The Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, FCA, has been commended for being a strong advocate for the preservation of African culture.
The commendations were made on Saturday at Isumpe, Utagba-Uno, Ndokwa West Local Government Area of Delta State when he attended the Iwaji (New Yam) festival of the community.
An elder statesman, Rear Admiral Mike Onah, OON (rtd), stated at the occasion that Deltans and Africans in general are proud of Sir Onyeme’s efforts in promoting African culture.
He observed that the Deputy Governor is always proud to identify with events that promote African culture.
”We are proud of you, our son, Sir Monday Onyeme; we are happy that you are using your position to project our culture, our people, we are proud of you,” Rear Admiral Onah said.
He added, “in our custom, you must celebrate the New Yam Festival before you eat new yam; with the festival, we thank God for the harvest.
”In the past, we did not have a Deputy Governor, but today, we are celebrating Iwaji and in our midst is our Deputy Governor.
“Our culture cannot be allowed to go into extinction, so, we must continue to celebrate what we are known for.
”We are collectively saying ‘thank you,’ our Deputy Governor, for displaying in practical terms that you are our son.
“It gladdens our heart that though, you are educated, you are at home with your people and love African culture, we love you and we will continue to support you.
“The issue of electricity which is generating issues is a general problem in Nigeria, and we are happy with the role that you are playing as the Deputy Governor of Delta State; may God continue to bless you, our Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme.”
A renowned politician, Engr. Dan Ossai, who played host to the Deputy Governor at his residence in celebrating the New Yam Festival, stated, “Our Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, has been very exceptional in supporting our culture.
“We thank him for what he is doing.”
Some of those who accompanied the Deputy Governor to Isumpe include the Senior Policy Adviser to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Rt. Hon. Funkekeme Solomon, Bar. Sam Osasa, Chief Festus Ochonogor, Chief Obi Nzete, Engr. Gabriel Amuchi, Hon. Azuka Azaka, Sir Christopher Osakwe, Surveyor Godday Aboh, among others.
