“…I need your support and I pledge inclusive leadership for the development of Orogun”- Opone
“…I will establish the Ndakara Emerging Leaders Award in his honour.”- Chief Efe-Nogo JP
By Foster Akpore
Orogun Kingdom, Delta State – In a heartwarming ceremony held on Saturday, September 21st, 2024, the people of Orogun Kingdom in Ughelli North LGA, gathered to honour Chief Barr. Benson Onoharigho John Ndakara, the immediate past President-General, for his remarkable leadership and unwavering service to the community. The event was filled with glowing tributes and heartfelt gratitude, attended by traditional leaders, community members, and esteemed guests from across the region.
In his welcome address, Chairman of the Reception Planning Committee, Adjerese (Barr.) Oghene-Meshach Anuku, highlighted the kingdom’s gratitude for Chief Ndakara’s selfless contributions and visionary leadership, which advanced numerous development projects in Orogun. He described Chief Ndakara as a beacon of hope, emphasizing the integrity and commitment he demonstrated during his tenure. A key moment of the event was Anuku’s proposal to establish an annual “Benson Ndakara Day” dedicated to community leadership training, honoring Ndakara’s enduring legacy.
Born on October 1, 1960, to a family deeply rooted in Orogun’s cultural heritage, Chief Ndakara’s journey to leadership was shaped by hard work, community service, and dedication. From humble beginnings, he rose to become a respected legal scholar and leader, earning degrees from the University of Port Harcourt and Lagos State University, along with rigorous law enforcement training with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
During his tenure as President-General from June 2016 to June 2024, Chief Ndakara spearheaded several development projects, including the construction of roads, NYSC lodges, and staff quarters for Orogun Grammar School. His commitment to education, youth empowerment, and healthcare was evident in the numerous scholarships awarded to students and the establishment of critical infrastructure to support the community.
In a related development, the incoming President-General, Chief (Barr) E.T. Opone, has called for support and urged the sons and daughters of Orogun to prioritize unity. He promised to include women, youth, and vulnerable members of the community in his efforts to build upon the legacy of Chief Ndakara.
In his words, “I recognize that I cannot succeed in this role alone. I need the support of each and every one of you to make our kingdom stronger. I pledge to listen to all perspectives and consult widely before making decisions, and this will be reflected in the formation of my cabinet which will be strategically positioned for effective service delivery in the best interest of our people. I will ensure that the voices of our women and youth, including the voiceless and vulnerable are heard and that they are fully involved in the development of Orogun.
“I must also express my profound appreciation to the immediate past President General, Chief Barr. Benson Ndakara, for raising the standard of leadership in Orogun. His dedication, wisdom, and commitment to our kingdom have left an enduring legacy, and I will do my utmost to build upon the solid foundation he has laid”, Opone further said.
In his address, Chief Do-Good O. Efe-Nogo (JP), Onotu-Uku (Traditional Prime Minister) of Orogun Kingdom, described Chief Ndakara as a leader sent by God. “His tireless dedication to the progress of Orogun has been unwavering,” Chief Efe-Nogo stated. “Today, we honour not only his past achievements but also his contributions to the future of this kingdom. During my tenure as Onotu-Uku, I will establish the Ndakara Emerging Leaders Award in his honour.”
Chief (Dr) Edwin Achugbue described chief Ndakara as “a man of many parts. He has united Orogun and fostered development as a community developer and philanthropist. More importantly, during his tenure as PG, he has brought peace like a river and provided scholarships to many Orogun indigenes. I pray for the Lord’s blessings upon him and hope that his successor will continue in the same spirit.”
In his response, Chief Barr. Benson Ndakara expressed profound gratitude to God and thanked his family, especially his wife, for their support during his tenure as President-General. He felt honoured by the event, noting it was the first time a President-General had been celebrated in such a manner, and he pledged to continue serving Orogun Kingdom. He shared that he brought his son, a law student, to witness the occasion and emphasized his new role as Chief Adviser on Legal and General Matters, promising to promote peace and avoid unnecessary litigation. He concluded by thanking everyone, including members of his exco for their support and attendance.
The event had in attendance the Okpara-Uku in Council, Chiefs, showcased a variety of highlights, including cultural dances performed by women and the Ukere cultural troupes from across the kingdom. Additionally, a portrait of Chief Ndakara was unveiled, and awards were presented to him and other deserving sons of Orogun. Honorees included Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, Chief Do-Good O. Efe-Nogo (JP), Chief A.K. Osawota, Chief Pius Ovbije, Chief Magistrate Enakpodia, Dr. Otive Igbuzor, Sir Felix Osawota, Adjerese O.M. Anuku, and Chief Ken Enwefah.
The successful event was chaired by Barr. O.M. Anuku, with Barr. Dennis Warri, Secretary and Chief (Dr.) Felix Edeki serving as PRO, with generous donations from sons and daughters of Orogun from Nigeria and in the diaspora.
Several subcommittees were also involved:
Security Committee: Barr. Dennis Warri (Chairman), Chief Paul Okogu, Dr. Felix Money
Publicity Committee: Chief Edeki Akporugo (Chairman), Eddy Odivwri (Co-Chairman), Chief Beauty Ubogun-Nze, Foster Akpore, Chief Solomon Awero, Chief Akpede, Eric Okunima
Food Committee: Odiri Awero (Chairperson), Ovoke Itebu, Orogunfere Okpako, Felix Ogbajini, Chief Mrs. Ese Osawota,
Drinks & Water Committee: Hon. Eliot Odiushovwi (Chairman), Felix Ogbajini, Chief Henry Itedjere, Chief Theodore Efemuai
Protocol & Venue Committee: Sir Felix Osawota (Chairman), Ebu Joe, Hon. Adugbo Friday, Ochuko Ugeh
Dr. Edwin Achugbue, Chief Ken Enwefah