History, Origin, Culture and Traditions of Adazi-Nnukwu town in Anambra state

 
Adazi Nnukwu is making significant strides in grassroots development across the villages that make up the town, located in Anaocha Local Government Area. The progress witnessed in the region politically, socially, and economically can be largely attributed to the efforts of the people of Adazi Nnukwu. While some of the projects have been supported by the Anambra State government, as well as corporate and church organizations, the contributions from the local community have been crucial.

This progress serves as a model for other towns, local government areas, and even states in Nigeria. Contributions, ideas, and photos about Adazi Nnukwu in Anaocha LGA are welcome and much appreciated. We encourage you to share your thoughts as we continue to highlight the amazing developments in this beautiful town. Udo dili unu!

Our journey through Adazi Nnukwu, a town in Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State, brought us close to the border of Agulu, the hometown of Peter Obi. To the west, Adazi Nnukwu is bordered by Oraukwu, to the north by Nri and Nimo, and to the south by Obeledu and Neni towns.

The town's beauty and serenity are a sight to behold. 

Adazi is made up of three towns

Adazi-Enu

Adazi-Ani

Adazi-Nnukwu


Adazi-Nnukwu, one of the seven sons of Okotu, is part of a larger group that includes Adazi-Enu, Adazi-Ani, Ichida, Obeledu, Amichi, and Osu. According to historical records, these towns are all descendants of Okotu.

Nnoli Ezenne, a direct bodyguard to His Royal Highness Ogbuefi Ojiako Ezenne (1857–1944), is pictured above. Ojiako Ezenne was appointed by the colonial government to serve as Warrant Chief from 1914 to 1921, and as Paramount Chief from 1921 to 1944 in Adazi-Nnukwu. During this period, the new colonial government recognized the ancient ruling families in the area, based on Ofo seniority across villages. Ojiako Ezenne, the holder of the Ofo Ozo Okpalaekili (the oldest Ozo title in Adazi-Nnukwu), became the first African to serve as President of the Agulu Customary Court in 1914.

Before becoming a Warrant Chief, Ojiako Ezenne had already served as clan chief of Amolu Clan, the senior clan in Adazi-Nnukwu, from 1907 to 1914. He was a contemporary of other Warrant Chiefs such as Muoyekwu Onyiuke of Nimo, Amobi of Ogidi, and Nnama Orjiakor of Nibo. Ojiako Ezenne was recognized for his excellent leadership, and on February 1, 1915, he chaired a meeting of 45 Warrant Chiefs in Southeast Nigeria, which enacted laws that abolished slavery in the region. This law put him in direct conflict with the Aro slave traders.

Ojiako Ezenne had a remarkable personal life, with more than 37 wives and 86 children. Among his children was Okamigbo Ojiako, who served as Nigeria’s first Ambassador to Germany and became the second Igwe of Adazi-Nnukwu. Another son, Obudume Ojiako, succeeded him as the third Igwe (Adama) of Adazi-Nnukwu. A sister, Mbafo Ezenne, was married to the late Amanyanabo Owokori VII of Abonnema. Ojiako Ezenne was also related to the Aro politician Igwegbe Odum.