This Article Contains The Following:
1. Background
2. Location
3. Origin
4. Migration
5. The Coinage "Ozo-ubulu"
6. Etc
Background:
Ozubulu is among the richly endowed towns in Anambra state located in Ekwusigo LGA and shares border with Nnewi, Okija, Oraifite and Ihembosi. Every town in Anambra state has it's own history which influences it's image.
Founder of Ozubulu town:
Ozodumekwu (also known as Oza/Ozo). Son of Eze-Imo (believed to be one of the descendants of Eri "Dabarwo")
Nickname:
"Ana Akpu" probably from the name of thier ancient diety "Ogwugwu Akpu".
Origin:
The origin of Ozubulu can be traced to the 16th century around the Omambara River in Agulueri, present-day Anambra State, Nigeria. During this era, Ezimo, one of the descended sons of a prominent Chief Priest, Eri was gaining significant social influence and political momentum. As his influence grew, he became apprehensive about his safety within the Omambara riverine community. Ezimo, had a priest dwarf named Akanhi who served as his political advisor. This priest dwarf counseled Ezimo and his followers to cross over to the other side of the Niger, where the indigenous people might be more accommodating and conditions more favorable for consolidating his political power.
At the narrowest point of the Niger in the Omambara area, a large "Akpu" (Silk) tree, suffering from erosion due to the encroaching river, stood. The priest dwarf established a shrine under this Akpu tree, where he performed rituals and prayers for Ezimo's welfare. When the eroded Akpu tree fell across the Niger at its narrowest point, the priest dwarf advised Ezimo and his followers to cross to the other side using the fallen tree trunk. Upon crossing the Niger, Ezimo, his family, and followers interacted with the receptive peoples of Ubulu Okiti (Wine Tapper), Ubulu Uku (the political headquarters of Ubulu), and Ubulu Uno (the religious headquarters of Ubulu).
The Ubulu people welcomed Ezimo and his fellow migrants warmly, and his advisor Akanhi, the priest dwarf, suggested that Ezimo take the Ozo title in Ubululand, which he accepted. At Ubulu Uno, the revered Udo shrine was worshipped by all Ubulus. Ezimo was blessed with a son, whom he named Ozodumekwu. Ezimo and his followers participated in Ubulu politics while maintaining their historical identity, unity, and solidarity. Due to the Obi of Ubulu Uku's close relationship with the Oba of Benin, the Oba provided him with weapons, resources, and logistical support, enabling the Obi to wield significant political influence and lean toward autocracy.
The other Ubulus gradually grew wary of him. Following Ezimo's passing, Ozodumekwu assumed leadership of his father's group and adopted the title Ozo (some referred to him as Oza). As Ozo matured, he became a strong and fearless individual, eventually challenging the authority of the Obi of Ubulu Uku. This led to tension between him and the Obi. Upon learning of the Obi's alleged plan to eliminate him, Ozo mobilized his supporters, and together they began to rediscover their ancestral roots, tracing their history back across the Niger River, from where they had initially migrated to Ubululand. They also sought to reconnect with their kin in Ubulu who had previously made the same journey (specifically, the Ubulu Ihejiofor and Ubulu Isi-uzo).
The Name "Ozubulu":
During their perilous crossing of the Niger, Ozo, famously known as Ozo Ubulu (a name that would eventually evolve into Ozubulu), devised a plan to use Akpu fruits as makeshift floats, tying them together in bulk to aid their passage. Before this daring escape, a wise priestly figure, a dwarf, provided them with a piece of Udo chalk, wrapped in cloth to conceal it from potential foes, serving as a protective talisman for their journey. This sacred chip was referred to as Udo Ekwulu, with "Ekwulu" signifying a protective covering. Nhike, one of Ozubulu's loyal followers and custodian of the Ana emblem, carefully carried this revered symbol throughout their arduous journey. As they prepared to cross the Niger using the Akpu trunks, apprehension gripped some of the group, with Oche-uche, a hesitant individual, voicing his doubts about the plan's feasibility.
