Asaba is a metaphor … regarded by many as a renegade part of ibo land, by others as “not ibo enough” yet by others as an “unworthy state capital”. Yet we thrive, we live, we grow… they cannot cross over “to their side”, because of IPOB, yet we accommodate them, bearing no grudges.
Asaba is home, Ahaba okwe says welcome to all. Asaba is a destination, yet a link and a thoroughfare to anywhere else in the Niger Delta.
I schooled at Asaba, Saint Patrick’s College in the late 70s, it is true, people were massacred and their remains thrown into mass graves, graves that were like mounds within our school compound.
We don’t cry anymore, we just say a quiet prayer in our hearts for the repose of the souls of the brave men and boys who were unjustly murdered. May their spirits and the spirits of our ancestors continue to guide and guard our land… Ahaba ibokwe!!!! Asaba is home, was yesterday and will continue to be home.
Our white cloth … traditional attire will remain radiant and bright against the backdrop of our red clay soil… reminding us that beauty and brightness will always rise up out of the violence that’s crimson red.
Anonymous
Asaba written and directed by Prof Ahmed Yerima will play Lagos Dec 2025 and may tour Asaba
Thanks
Duke of Shomolu
Last modified: June 1, 2025
