Delta Monarch Seeks More Federal Presence, Apology For 1967 Asaba Massacre

The Asagba of Asaba, Obi Prof. Epiphany Azinge, has called on President Bola Tinubu to increase the federal government’s presence in Delta State, highlighting key areas of concern, including the absence of a federal university in Asaba and the need for an official apology for the 1967 Asaba massacre.

Speaking to journalists  at the State House in Abuja on Thursday after a courtesy visit to the President, the traditional ruler praised Tinubu’s leadership, describing him as being on the right path despite the complexities of governing Nigeria.

“There might be some hiccups, but on the whole, we score him highly in that regard, and we pray for him,” Prof. Azinge said.

“It is a very difficult country to govern. There will always be criticisms here and there, but I believe he is on the right track, and we wish him the very best.”

The Asagba stressed the need for stronger federal presence in Delta State, particularly in the state capital. He noted that Asaba remains the only state capital in Nigeria without a federal university, describing it as a “worrisome”oversight.

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“Asaba remains the only state capital in Nigeria without a federal university. We need institutions in our locality, and that for us is a major concern,” he said.

Another key issue raised during the meeting was the 1967 Asaba massacre, in which hundreds of civilians were killed by federal troops during the Nigerian Civil War. The traditional ruler urged the federal government to formally acknowledge the incident and consider issuing an apology.

“Among other requests, we mentioned to him the massacre of Asaba people in 1967 and that our people need some apology if need be in that regard,” he stated.

Prof. Azinge also took the opportunity to express appreciation for various federal projects currently underway in Delta State, particularly the construction of an access road to the Niger Bridge and the routing of a gas pipeline through Asaba and Awka.

“Secondly, we acknowledged and appreciated some of the gestures extended by the federal government to our area, especially the access road to the Niger Bridge and the passing of a gas line through Asaba to Awka, all of which are in progress,” he noted.

Describing the visit as both a “thank you” and a “solidarity” meeting, the Asagba also expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for sending a delegation led by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, to represent him at the burial of his predecessor, the 13th Asagba of Asaba.

“So, on the whole, it turned out to be a wonderful visit. He appreciated our coming and indicated that whenever he visits the South-South, he will make a stop in Asaba,” Prof. Azinge concluded.