The Akpu Tree:
Eventually, after crossing the Niger, the name Osuche was retained. Upon successfully navigating the river with the Akpu trunks, they decided to take a young Akpu plant, placing it in a clay basin, to accompany them to their new home. This gesture was a tribute to the Akpu tree that had played a crucial role in their migration across the Niger from Ubululand. The group's journey to the eastern side of the Niger was a success. After a long and arduous trek, they grew weary and stopped to rest. The spot where they rested was dubbed Oku-Akpu, named after the young Akpu plant in the clay basin that rested alongside them. Today, this spot is known as Oku Akpu, located within the Uzo-Olu farms.
The Earliest Settlers, Akputu and Ikono Inhabitants:
After resting, some of the travelers chose to set up camp in the area and decided not to proceed to Ubulu Ihejiofor and Ubulu Isi-Uzo. Ozo Ubulu and his companions, however, pressed on eastward, eventually reaching the present site of Ozubulu. They brought with them the sacred Udo Ekwulu and the young Akpu plant in its clay basin, while Nhike bore the revered Ana emblem. Upon arrival, they encountered people recovering from cerebral spinal meningitis – specifically, the Akputu and Ikono communities, who would later become part of the Ozubulu populace.
Today, the Akputu community resides in Enugu Ozubulu, while the Ikono people live in Nza Ozubulu. The Ana Emblem was raised at a site in Amakwa, which was subsequently named Ama-nhike in honor of Nhike. The young Akpu plant, once placed in a clay basin, was planted in a special location now known as Akpu Ozubulu, or Olie Akpu. Meanwhile, the Udo Ekwulu was planted at the present site of Ndekwulu Ozubulu, serving as a protective symbol to ward off potential threats from Ubulu Uku.
Growth and Development of Ozubulu: After settling in their new home, Ozubulu had to defend its sovereignty and existence against neighboring towns like Oraifite, Ihembosi, Nnewi, and Atani. Following these challenges, Ozubulu strengthened its roots and established a thriving trade network with riverine communities such as Ogbaru, Osuche, Oko Ogbede, and Oko Oma. Their commerce flourished with exchanges of foodstuffs, guns, and European wine for fish and elubo. Over time, a group of people from Amakwa migrated to Neni, becoming known as Amakwa Neni, a kingdred renowned for producing illustrious people such as celebrated Professional Wrestler, Michael Okpala (Power Mike). Additionally, a group from Inyaba Umudim in Nnewi migrated to Ozubulu and settled in what is now known as Inyaba Egbema.
Note: settler migrants in Ozubulu are Oraeri, Arochukwu people, etc.
Masquerades
These are list of main masquerades in Ozubulu:
a. Akpa
b. Epedike
c. Ebuzo eme
d. Nwansi
e. Odogwu Nganga
f. Okpata
g. Ojionu
h. Ozoegbunu
i. Oche mmuo
Traditional Ruler As at 2025:
HRH Obi Igwe Fidelis Nnamdi Oruche
(Eze Ugodinibi, Okeife II).
HRH Obi Igwe Fidelis Nnamdi OrucheChristian Missionaries:
At the earliest of the 20th century, Christian missions arrived in Ozubulu, bringing with them the influences of Western civilization and the Christian faith. Chief Edward Nnubia Anadu, a Paramount Chief with a British Colonial mandate, played a pivotal role in introducing Christianity to Ozubulu. In 1905, Catechist Enekebe from Obosi was dispatched by the Church Missionary Society (CMS) to Ozubulu. He utilized Chief Edward Egotanwa Nnubia's living room to teach catechism, and eventually, a church was established at the site now occupied by St. Matthew's Anglican Church. The first converts to be baptized were Chief Edward Nnubia Anadu, Mr. James Echendu, Maduabum, Theophilus Okoloama, Paul Anowai, Aron Iiona Chukwuka, and others. Later, St. Matthew's School was founded in Kalamimi, Egbema Ozubulu.
