His Royal Majesty, Obi (Prof.) Epiphany Azinge (SAN), the Asagba of Asaba, has called for the establishment of a dignified national monument to honor the victims of the Asaba massacre. He reiterated that the people of Asaba are entitled to an official apology from the current Nigerian president for the tragic events that unfolded during the Nigerian Civil War.
During a solemn ceremony on Tuesday, which marked the 58th anniversary of the October 7, 1967 massacre where hundreds of Asaba citizens lost their lives, the monarch led thousands of natives in remembrance. He appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to formally commemorate the victims and ensure their legacy is preserved.
In his address, the Asagba urged the President not only to issue a formal apology but also to establish a Federal University in Asaba as a lasting tribute to those who perished.
At exactly noon, a minute of silence was observed under the Asagba’s leadership to pay homage to the victims, whom he described as “genuine martyrs whose sacrifice nourished the land and fueled the city’s development and prosperity.”
“What was once a modest riverside town along the Niger has evolved into one of the most rapidly expanding capitals, not just in Nigeria but across sub-Saharan Africa,” he remarked.
“The progress of Asaba is deeply rooted in the bloodshed of our ancestors 58 years ago. These martyrs are integral to our identity, representing the closest link to our heritage. As we offer libations today, we honor their spirits as revered ancestors,” he added.
“It is imperative that we erect a fitting memorial in their honor. The Nigerian government owes us an apology, and the creation of a Federal University here in Asaba would be a meaningful tribute,” he emphasized.
Chief Chuck Chukwuemeka Nduka-Eze, the Isama Ajie of Asaba, also spoke at the event, describing the remembrance as “a vital and historic gesture of respect.”
“From this day forward, Asaba will observe a minute of silence every October 7 at 12 noon to pay respect to those lost in the massacre. This will be accompanied by a 21-gun salute as a mark of our collective reverence,” he announced.
Chief Nduka-Eze further revealed that this annual commemoration will be officially incorporated into Asaba’s cultural calendar.
“We have long sought to raise awareness about the massacre, and now it is time to formalize this remembrance within our city’s traditions,” he stated.
“During our meeting with the President, we presented all our concerns. While he did not comment directly on the Asaba massacre, it does not imply ignorance. Our remembrance is not fueled by anger but by solemn reflection, as it is our duty to honor those who have passed,” he concluded.
