINOR 2 (Levonorgestrel)

The truth is, many women use Postinor 2 in panic, confusion, and fear.

Some take it twice in one month.

Some take it around ovulation and remain worried afterward.

This post clearly answers the following questions:

What exactly is Postinor 2 (levonorgestrel)?

Is it safe to take Postinor 2 twice in one month?

What problems can occur if it is used too often?

Can Postinor 2 work if taken on ovulation day?

What are the chances of avoiding pregnancy if taken on ovulation day?

What Is Postinor 2 (Levonorgestrel)?

Postinor 2 is simply a brand name.

The actual drug it contains is levonorgestrel.

It is an emergency contraceptive, not a regular family-planning method.

It is meant for unplanned situations, such as:

condom breakage

missed contraceptive pills

unprotected sexual intercourse

It is not designed for routine use.

Is It Safe to Take Postinor 2 Twice in One Month?

Yes, Postinor 2 can be taken more than once in a month if necessary.

It does not damage the womb and does not cause infertility.

However, it is not advisable to use it frequently because it can significantly disturb hormonal balance.

Simply put: the less often it is used, the better.

What Problems Can Occur With Frequent Use?

Frequent use may cause:

irregular menstrual cycles

delayed periods

heavy menstrual bleeding

spotting between periods

breast tenderness

nausea

hormonal imbalance

Some women may miss their periods for weeks and become anxious. In many cases, this is not pregnancy, but a hormonal disturbance caused by repeated emergency pill use.

So while Postinor 2 is not dangerous, using it repeatedly is not wise.

If you are sexually active often, you need a reliable contraceptive method, not emergency pills every time.

If Taken on Ovulation Day, Can Postinor 2 Still Work?

Postinor 2 works mainly by delaying or preventing ovulation.

If ovulation has not yet occurred, it can delay the release of the egg and help prevent pregnancy.

If ovulation has already occurred, Postinor 2 cannot stop the egg.

It does not kill sperm and does not reliably prevent implantation, so its effectiveness is greatly reduced once ovulation has happened.

What Are the Chances of Avoiding Pregnancy If Taken on Ovulation Day?

If the egg has already been released, the chance of pregnancy is high.

Some women may still not get pregnant, but Postinor 2 cannot be depended on at this stage.

This is why timing is very important:

It works best when taken as soon as possible after sex

Its effectiveness reduces the closer it is taken to ovulation, and even more after ovulation

General Advice

If you find yourself using Postinor 2 frequently, it is a sign that you should choose a safer and more stable contraceptive method. Discuss suitable options with a healthcare professional.

Emergency contraceptives are for emergencies — not routine use.

👉 Share this to educate someone.

— Pharm. Greatman

*HEALTH BENEFITS OF EATING DATES*

🔥💡 Awesome breakdown of the health benefits of dates! 🙌 Dates are a powerhouse of nutrients, and it's great you're spreading the word! 📢

*HEALTH BENEFITS OF EATING DATES*

Dates are like nature's candy, packed with benefits! 🌟 From boosting energy to supporting digestion and even helping in late pregnancy, here's why your body will thank you for adding dates to your diet:

🔑 *DIGESTIVE BENEFITS*: Dates are rich in natural fibre, helping your gut move smoothly and reducing constipation. They calm the stomach after heavy meals and ease mild bloating, supporting better digestion overall.

🔑 *ENERGY & BLOOD SUGAR SUPPORT*: Dates give quick but steady energy, reducing sudden sugar cravings. Perfect as a light snack before physical activity!

🔑 *HEART & GENERAL BODY HEALTH*: Dates contain potassium and magnesium, supporting heart health and strong muscles. Antioxidants reduce inflammation, promoting overall wellness.

🔑 *PREGNANCY & WOMEN’S HEALTH*: Eating dates in late pregnancy may help prepare the body for labour. They also provide energy and minerals supporting blood health.

🔑 *BRAIN & MOOD SUPPORT*: Antioxidants in dates protect brain cells and support memory. Natural sugars lift mood and reduce mental tiredness.

*Who should limit or avoid dates?*

People with diabetes, kidney issues, or those on low-carb diets. Also, be mindful of portion sizes due to high calorie content.

*Additional benefit*: Dates are a great natural remedy for constipation, especially for pregnant women or those with digestive issues. The high fibre content helps stimulate bowel movements and soften stool.

By Pharm Greatman 

ANDROPAUSE by Pharm Greatman

Andropause, sometimes called “male menopause,” is the gradual decline in testosterone that usually starts in men around 40–50 years. 

Unlike menopause in women, it happens slowly, and men can still father children even as their hormone levels drop.

🔑 SYMPTOMS TO WATCH OUT FOR

Men experiencing andropause may notice persistent fatigue, a drop in sexual desire, or difficulty maintaining erections. 

Mood changes like irritability, anxiety, or low motivation can appear, and concentration or memory may feel weaker. 

Some men also experience unexpected weight gain, often around the belly, or even hot flushes and night sweats.

🔑 BODY CHANGES

Over time, declining testosterone can affect physical strength and muscle mass, leading to a loss of stamina and energy. 

Bones can become weaker, increasing the risk of fractures, and body hair may thin. These changes can make men feel older than they are, even if they are otherwise healthy.

🔑 FACTORS THAT MAKE IT WORSE

- Lifestyle and health conditions can intensify symptoms. 

- Obesity, chronic illnesses such as diabetes or heart disease, smoking, poor sleep, and high stress all contribute to how severe andropause feels. 

-Even if testosterone is slowly declining, unhealthy habits can make symptoms more noticeable.

🔑 MEDICAL WAY

Doctors typically check morning testosterone levels and review symptoms over time. 

A thorough evaluation also includes heart and prostate health to ensure there are no hidden risks. 

It’s important not to self-diagnose, as many symptoms can overlap with other conditions.

🔑 MANAGING ANDROPAUSE

Lifestyle changes are key. 

- Regular exercise, particularly strength and endurance training, supports muscle and bone health. 

- Eating a balanced diet, getting quality sleep, and managing stress help reduce fatigue and mood swings. 

- Testosterone replacement therapy may be considered in some cases, but it carries risks such as heart problems or prostate issues and should always be guided by a doctor.

Depending on your overall health. These are the best food choices for men above 45

- Fish (🐠 salmon, mackerel, sardines)

- Chicken and eggs 🥚 

- Beans and lentils

- Leafy greens (🥬 spinach, kale)

- Berries and tomatoes

- Nuts and seeds (almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds)

- Whole grains (oats, brown rice, quinoa)

- Low-fat dairy (milk, yogurt)

- Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower)

Andropause is a natural part of aging for men, but it doesn’t have to take away quality of life. 

Understanding what’s happening in your body, making healthy lifestyle choices, and consulting your doctor can help you manage symptoms and stay confident.

Share to to educate someone

Pharm. Greatman