In 1906, Reverend Father Cluny, a Catholic Priest from France, led by Reverend Father Victor Duhaze, collaborated with Chief Odenigbo Ezeani of Eziora to establish a Catholic church in Eziora Ozubulu. This was followed by the opening of a school in 1909. The mission station flourished, eventually growing into a parish that extended its reach across the Onitsha-Owerri vicariate. Notably, it produced dedicated teachers, affectionately known as Osuofia, who taught in the Igbo heartland. Similarly, the CMS produced esteemed educators, including the venerable Archdeacon B.C.E. Nwosu. The schools founded and managed by Christian missionaries nurtured individuals of exceptional character and leadership, who made significant contributions to both the church and society.
Today, Ozubulu's sons and daughters are spread across Nigeria and beyond, holding esteemed positions in various fields as distinguished luminaries and celebrities. Notable leaders in Nigerian civil society and public administration, such as Chief Jerome Udoji; dedicated educators like Hon. Vincent Iketuonye, founder of Zixton Primary and Grammar Schools; and Pa Cosmos Iwuchukwu, founder of Ozubulu Boys' Secondary School, have made lasting impacts. Additionally, innovators like Dr. Ben Nwosu, who designed the formidable Ogbunigwe missile deployed by the Biafrans during the Nigerian Civil War, showcase the ingenuity and talent that Ozubulu has produced.
Today, Ozubulu is blessed with numerous primary and secondary schools, the Ozubulu Joint Hospital - a testament to community-driven initiative, as well as several private hospitals, a final-year seminary, a monastery, an official post office, a customary court, a magistrate court, five convents, two brother fraternities, police headquarters, and a community bank. One notable aspect of Ozubulu is that, regardless of where its people reside, they remain deeply connected to the spirit and essence of their community's affectionate names. Ozed or Anakpu, as we fondly call our town, stays close to our hearts and minds. The name Anakpu, meaning the land of the silk cotton tree, originates from the legendary stories of our ancestors' remarkable crossing of the River Niger during their migration from Ubulu Ukwu.
Economic and Social Development of Ozubulu:
The silk cotton tree and various other economic crops thrive in Ozubulu, thanks to its rich and fertile soil. Ozubulu has earned the distinction of being the food basket of Ekwusigo Local Government. The town is blessed with several rivers, including the Ulasi, Eze, and Oji, which flow through Ozubulu and eventually empty into the River Niger. Additionally, Ozubulu is home to natural spring water streams at Iyi-Egbu-Oma and Akpata. The town boasts significant deposits of kaolin, a soft clay essential for manufacturing china and porcelain. Ozubulu is also vibrant with social and youth clubs that have greatly contributed to the town's development. Notable among these are the Ozubulu Youth Organization (OYO), which spearheaded development initiatives in the 1950s and 1960s, resulting in the establishment of the Joint Hospital; the Ozubulu Coral Party, known for building the iconic Ozubulu Hall in Onitsha; the Brothers Club, which constructed a hall in Ugwuolie; the Udoka Social Club, which built and donated the post office to the community; and more recently, Club De-Link and the Ozubulu Development Union (ODU), which has continued the legacy of OYO, driving various development projects in Ozubulu.
Central Inn Ozubulu played a significant role in the town's social development. Before the civil war, modern amenities began to shape the social and cultural landscape of Ozubulu. The Central Inn, founded by Chief Christopher Ndiukwuegbunam Umunnakwe Echendu, became the go-to hub. Equipped with a Lister industrial generator for reliable power, the Inn was more than just a gathering spot where people relaxed with music, food, and cold drinks; it was a cultural hub that hosted iconic "Boxing Day" celebrations. Every December 26th, adults and young adults in Ozubulu would come together for events featuring boxing and other contests. Legendary figures like Paul Nwosu (The Wolf), Mumeh, and Young Super Blow (Chuka Uzokwe) thrilled the audience with their skills. Given that a library project proposed over a decade ago didn't come to fruition, we hope the Ozubulu Development Union (ODU) will continue to drive meaningful projects, leaving a lasting impact like the ones achieved by the Ozubulu Youth Organization (OYO) and Udoka Social Club. We pray that the new leadership will be inspired to revive and actualize this unifying project. We give thanks for Ozubulu and look forward to more development and progress.
Ozubulu indigenes thrive in various occupations, with farming and trading being the most prominent:
- Farming: The town's fertile soil and favorable climate foster a flourishing agricultural sector, where yams, cassava, vegetables, and other crops are cultivated.
- Trading: Ozubulu residents engage in commerce, particularly of foodstuffs and other essential goods, owing to its strategic location and thriving market days.
Notable individuals from Ozubulu who have made their mark in various fields include:
1. Zubby Michael: a renowned Nollywood actor and movie producer
Azubuike Michael Egwu (Zubby Michael)2. Bishop Aloysius Ikegwuonu: a businessman and philanthropist who has contributed immensely to Ozubulu's development through education, infrastructure, and healthcare.
Chief Aloysius Ikegwuonu (Bishop Ozubulu)3. Chief Jerome Udoji: a distinguished lawyer, economist, and philanthropist known for his contributions to the development of Nigeria.
Chief. Jerome UdojiVillages in Ozubulu include:
I. Ama-kwa (piece of land where first settlement of migrants from Ubulu, group led by Akwa progenitor settled)
II. Egbema
III. Ezi-ora (Road to Ora's abode)
IV. Nza
Names of Kindreds:
Kindreds within each village include the following:
I. Amakwa:
- Umuumunna
- Oyabumohi
- Ezi-Amakwa
- Umudezim
- Umuowelle
- Umueze na Amanhike
- Umuezekwe
- Ofufe
- Umuotutu
- Okwutu
- Umuomukwe
II. Egbema:
- Uruezi
- Uruokpala
- Uruokwe
- Iyaba
- Uruabiam
III. Eziora:
- Ezeanunwa
- Ezenwelike
- Ezehinne
- Umuanyioha
- Akwa
- Enugwu Ozubulu
- Ubahu
- Umuanyiegbu
- Umuenefo
- Ezeonu
- Agbinaodida
IV. Nza:
- Urueze
- Uruaguma
- Ukpuno
- Obiofia
- Nnebuigbo
- Urunkpeneke
Names of Deities
The revered deities of Ozubulu are:
- Isi-Ana Ozubulu
- Akpu Ozubulu
- Udo Ndi Ekwuli Ozubulu
- Eze Ozubulu
- Ogwugwu Ezeagba
- Ogwugwu Akpata
Names of Waterways
The rivers and streams that flow through Ozubulu include:
- Mmili Ulasi Agbo Ogidi
- Mmili Eze
- Mmili Akpata
- Mmili Ogui
- Mmili Ubu
- Iyi-Egbu-oma
Main Market Days
The traditional market days in Ozubulu are:
- Eke: No specific market association in Ozubulu
- Orie: Olie Akpu market in Amakwa
- Nkwo: Nkwo Obodoumele (Egbema), Nkwo Obialigbo (Eziora)
- Afo: Afo Ilo (Nza)
NB:- All market days, with the exception of 'Eke', are tied to specific markets where the entire Ozubulu community comes together.
Communal Taboos:
The community observes several taboos, including:
1. Protecting Sacred Animals: Harming or killing Eke Pythons, revered as messengers or spirit animals of the Earth goddess Ana.
2. Respecting Stream Traditions: Fetching water from specific streams on certain market days, like Iyi-Egbu-oma on Eke market day, is prohibited.
3. Reverence for Sacred Trees: Plucking fruits from revered trees, such as the Udala tree, is not allowed.
4. Animal Welfare: Allowing hens to lay eggs in the open is forbidden; if this occurs, the hen is immediately stoned to death.
5. Strict Prohibitions: Rape, murder, and land theft are strictly forbidden in the community.
6. Women's Roles: Women climbing or plucking from sacred trees like the Kolanut tree and Akwu Palm trees is taboo.
7. Family and Marriage: Incest is prohibited beyond immediate family, extending to intra-village marriages due to shared ancestry.
Major Festivals:
Ozubulu celebrates several significant festivals, including:
1. Iri-ji: Typically observed in mid-September.
2. Ime Agwu: The timing is determined by the community.
3. Ima Mmonwu: Usually held in December or early January.
4. Okaika: A sacred period of purity lasting several weeks to a month, during which animal sacrifices and bloodshed are strictly prohibited.
Controversies:
August 6th, 2017 was a dark day in Ozubulu's history, now known as the Ozubulu Massacre. On that fateful Sunday, St. Philips Catholic Church at Ofufe Amakwa fell victim to a gunman, claiming the lives of thirteen worshipers, including women and children.
The names of the 13 victims of the Ozubulu Massacre were:
- Anthonia Ufondu
- Anulika Obunadike
- Uchenna Obunadike
- Hyacinth Oramadike
- Florence Nweke
- Cyprian Ikegwuonu
- Cecilia Ewin
- Rose Okoye
- Oluchukwu Uhelu
- Eunice Akanigbo
- Victoria Uzokwe
- Christiana Igbeja
- Pauline Udeze
List of schools in Ozubulu:
Primary Schools in Ozubulu:
1. Marcelinna Udorji Nursery and Primary School
2. Eziora Ozubulu Primary School
3. Peculiar Group Of School Ozubulu
4. Uruokwe Central School, Egbema Ozubulu
5. Eziora Primary School
6. Amakwa Central School, Ozubulu
7. Ukunu Central School
8. Zixton Primary Schools
9. Nza Primary School
10. Seat of Wisdom Primary Schools
11. Archdeacon Nwosu Memorial Primary School
12. Unity Model Primary School
13. St Philip Academy Nursery and Primary School, Amakwa
Secondary Schools in Ozubulu:
1. St. Michael's Boys' Secondary School Eziora Ozubulu
2. Catholic Girls Secondary School, Ozubulu
3. Sancta Maria Secondary School Nza Ozubulu
4. Seat of Wisdom Secondary School, Ozubulu
5. Kenneth Pius Community Secondary School Ozubulu
6. Community Secondary School, Amakwa
7. Ezi-agu Secondary School
8. Ozubulu High School
9. St. Peter's Secondary School
10. St Jude's Comprehensive Secondary School
11. Community Secondary School Ozubulu
12. Zixton Secondary School Ozubulu
13. Golden Gate Sec. School Ozubulu
14. Turning Point Sec. School Ozubulu
15. De Great Magrette Sec. School
Tertiaries, Polytechnics and Universities:
1. Adon Vocational and Technical institute Ozubulu Anambra State
2. Pentecost University Ozubulu
Hospitals in Ozubulu:
1. St. Lawrence Hospital - Ugwuorji Road, Ozubulu
2. Evans Specialist Hospital - Egbema, Ozubulu
3. Loyola Hospital - Ozubulu
4. Umueji Hospital - Ozubulu
5. SAX Hospital - Ozubulu
6. Lizzy Memorial Clinic - Ozubulu
7. Ndupu Hospital - Ozubulu
8. Christian Hospital - Ozubulu
9. St. Jude Hospital - Ozubulu
10. Grace, Light and Truth Hospital - St Michael's Road, Eziora Ozubulu
11. Holy Family Hospital - Ihembosi and Nza Ozubulu
12. Chisom Hospital - Umuowelle Village, Ozubulu
13. Odinaka Hospital - Umuokpala Egbema, Ozubulu
14. Recdot Hospital - Ozubulu
15. Okika Hospital - Ozubulu
Hospitality and Hotels:
1. StoneHill Signature Hotel in Ozubulu
Credit: Throwback Times Nigeria
